Patent ID: 12187202

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments, one or more example(s) of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the embodiments, not limitation of the present disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that aspects of the present disclosure cover such modifications and variations.

Example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an improved autonomous vehicle infrastructure that includes an adjustable partition wall, which increases the vehicle's ability to provide vehicle services. For instance, an autonomous vehicle can be utilized to perform vehicle services such as, for example, transportation services (e.g., rideshare services). The vehicle service(s) can be offered (e.g., via a mobile software application, website, etc.) to users by a service entity (e.g., a company that offers and/or coordinates the provision of vehicle services to users). In the event that a user requests a vehicle service, a computing system of the associated service entity can send a service assignment to an autonomous vehicle. The service assignment can include a request for the vehicle to perform the vehicle service for the user and a variety of information about the requested vehicle service including, for example, the number of user(s) and/or item(s) to be transported in the autonomous vehicle. In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle may obtain a plurality of service assignments and pool the assignments in order to concurrently provide vehicle services (e.g., concurrently transport two separate groups of users).

The technology of the present disclosure can improve the ability of the autonomous vehicle to accommodate a variety of service assignments. For instance, the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle can include a partition wall that can be automatically adjusted based on the number of user(s) and/or item(s) that are to be transported within the autonomous vehicle. The partition wall can provide a physical barrier between different compartments of the vehicle's cabin. The partition wall can be adjusted in real-time by the vehicle's onboard computing system in order to adjust the size of the different compartments. For example, in the event that four users and two small items (e.g., two backpacks, etc.) are to be transported in the autonomous vehicle, the partition wall can be adjusted so that there are four seats within a first compartment intended for the users and enough space in a second compartment intended for storing the two items. In another example, in the event that two different groups of users are to ride in the autonomous vehicle (e.g., for vehicle service pooling), the partition wall can be adjusted such that there are at least two separate compartments within the autonomous vehicle, one for each of the groups. Such adjustments can be made before the user(s)/item(s) enter the autonomous vehicle and without the vehicle traveling to a service depot (e.g., for adjustment by a technician). In this way, the incorporation of the automatically adjustable partition wall can improve the flexibility of the vehicle's infrastructure to accommodate a variety of service requests without the need for the autonomous vehicle to travel to a service depot for re-configuration.

More particularly, an autonomous vehicle (e.g., ground-based vehicle, etc.) can include various systems and devices configured to control the operation of the vehicle. For example, an autonomous vehicle can include an onboard vehicle computing system (e.g., located on or within the autonomous vehicle) for operating the autonomous vehicle. The vehicle computing system can obtain sensor data from sensor(s) onboard the vehicle (e.g., cameras, LIDAR, RADAR, etc.), attempt to comprehend the vehicle's surrounding environment by performing various processing techniques on the sensor data, and generate an appropriate motion plan through the vehicle's surrounding environment. Moreover, an autonomous vehicle can include a communications system that can allow the autonomous vehicle to communicate with one or more computing systems that are remote from the vehicle, as further described herein.

An autonomous vehicle can perform vehicle services for one or more service entities. A service entity can be associated with the provision of one or more vehicle services. For example, a service entity can be an individual, a group of individuals, a company, a group of companies (e.g., affiliated entities), and/or another type of entity that offers and/or coordinates the performance of one or more vehicle services to one or more users. For example, a service entity can offer vehicle service(s) to users via one or more software applications (e.g., on a user computing device), via a website, and/or via other types of interfaces that allow a user to request a vehicle service. As described herein, the vehicle services can include transportation services (e.g., by which the vehicle transports user(s) from one location to another), delivery services (e.g., by which a vehicle delivers item(s) to a requested destination location), courier services (e.g., by which a vehicle retrieves item(s) from a requested origin location and delivers the item to a requested destination location), and/or other types of services. The service entity can utilize an operations computing system to coordinate the provision of vehicle service(s) associated with the service entity.

A user can provide (e.g., via a user device) a request for a vehicle service to an operations computing system associated with the service entity. The request can indicate the type of vehicle service that the user desires (e.g., a transportation service, a delivery service, a courier service, etc.), a number of user(s) to be transported, a number and/or other characteristics (e.g., size, shape, type, etc.) of item(s) to be transported, one or more locations (e.g., an origin location, a destination location, etc.), timing constraints (e.g., pick-up time, drop-off time, deadlines, etc.), service parameters (e.g., a need for handicap access, a need for trunk space, etc.), and/or other information. The operations computing system of the service entity can process the request and identify one or more autonomous vehicles that may be able to perform the requested vehicle services for the user. The operations computing system can send a service assignment indicative of the requested vehicle services to an autonomous vehicle (e.g., via the service entity's computing platform).

