Vehicle Takeover Control Using Virtual Markings and Buffer Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in safely and timely transferring control from automated vehicles to human operators due to insufficient operator attentiveness and inadequate preparation for takeovers, particularly in complex or inclement conditions, leading to safety and comfort issues.
Innovation Solution
An estimation system predicts an endpoint for automated driving and uses virtual markings and a buffer zone to prepare operators for takeovers, providing visual and tactile feedback to ensure a smooth transition, with the vehicle automatically stopping if manual control is insufficient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the system uses sensor data and risk assessment to determine takeover timing, then safety is improved, but the operator may not be sufficiently prepared leading to untimely takeovers
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by providing advance notice to the operator before the actual takeover is needed. Virtual markings are displayed in the operator's field of view to indicate upcoming takeover zones, and alerts are issued beforehand to prepare the operator mentally and physically for the transition from automated to manual control, ensuring both safety and adequate preparation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The takeover process is segmented into multiple phases: an advance notice phase where virtual markings indicate upcoming takeover zones, an alert phase where the system notifies the operator, and a final takeover phase. This segmentation allows the operator to progressively prepare for the transition rather than being surprised by an abrupt control transfer.
2Ease of operation
If the system provides advance notice of takeover, then operator preparation is improved, but the transition may become less timely when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the timing and intensity of takeover notifications based on the operator's response. If the operator shows signs of inattention or delays in responding to advance notices, the system can intensify alerts or adjust the timing of the actual takeover request, ensuring that adequate preparation is provided without compromising the ultimate timeliness of the control transfer.
3Loss of information
If the system uses virtual markings to indicate takeover zones, then operator situational awareness is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Virtual markings serve as an intermediary between the automated driving system and the operator. Rather than directly commanding the operator to take over, the system uses visual indicators in the operator's field of view to communicate upcoming takeover zones and contextual information, making the system's intentions clearer without requiring complex direct communication interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to transferring automatic control of a vehicle through emulating virtual markings and estimating a buffer zone. In one embodiment, a method includes estimating a position for a takeover by a vehicle that is directly controlling driving maneuvers. The method also includes predicting an automated region from a transition time and the position for the takeover by an operator. The method also includes generating virtual markings for the takeover using the automated region and the position, wherein the virtual markings exist within the automated region and the position indicates an area for manual feedback to the vehicle.