Vehicle Sensor Control by Traffic Situation for Lower Power Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles with automated driving functions face increased power consumption due to surround sensors, which reduces the cruising range of electrically powered vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A method using a control device to evaluate sensor data and activate or deactivate sensors based on the traffic situation, employing an intelligent algorithm, such as a neural network, to manage power usage by switching sensors on or off as needed, thereby reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If surround sensors are continuously activated for automated driving functions, then detection reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning sensor operation from a static continuous activation state to a dynamic state where sensors are selectively activated or deactivated based on real-time traffic situation assessment. The control device dynamically adjusts sensor operational status according to detected traffic conditions, ensuring reliable detection when needed while conserving energy during low-risk periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the operational state parameter of sensors based on traffic situation parameters. When traffic situation parameters indicate low risk or simple conditions, the sensor operational state is changed from active to deactivated, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining detection reliability when complex traffic situations are detected.
2Extent of automation
If more surround sensors are deployed for fully automated driving, then automation capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by activating only the necessary subset of surround sensors based on the specific traffic situation rather than keeping all sensors continuously active. The control device assesses the traffic situation and selectively activates sensors whose detection capabilities are relevant to the current conditions, thereby maintaining full automation capability when needed while reducing overall power consumption through partial sensor activation.
3Loss of energy
If sensors are deactivated to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but detection coverage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring traffic situation parameters and using this information to control sensor activation states. The control device receives feedback from traffic situation assessment and adjusts sensor operational status accordingly, ensuring that detection coverage is maintained at adequate levels while optimizing energy efficiency. This closed-loop control prevents detection coverage from being compromised while achieving energy savings.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling sensors or components of a vehicle, using a control device. Measurement data of at least one sensor of the vehicle being received and evaluated. A traffic situation, in which the vehicle finds itself, is ascertained by evaluating the measurement data; and the at least one sensor and/or at least one component of the vehicle being activated, deactivated and/or set to a standby mode as a function of the ascertained traffic situation. A control device and a computer program are also described.