In some implementations, the vehicle computing system can pool service assignments to concurrently perform vehicle services. For instance, an autonomous vehicle can accept a service assignment to transport a first group of user(s) (and any associated item(s)) to a destination location. The vehicle computing system can determine whether the autonomous vehicle may be available to perform another vehicle service concurrently with that transportation service. For example, based on the vehicle's available capacity and/or other data (e.g., pick-up location, delivery location, potential travel route, etc.), the autonomous vehicle can determine whether it can accept another service assignment. If so, the autonomous vehicle can accept another service assignment such as, for example, an assignment to transport a second group of user(s) (and any associated item(s)) to another destination location.

The technology of the present disclosure can improve an autonomous vehicle's ability to accommodate for a variety of service assignments as well as potential vehicle service pooling through the use of an automatically adjustable partition wall. For instance, the autonomous vehicle can include a main body. The main body of the vehicle can include walls, a floor, and a ceiling. The walls, the floor, and the ceiling can define an interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle. The autonomous vehicle can include a partition wall that is movable within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle. The partition wall can move substantially along a longitudinal direction (e.g., extending through the front and the rear of the vehicle). For instance, the partition wall can be movably connected to rails, wheels, magnets, and/or other mechanism(s) that allow the partition wall to slide, glide, slip, and/or otherwise move between multiple positions within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle (e.g., a first position, a second position, a third position, etc.) along a path that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction. The partition wall can substantially extend between the floor and the ceiling in a direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. For example, the partition wall can extend in a vertical direction (e.g., extending through the top and the bottom of the vehicle) and a traverse direction (e.g., extending through the left and the right sides of the vehicle). Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the partition wall can move in the traverse and/or vertical direction.

The partition wall can be communicatively connected to a wall control system that is configured to automatically control the movement of the partition wall. For instance, the wall control system can be communicatively connected to a mechanical and/or electrical control device (e.g., a motor, servo, air compressor, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or some other mechanical control device) that can physically move the partition wall. In this way, the partition wall can be automatically adjusted onboard the autonomous vehicle without human user interaction and without the vehicle going to a service depot (e.g., to allow a technician to adjust the interior configuration of the vehicle).

The partition wall can help create and/or separate different compartments within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle. For instance, the interior cabin can include at least a first compartment and a second compartment. In some implementations, one of the compartments can be utilized for transporting riders and one of the compartments can be utilized for transporting items. In some implementations, the compartments can be used to transport separate groups of users (e.g., a first group of user(s) in the first compartment, a second group of user(s) in the second compartment, etc.) or to transport separate groups of items (e.g., a first group of item(s) in the first compartment, a second group of item(s) in the second compartment, etc.). The partition wall can include a first side and a second side that is opposite the first side. The first side can at least partially define the first compartment of the interior cabin and the second side can at least partially define the second compartment of the interior cabin. This can allow the partition wall to provide a physical barrier between the compartments.

The autonomous vehicle can include one or more seats located within the interior of the autonomous vehicle. The seat(s) can be retractable so that the autonomous vehicle can provide various seating and/or storage configurations within the interior cabin. For instance, the seat(s) can be retractable into the floor of the autonomous vehicle such that the seat(s) are not exposed within the interior cabin. For example, the seat(s) can move from an extended position where the seat(s) are exposed in the interior cabin to a stowed position in a floor storage compartment that is located underneath the floor of the autonomous vehicle, and vice versa. In some implementations, the seat(s) can be movably coupled to the partition wall (e.g., via rail(s), wheel(s), magnet(s), etc.) so that the seat(s) can move in the vertical direction (e.g., from the extended position to the stowed position). In some implementations, the seat(s) can be movably coupled to the floor (e.g., via mechanical arm(s), rail(s), adjustable truss(es), etc.) so that the seats can move from the extended position to the stowed position, and vice verse. The seat(s) can be communicatively coupled to a seat control system that is configured to automatically adjust the position of the seat(s). The seat control system can be connected to a mechanical and/or electrical control device (e.g., a motor, servo, air compressor, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or some other mechanical control device) that can physically move the seat(s). One or more portions of the wall control system and the seat control system can be implemented in the same system or separate from one another.

In some implementations, the seat(s) can be retractable to allow for the movement of the partition wall within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle. For instance, as described herein, the partition wall can be movable between a first position and a second position along a path (e.g., defined by a mechanical rail system). While in the extended position, the seat(s) may prevent the partition wall from moving between the first and second position(s) (e.g., by physically blocking the wall's path). Accordingly, the seat(s) can be retracted into the stowed position so that the partition wall is able to move along the path between the first and second position(s).

In some implementations, the partition wall can include a visual output device. The visual output device can include a display device such as, for example, smart glass technology, a display screen, CRT, LCD, plasma screen, touch screen, TV, projector, other types of display devices and/or a combination thereof. The visual output device can be configured to display various information for a user that is onboard the autonomous vehicle. For example, the display device can present a user interface that is indicative of the location of the autonomous vehicle within a geographic area, proximity of the autonomous vehicle to a destination location, media content (e.g., movies, shows, games, etc.), information associated with a destination location (e.g., weather information, flight information, etc.), traffic information, event information, and/or any other information. In some implementations, the vehicle computing system can control what content is displayed via the visual output device. The partition wall can also, or alternatively, include other output devices (e.g., audio output devices, etc.).

