Set-Based Threat Assessment in Semi-Autonomous Vehicles

Paper in proceeding, 2010

We present a model based threat assessment method for semi-autonomous vehicles. Based on the assumption that information about the surrounding environment is available over a future finite time horizon, we first introduce a set of constraints on the vehicle states, which are satisfied under “safe” driving conditions. Then, we use vehicle and driver mathematical models in order to predict future constraints violation, indicating the possibility of accident or loss of vehicle control. We demonstrate the proposed method in a roadway departure application, and validate it through experimental data.