VR Driver Training System for Knowledge Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional driver training programs are inefficient due to a gap between classroom learning and on-road practice, limited exposure to diverse driving scenarios, and high costs associated with instructor-led training, which can lead to incomplete knowledge transfer and increased crash risks, especially for young drivers.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method and system using a head-mounted virtual reality device to simulate real-life driving conditions, allowing users to practice driving skills immediately after learning them, with the ability to record and analyze performance data to assess competency and adapt the simulation based on progress, thereby reducing the need for centralized training facilities and lowering costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional two-part driver training format (classroom learning followed by on-road test) is used, then driving rules and skills can be taught, but knowledge transfer is incomplete due to time gap between learning and practice

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveknowledge transfer completenessVSAvoidtime gap between classroom training and on-road test
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines classroom learning and on-road practice into a single integrated virtual reality training session. The instructional lesson and driving scenario are merged into one continuous experience, eliminating the time gap between learning and practice that exists in conventional two-part training formats.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a virtual reality simulation as an intermediary between classroom learning and on-road testing. This intermediary environment allows students to practice driving skills in a controlled virtual setting that bridges the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If instructor-led on-road training is provided, then real-life driving skills can be practiced, but training costs are high due to instructor salaries and vehicle maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepractical driving skill acquisitionVSAvoidtraining cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the real driving environment that can be replicated indefinitely without additional costs. Instead of requiring physical vehicles and instructors for each training session, a digital reproduction of driving scenarios provides the same training value at minimal marginal cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The virtual reality training system enables students to practice driving skills independently without requiring constant instructor supervision. The automated simulation provides immediate feedback and allows unlimited practice sessions, making the training process self-directed and cost-effective.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of energy

If limited on-road practice time is allocated, then training costs are reduced, but exposure to diverse driving scenarios is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining costVSAvoidexposure to diverse driving scenarios
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The virtual reality training system dynamically adapts the driving scenarios based on student performance and progress. The simulation can adjust difficulty levels, introduce varying weather conditions, traffic patterns, and hazard types, providing diverse training experiences that would be logistically difficult to arrange in real-world settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The virtual training platform serves multiple training functions within a single system. It can simulate various vehicle types, road conditions, weather scenarios, and hazard conditions that would otherwise require multiple different physical training vehicles and locations, providing universal training capability at fixed cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If conventional video monitor simulators are used, then some driving scenarios can be simulated, but real-life driving conditions are not effectively replicated due to limited field of view

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving scenario simulation capabilityVSAvoidreal-life condition replication accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional video monitor display to immersive three-dimensional virtual reality environment. By incorporating head-mounted displays and spatial audio, the system adds depth and immersion dimensions that better replicate the sensory experience of actual driving, significantly improving field of view and environmental realism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11501657B2Systems and methods for virtual reality based driver training
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 STATE FARM MUTAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANY
  • US11501657B2 patent drawing
  • US11501657B2 patent drawing
  • US11501657B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for providing driver training in a virtual reality environment are disclosed. According to some aspects, an appropriate virtual reality driving simulation may be determined based on one or more input parameters provided by a user. The virtual reality driving simulation may include: (i) an instructional lesson, to be rendered in virtual reality, for teaching driving-related rules and/or skills to a user, and (ii) a driving scenario, to be rendered in virtual reality, for the user to practice the driving-related rules and/or skills taught by the instructional lesson. While the virtual reality driving simulation is rendered, user performance data may be recorded. Based on an analysis of the user performance data, a driving competency score and/or user feedback may be determined.