The vehicle computing system of the autonomous vehicle can be configured to automatically adjust the partition wall and/or the seat(s) to accommodate for various service assignment(s). For instance, the vehicle computing system can obtain data indicative of one or more service assignments associated with the autonomous vehicle. As described herein, the service assignment(s) can be indicative of a variety of information associated with the requested vehicle service. The vehicle computing system can determine a position of the partition wall within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the service assignment(s) (e.g., the information indicated therein). For instance, the vehicle computing system can process the data indicative of the service assignment(s) to determine the associated service parameters (e.g., number of user(s)/item(s), special accommodations, etc.). The vehicle computing system can access a data structure (e.g., table, list, etc.) that is indicative of various pre-determined wall positions corresponding to various service assignment parameters. The data structure can include, for example, wall position data that indicates where the partition wall should be positioned for a certain number of user(s), a certain number/type of item(s), certain special parameters (e.g., wheel chair accommodations), etc. The vehicle computing system can determine the position of the partition wall based at least in part on the parameters associated with the service assignment and the wall position data by traversing the data structure to find the appropriate wall position given the particular service assignment parameters.

Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle computing system can determine a seat adjustment of the seat(s) within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the service assignment(s). For example, the vehicle computing system can access a data structure that is indicative of various pre-determined seat arrangements corresponding to various service assignment parameters. The data structure can include, for example, seat arrangement data that indicates how the seat(s) should be arranged for a certain number of user(s), a certain number/type of item(s), certain special parameters (e.g., wheel chair accommodations), etc. The vehicle computing system can determine the seat adjustment based at least in part on the parameters specified in the service assignment and the seat arrangement data by traversing the data structure to find the seat arrangement given the service assignment parameters.

The vehicle computing system can initiate the automatic adjustment of the partition wall and/or the seat(s) within the vehicle's interior cabin. By way of example, the service assignment can be indicative of a number of users (e.g., 4 users) and/or items (e.g., 2 backpacks, etc.) to be transported in the autonomous vehicle. The vehicle computing system can determine that the partition wall should be adjusted to a position such that a first compartment has enough space to accommodate the number of user(s) and that a second compartment has enough space to store the items. Moreover, the vehicle computing system can determine a seat adjustment based on the service assignment. For instance, the vehicle computing system can determine how the many seats are needed to accommodate the users (e.g., at least 2 seats for the 2 users) and/or whether any of the seats need to be retracted into a floor of the main body of the vehicle (e.g., to allow for movement of the partition wall, to allow for more storage space in the second compartment, etc.). In another example, the service assignment can indicate that a user with a wheel chair is to be transported by the autonomous vehicle. The vehicle computing system can determine a position for the partition wall within the interior cabin and/or a seat adjustment (e.g., to retract seat(s) into the floor, etc.) such that a first compartment has enough space to accommodate the user's wheel chair. The vehicle computing system can communicate signals (e.g., to the wall/seat control systems) to initiate an adjustment of the position of the wall and/or the seat adjustment. The signals can be indicative of the position to which the wall is to be adjusted and/or the seat adjustment. The wall and/or seat control system(s) can automatically adjust the partition wall and the seat(s) accordingly. When the partition wall reaches the determined position the partition wall can be locked into position via a locking system (e.g., a lock pin, teeth, grooves, tabs, slots, latching mechanisms, etc.) configured to temporarily secure the partition wall in place. Similar such mechanisms can be utilized for securing the seat(s) in a particular position.

In some implementations, the vehicle computing system can adjust the partition wall and/or seat(s) based on a plurality of service assignments. For instance, the vehicle computing system can obtain data indicative of a first service assignment associated with a first vehicle service. This can include, for example, a request to transport a first group of users to a first destination location (e.g., a restaurant). The vehicle computing system can determine that the autonomous vehicle has enough capacity to accept another service assignment (e.g., to pool vehicle services). The vehicle computing system can obtain data indicative of a second service assignment associated with a second vehicle service. This can include, for example, a request to transport a second group of users to a second destination location (e.g., a stadium). The vehicle computing system can determine a position of the partition wall and/or a seat adjustment of the seat(s) based at least in part on the first service assignment and the second service assignment such that the autonomous vehicle is able to perform the first vehicle service concurrently with the second vehicle service. For example, the vehicle computing system can determine a position of the partition wall (and/or a seat adjustment) that allows a first compartment to accommodate the first group of users and a second compartment to accommodate the second group of users such that the first and second groups can ride within the autonomous vehicle at the same time. The vehicle computing system can communicate signals to adjust the partition wall and/or the seats according to the determined wall position and/or seat adjustment.

