Robust method for detecting traffic signals and their associated states
US9145140B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 2012 |
| Grant date | Sep 29, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60W2556/50
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and devices for detecting traffic signals and their associated states are disclosed. In one embodiment, an example method includes a scanning a target area using one or more sensors of a vehicle to obtain target area information. The vehicle may be configured to operate in an autonomous mode, and the target area may be a type of area where traffic signals are typically located. The method may also include detecting a traffic signal in the target area information, determining a location of the traffic signal, and determining a state of the traffic signal. Also, a confidence in the traffic signal may be determined. For example, the location of the traffic signal may be compared to known locations of traffic signals. Based on the state of the traffic signal and the confidence in the traffic signal, the vehicle may be controlled in the autonomous mode.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.