Self-Driving Vehicle Speed Trajectory Optimization for Punctual Arrival
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current self-driving motor vehicle technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, are unable to achieve the most punctual possible arrival at a prescribed destination.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating a self-driving motor vehicle that determines a speed trajectory by ascertaining multiple candidate trajectories, computing an unpunctuality characteristic value for each, and selecting the trajectory with the smallest divergence from a desired time of arrival, using navigation systems and planning devices to ensure timely arrival.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If multiple candidate speed trajectories are computed and evaluated, then the punctuality of arrival is improved, but the computation time and memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the speed trajectory computation into multiple candidate trajectories (first, second, third, etc.) with different characteristics. Each candidate trajectory is evaluated separately using unpunctuality characteristic values, allowing the system to compare and select the optimal trajectory without computing all possible variations, thus reducing overall computational complexity while maintaining punctuality optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent computes multiple candidate speed trajectories (excessive action) rather than a single trajectory, evaluating each with unpunctuality characteristic values. This approach ensures that the most punctual arrival is achieved by selecting from multiple pre-computed options, rather than relying on iterative optimization of a single trajectory which would require more computation time during execution.
2Measurement precision
If multiple candidate speed trajectories are evaluated with unpunctuality characteristic values, then the arrival time precision is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary computation of multiple candidate speed trajectories and their unpunctuality characteristic values before the vehicle begins its journey. This allows the optimal trajectory to be predetermined and stored, eliminating the need for real-time computation during driving. The energy-intensive calculations are performed in advance when the vehicle is stationary, thus achieving high arrival time precision without increasing energy consumption during actual operation.
3Loss of time
If the speed trajectory is optimized for punctual arrival, then the loss of time is reduced, but the comfort criteria may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent generates multiple candidate speed trajectories with different parameter characteristics (e.g., different acceleration profiles, speed variations). Each candidate trajectory is evaluated using unpunctuality characteristic values that quantify both time deviation and comfort deviations. By comparing multiple trajectories with varied parameters, the system selects the optimal balance between punctuality and comfort, rather than optimizing for time alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses unpunctuality characteristic values as a feedback mechanism to evaluate each candidate speed trajectory. These characteristic values incorporate both time-to-destination metrics and comfort deviation metrics. The feedback from evaluating multiple candidates allows the system to iteratively select the trajectory that best satisfies both punctuality requirements and comfort criteria, resolving the contradiction between speed optimization and comfort maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a self-driving motor vehicle. A prescribed starting location and a prescribed destination are used to ascertain a driving route. A speed trajectory is determined for the ascertained driving route and the motor vehicle drives along the driving route independently on the basis of the determined speed trajectory. The determination of the speed trajectory includes the following method steps: (i) ascertainment of multiple candidate speed trajectories for the ascertained driving route, (ii) computation of an unpunctuality characteristic value for each of the ascertained candidate speed trajectories, wherein the unpunctuality characteristic value is a measure of a divergence from a prescribed desired time of arrival at the destination, and (iii) selection of that candidate speed trajectory having the unpunctuality characteristic value with the smallest magnitude.