The vehicle computing system can cause the autonomous vehicle to initiate a motion control to travel to a location to pick-up user(s) and/or item(s). Before and/or while the autonomous vehicle is en route to the location, the vehicle computing system can adjust the partition wall and/or seat(s), as described herein. The adjustment of the partition wall and/or the seat adjustment can be completed before the autonomous vehicle arrives at the location. In this way, the autonomous vehicle can re-configure the vehicle's interior to accommodate the user(s) and/or the item(s) for transportation before the user(s) and/or the item(s) are onboard the autonomous vehicle.

Although example implementations are described herein with respect to the autonomous vehicle having one partition wall, this is not meant to be limiting. An autonomous vehicle can have a plurality of partition walls within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle. The plurality of partition walls can help to create/define more than two compartments within the autonomous vehicle (e.g., a first compartment for user(s), a second compartment for user(s), a third compartment for item(s), etc.).

The systems and methods described herein provide a number of technical effects and benefits. For instance, the technology of the present disclosure provides an autonomous vehicle with a more flexible infrastructure that can help the vehicle better accommodate for a variety of service assignments as well as potential pooling of service assignments. This can allow the autonomous vehicle to better preserve its onboard resources (e.g., processing, memory, power, etc.). For instance, when it is not addressing a service assignment/performing a vehicle service, an autonomous vehicle can be in an idle state. However, even in the idle state, an autonomous vehicle can continue to acquire sensor data to remain cognizant of its environment (e.g., whether the vehicle is parked, moving, etc.). This can cause the autonomous vehicle to waste its processing, data storage, and power resources while it is not performing a vehicle service. However, by allowing the autonomous vehicle to re-configure its interior, the autonomous vehicle can accept more (and various types of) service assignments and provide a greater number of vehicle services leading to a reduction in idle time. Accordingly, the autonomous vehicle can more efficiently utilize its onboard computational and power resources to provide vehicle services as opposed to operating in an idle state.

The systems and methods of the present disclosure can provide an improvement to vehicle computing technology, such as autonomous vehicle computing technology. For instance, the systems and methods improve the ability of the autonomous vehicle to re-configure its interior without utilizing its computational and power resources to travel to a service depot. By way of example, a computing system (e.g., a vehicle computing system) can obtain data indicative of one or more service assignments associated with an autonomous vehicle. The computing system can determine a position of a partition wall within an interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the one or more service assignments. The computing system can determine a seat adjustment of one or more seats within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the service assignment. The computing system can communicate signals to initiate an adjustment of the partition wall to the determined position within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle and/or to initiate the seat adjustment of the one or more seats within the interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle. In this way, the autonomous vehicle can automatically adjust its interior in real-time (as the vehicle is deployed) to meet the specific needs of the service assignment(s). This can allow the autonomous vehicle to avoid using its processing, memory, power, etc. resources to travel to a service depot for re-configuration (e.g., by a technician) for each service assignment. Ultimately, the autonomous vehicle can save its resources for more productive uses such as, for example, the provision of vehicle service(s).

With reference now to the FIGS., example embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed in further detail.FIG.1illustrates an example vehicle computing system100according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle computing system100can be associated with an autonomous vehicle105. The vehicle computing system100can be located onboard (e.g., included on and/or within) the autonomous vehicle105.

The autonomous vehicle105incorporating the vehicle computing system100can be various types of vehicles. For instance, the autonomous vehicle105can be a ground-based autonomous vehicle such as an autonomous car, autonomous truck, autonomous bus, etc. The autonomous vehicle105can be an air-based autonomous vehicle (e.g., airplane, helicopter, or other aircraft) or other types of vehicles (e.g., watercraft, etc.). The autonomous vehicle105can drive, navigate, operate, etc. with minimal and/or no interaction from a human operator (e.g., driver). In some implementations, a human operator can be omitted from the autonomous vehicle105(and/or also omitted from remote control of the autonomous vehicle105). In some implementations, a human operator can be included in the autonomous vehicle105.

In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle105can be configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes. The autonomous vehicle105can be configured to operate in a fully autonomous (e.g., self-driving) operating mode in which the autonomous vehicle105is controllable without user input (e.g., can drive and navigate with no input from a human operator present in the autonomous vehicle105and/or remote from the autonomous vehicle105). The autonomous vehicle105can operate in a semi-autonomous operating mode in which the autonomous vehicle105can operate with some input from a human operator present in the autonomous vehicle105(and/or a human operator that is remote from the autonomous vehicle105). The autonomous vehicle105can enter into a manual operating mode in which the autonomous vehicle105is fully controllable by a human operator (e.g., human driver, pilot, etc.) and can be prohibited and/or disabled (e.g., temporary, permanently, etc.) from performing autonomous navigation (e.g., autonomous driving). In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle105can implement vehicle operating assistance technology (e.g., collision mitigation system, power assist steering, etc.) while in the manual operating mode to help assist the human operator of the autonomous vehicle105.

The operating modes of the autonomous vehicle105can be stored in a memory onboard the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the operating modes can be defined by an operating mode data structure (e.g., rule, list, table, etc.) that indicates one or more operating parameters for the autonomous vehicle105, while in the particular operating mode. For example, an operating mode data structure can indicate that the autonomous vehicle105is to autonomously plan its motion when in the fully autonomous operating mode. The vehicle computing system100can access the memory when implementing an operating mode.

The operating mode of the autonomous vehicle105can be adjusted in a variety of manners. For example, the operating mode of the autonomous vehicle105can be selected remotely, off-board the autonomous vehicle105. For example, a remote computing system (e.g., of a vehicle provider and/or service entity associated with the autonomous vehicle105) can communicate data to the autonomous vehicle105instructing the autonomous vehicle105to enter into, exit from, maintain, etc. an operating mode. By way of example, such data can instruct the autonomous vehicle105to enter into the fully autonomous operating mode. In some implementations, the operating mode of the autonomous vehicle105can be set onboard and/or near the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the vehicle computing system100can automatically determine when and where the autonomous vehicle105is to enter, change, maintain, etc. a particular operating mode (e.g., without user input). Additionally, or alternatively, the operating mode of the autonomous vehicle105can be manually selected via one or more interfaces located onboard the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., key switch, button, etc.) and/or associated with a computing device proximate to the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., a tablet operated by authorized personnel located near the autonomous vehicle105). In some implementations, the operating mode of the autonomous vehicle105can be adjusted by manipulating a series of interfaces in a particular order to cause the autonomous vehicle105to enter into a particular operating mode.

The vehicle computing system100can include one or more computing devices located onboard the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the computing device(s) can be located on and/or within the autonomous vehicle105. The computing device(s) can include various components for performing various operations and functions. For instance, the computing device(s) can include one or more processors and one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer readable media (e.g., memory devices, etc.). The one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer readable media can store instructions that when executed by the one or more processors cause the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., its computing system, one or more processors, etc.) to perform operations and functions, such as those described herein for determining a position of a partition wall and/or seats, adjusting the partition wall and/or seats, controlling the autonomous vehicle to perform vehicle service(s), etc.

The autonomous vehicle105can include a communications system120configured to allow the vehicle computing system100(and its computing device(s)) to communicate with other computing devices. The vehicle computing system100can use the communications system120to communicate with one or more computing device(s) that are remote from the autonomous vehicle105over one or more networks (e.g., via one or more wireless signal connections). For example, the communications system120can allow the autonomous vehicle to send and receive data from an operations computing system200of a service entity. In some implementations, the communications system120can allow communication among one or more of the system(s) on-board the autonomous vehicle105. The communications system120can include any suitable components for interfacing with one or more network(s), including, for example, transmitters, receivers, ports, controllers, antennas, and/or other suitable components that can help facilitate communication.

As shown inFIG.1, the autonomous vehicle105can include one or more vehicle sensors125, an autonomy computing system130, one or more vehicle control systems135, and other systems, as described herein. One or more of these systems can be configured to communicate with one another via a communication channel. The communication channel can include one or more data buses (e.g., controller area network (CAN)), on-board diagnostics connector (e.g., OBD-II), and/or a combination of wired and/or wireless communication links. The onboard systems can send and/or receive data, messages, signals, etc. amongst one another via the communication channel.

The vehicle sensor(s)125can be configured to acquire sensor data140. This can include sensor data associated with the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105. For instance, the sensor data140can acquire image and/or other data within a field of view of one or more of the vehicle sensor(s)125. The vehicle sensor(s)125can include a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) system, a Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) system, one or more cameras (e.g., visible spectrum cameras, infrared cameras, etc.), motion sensors, and/or other types of imaging capture devices and/or sensors. The sensor data140can include image data, radar data, LIDAR data, and/or other data acquired by the vehicle sensor(s)125. The autonomous vehicle105can include other sensors configured to acquire data associated with the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the autonomous vehicle105can include inertial measurement unit(s), and/or other sensors.

The autonomous vehicle105can include one or more vehicle sensor(s)125that can be configured to acquire sensor data140associated with interior of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the sensor data140can indicate a configuration of the interior of the autonomous vehicle105. For instance, the sensor data140can indicate the position of one or more partition walls located within the interior of the autonomous vehicle105. In addition, or alternatively, the sensor data140can indicate the position of one or more seats within the interior of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the sensor data140can indicate which side of a partition wall each seat is located.

In some implementations, the sensor data140can be indicative of one or more objects within the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105. The object(s) can include, for example, vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and/or other objects. The object(s) can be located in front of, to the rear of, to the side of the autonomous vehicle105, etc. The sensor data140can be indicative of locations associated with the object(s) within the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105at one or more times. The vehicle sensor(s)125can communicate (e.g., transmit, send, make available, etc.) the sensor data140to the autonomy computing system130.

In addition to the sensor data140, the autonomy computing system130can retrieve or otherwise obtain map data145. The map data145can provide information about the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105. In some implementations, an autonomous vehicle105can obtain detailed map data that provides information regarding: the identity and location of different roadways, road segments, buildings, or other items or objects (e.g., lampposts, crosswalks, curbing, etc.); the location and directions of traffic lanes (e.g., the location and direction of a parking lane, a turning lane, a bicycle lane, or other lanes within a particular roadway or other travel way and/or one or more boundary markings associated therewith); traffic control data (e.g., the location and instructions of signage, traffic lights, or other traffic control devices); the location of obstructions (e.g., roadwork, accidents, etc.); data indicative of events (e.g., scheduled concerts, parades, etc.); and/or any other map data that provides information that assists the autonomous vehicle105in comprehending and perceiving its surrounding environment and its relationship thereto. In some implementations, the vehicle computing system100can determine a vehicle route for the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the map data145.

The autonomous vehicle105can include a positioning system150. The positioning system150can determine a current position of the autonomous vehicle105. The positioning system150can be any device or circuitry for analyzing the position of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the positioning system150can determine position by using one or more of inertial sensors (e.g., inertial measurement unit(s), etc.), a satellite positioning system, based on IP address, by using triangulation and/or proximity to network access points or other network components (e.g., cellular towers, WiFi access points, etc.) and/or other suitable techniques. The position of the autonomous vehicle105can be used by various systems of the vehicle computing system100and/or provided to a remote computing system. For example, the map data145can provide the autonomous vehicle105relative positions of the elements of a surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105. The autonomous vehicle105can identify its position within the surrounding environment (e.g., across six axes, etc.) based at least in part on the map data145. For example, the vehicle computing system100can process the sensor data140(e.g., LIDAR data, camera data, etc.) to match it to a map of the surrounding environment to get an understanding of the vehicle's position within that environment.

The autonomy computing system130can include a perception system155, a prediction system160, a motion planning system165, and/or other systems that cooperate to perceive the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105and determine a motion plan for controlling the motion of the autonomous vehicle105accordingly. For example, the autonomy computing system130can obtain the sensor data140from the vehicle sensor(s)125, process the sensor data140(and/or other data) to perceive its surrounding environment, predict the motion of objects within the surrounding environment, and generate an appropriate motion plan through such surrounding environment. The autonomy computing system130can communicate with the one or more vehicle control systems135to operate the autonomous vehicle105according to the motion plan.

The vehicle computing system100(e.g., the autonomy computing system130) can identify one or more objects that are proximate to the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the sensor data140and/or the map data145. For example, the vehicle computing system100(e.g., the perception system155) can process the sensor data140, the map data145, etc. to obtain perception data170. The vehicle computing system100can generate perception data170that is indicative of one or more states (e.g., current and/or past state(s)) of a plurality of objects that are within a surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the perception data170for each object can describe (e.g., for a given time, time period) an estimate of the object's: current and/or past location (also referred to as position); current and/or past speed/velocity; current and/or past acceleration; current and/or past heading; current and/or past orientation; size/footprint (e.g., as represented by a bounding shape); class (e.g., pedestrian class vs. vehicle class vs. bicycle class), the uncertainties associated therewith, and/or other state information. The perception system155can provide the perception data170to the prediction system160(and/or the motion planning system165).

The prediction system160can be configured to predict a motion of the object(s) within the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105. For instance, the prediction system160can generate prediction data175associated with such object(s). The prediction data175can be indicative of one or more predicted future locations of each respective object. For example, the prediction system160can determine a predicted motion trajectory along which a respective object is predicted to travel over time. A predicted motion trajectory can be indicative of a path that the object is predicted to traverse and an associated timing with which the object is predicted to travel along the path. The predicted path can include and/or be made up of a plurality of way points. In some implementations, the prediction data175can be indicative of the speed and/or acceleration at which the respective object is predicted to travel along its associated predicted motion trajectory. The prediction system160can output the prediction data175(e.g., indicative of one or more of the predicted motion trajectories) to the motion planning system165.

The vehicle computing system100(e.g., the motion planning system165) can determine a motion plan180for the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the perception data170, the prediction data175, and/or other data. A motion plan180can include vehicle actions (e.g., planned vehicle trajectories, speed(s), acceleration(s), other actions, etc.) with respect to one or more of the objects within the surrounding environment of the autonomous vehicle105as well as the objects' predicted movements. For instance, the motion planning system165can implement an optimization algorithm, model, etc. that considers cost data associated with a vehicle action as well as other objective functions (e.g., cost functions based on speed limits, traffic lights, etc.), if any, to determine optimized variables that make up the motion plan180. The motion planning system165can determine that the autonomous vehicle105can perform a certain action (e.g., pass an object, etc.) without increasing the potential risk to the autonomous vehicle105and/or violating any traffic laws (e.g., speed limits, lane boundaries, signage, etc.). For instance, the motion planning system165can evaluate one or more of the predicted motion trajectories of one or more objects during its cost data analysis as it determines an optimized vehicle trajectory through the surrounding environment. The motion planning system165can generate cost data associated with such trajectories. In some implementations, one or more of the predicted motion trajectories may not ultimately change the motion of the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., due to an overriding factor). In some implementations, the motion plan180may define the vehicle's motion such that the autonomous vehicle105avoids the object(s), reduces speed to give more leeway to one or more of the object(s), proceeds cautiously, performs a stopping action, etc.

The motion planning system165can be configured to continuously update the vehicle's motion plan180and a corresponding planned vehicle motion trajectory. For example, in some implementations, the motion planning system165can generate new motion plan(s) for the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., multiple times per second). Each new motion plan can describe a motion of the autonomous vehicle105over the next planning period (e.g., next several seconds). Moreover, a new motion plan may include a new planned vehicle motion trajectory. Thus, in some implementations, the motion planning system165can continuously operate to revise or otherwise generate a short-term motion plan based on the currently available data. Once the optimization planner has identified the optimal motion plan (or some other iterative break occurs), the optimal motion plan (and the planned motion trajectory) can be selected and executed by the autonomous vehicle105.

The vehicle computing system100can cause the autonomous vehicle105to initiate a motion control in accordance with at least a portion of the motion plan180. A motion control can be an operation, action, etc. that is associated with controlling the motion of the vehicle. For instance, the motion plan180can be provided to the vehicle control system(s)135of the autonomous vehicle105. The vehicle control system(s)135can be associated with a vehicle controller (e.g., including a vehicle interface) that is configured to implement the motion plan180. The vehicle controller can, for example, translate the motion plan into instructions for the appropriate vehicle control component (e.g., acceleration control, brake control, steering control, etc.). By way of example, the vehicle controller can translate a determined motion plan180into instructions to adjust the steering of the autonomous vehicle105“X” degrees, apply a certain magnitude of braking force, etc. The vehicle controller (e.g., the vehicle interface) can help facilitate the responsible vehicle control (e.g., braking control system, steering control system, acceleration control system, etc.) to execute the instructions and implement the motion plan180(e.g., by sending control signal(s), making the translated plan available, etc.). This can allow the autonomous vehicle105to autonomously travel within the vehicle's surrounding environment.

The autonomous vehicle105can include a wall control system185communicatively coupled to a partition wall (e.g., shown inFIGS.3-6). The wall control system185can be configured to automatically control the movement of the partition wall. For instance, the wall control system185can be communicatively connected to a mechanical and/or electrical control device (e.g., a motor, servo, air compressor, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or some other mechanical control device) that can physically move the partition wall305. In this way, the wall control system185can automatically adjust the partition wall onboard the autonomous vehicle105without human user interaction and without the vehicle going to a service depot (e.g., to allow a technician to adjust the interior configuration of the vehicle).

The autonomous vehicle105can include a seat control system195communicatively coupled to one or more seats within the interior of the autonomous vehicle105. The seat control system195can be connected to a mechanical and/or electrical control device (e.g., a motor, servo, air compressor, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or some other mechanical control device) that can physically move the seat(s). One or more portions of the wall control system185and the seat control system195can be implemented in the same system or separate from one another.

The autonomous vehicle105can include an HMI (“Human Machine Interface”)190that can output data for and accept input from a user of the autonomous vehicle105. The HMI190can include one or more output devices such as display devices, speakers, tactile devices, etc. For instance, the autonomous vehicle105can include a plurality of display devices. The display devices can include smart glass technology, a display screen, CRT, LCD, plasma screen, touch screen, TV, projector, other types of display devices and/or a combination thereof. One or more of the display devices can be included in a user device (e.g., personal computer, tablet, mobile phone, etc.).

The plurality of display devices can include a first display device and a second display device. The first display device can be associated with the exterior of the autonomous vehicle105. The first display device can be located on an exterior surface and/or other structure, of the autonomous vehicle105and/or configured such that a user can view and/or interact with the first display device (and/or a user interface rendered thereon) from the exterior of the autonomous vehicle. For example, one or more windows of the autonomous vehicle105can include smart glass technology that can perform as the first display device. The second display device can be associated with the interior of the autonomous vehicle105. The second display device can be located on an interior surface and/or other structure (e.g., seat, partition, etc.) of the autonomous vehicle105and/or configured such that a user can view and/or interact with the second display device (and/or a user interface rendered thereon) from the interior of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, one or more partitions located within the interior of the autonomous vehicle105can include the second display device. For instance, the one or more of the partitions can include smart glass technology that can perform as the second display device.

The autonomous vehicle105can be associated with a variety of different parties. In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle105can be associated with a vehicle provider. The vehicle provider can include, for example, an owner, a manufacturer, a vendor, a manager, a coordinator, a handler, etc. of the autonomous vehicle105. The vehicle provider can be an individual, a group of individuals, an entity (e.g., a company), a group of entities, a service entity, etc. In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle105can be included in a fleet of vehicles associated with the vehicle provider. The vehicle provider can utilize a vehicle provider computing system that is remote from the autonomous vehicle105to communicate (e.g., over one or more wireless communication channels) with the vehicle computing system100of the autonomous vehicle105. The vehicle provider computing system can include a server system (e.g., of an entity), a user device (e.g., of an individual owner), and/or other types of computing systems.

The autonomous vehicle105can be configured to perform vehicle services for one or more service entities. An autonomous vehicle105can perform a vehicle service by, for example and as further described herein, travelling (e.g., traveling autonomously) to a location associated with a requested vehicle service, allowing user(s) and/or item(s) to board or otherwise enter the autonomous vehicle105, transporting the user(s) and/or item(s), allowing the user(s) and/or item(s) to deboard or otherwise exit the autonomous vehicle105, etc. In this way, the autonomous vehicle105can provide the vehicle service(s) for a service entity to a user.

A service entity can be associated with the provision of one or more vehicle services. For example, a service entity can be an individual, a group of individuals, a company (e.g., a business entity, organization, etc.), a group of entities (e.g., affiliated companies), and/or another type of entity that offers and/or coordinates the provision of one or more vehicle services to one or more users. For example, a service entity can offer vehicle service(s) to users via one or more software applications (e.g., that are downloaded onto a user computing device), via a website, and/or via other types of interfaces that allow a user to request a vehicle service. As described herein, the vehicle services can include transportation services (e.g., by which a vehicle transports user(s) from one location to another), delivery services (e.g., by which a vehicle transports/delivers item(s) to a requested destination location), courier services (e.g., by which a vehicle retrieves item(s) from a requested origin location and transports/delivers the item to a requested destination location), and/or other types of services.

Each service entity can be associated with a respective telecommunications network system of that service entity. A telecommunications network system can include the infrastructure to facilitate communication between the autonomous vehicle105and the various computing systems of the associated service entity that are remote from the autonomous vehicle105. For example, a service entity can utilize an operations computing system200to communicate with, coordinate, manage, etc. autonomous vehicle(s) to perform the vehicle services of the service entity. A telecommunications network system can allow an autonomous vehicle105to utilize the back-end functionality of the respective operations computing system200(e.g., service assignment allocation, vehicle technical support, etc.).

An operations computing system200can include one or more computing devices that are remote from the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., located off-board the autonomous vehicle105). For example, such computing device(s) can be components of a cloud-based server system and/or other type of computing system that can communicate with the vehicle computing system100of the autonomous vehicle105, another computing system (e.g., a vehicle provider computing system250, etc.), a user device, etc. The operations computing system200can be or otherwise included in a data center for the service entity, for example. The operations computing system can be distributed across one or more location(s) and include one or more sub-systems. The computing device(s) of an operations computing system200can include various components for performing various operations and functions. For instance, the computing device(s) can include one or more processor(s) and one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer readable media (e.g., memory devices, etc.). The one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer readable media can store instructions that when executed by the one or more processor(s) cause the operations computing system (e.g., the one or more processors, etc.) to perform operations and functions, such as communicating data to and/or obtaining data from user device(s), vehicle(s), etc.

In some implementations, the operations computing system200and the vehicle computing system100can indirectly communicate. For example, a vehicle provider computing system can serve as an intermediary between the operations computing system and the vehicle computing system100such that at least some data is communicated from the operations computing system200(or the vehicle computing system100) to the vehicle provider computing system and then to the vehicle computing system100(or the operations computing system200).

An operations computing system200can be configured to select and assign tasks to autonomous vehicles.FIG.2depicts the example operations computing system200according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The operations computing system200can be associated with one or more service entities. The operations computing system200can include, for example, a vehicle service coordination system205, and/or other systems.

The vehicle service coordination system205can be configured to coordinate the provision of one or more vehicle services to one or more users210. For instance, the operations computing system200can include a request interface215. The request interface215can allow the operations computing system200to communicate with one or a plurality of user devices220(e.g., mobile phones, desktops, laptops, tablets, game systems, etc.). The request interface215can allow the operations computing system200and the user device(s)220to communicate data to and/or from one another. For example, the user device(s)220can communicate (e.g., via the request interface215) data indicative of a service request225for a vehicle service to an operations computing system200associated with a service entity.

The vehicle service coordination system205can be configured to generate a service assignment230. A service assignment230can be indicative of a vehicle service (e.g., requested by a user via the user device(s)220) to be performed by a vehicle (e.g., an autonomous vehicle). A service assignment230can include a variety of information associated with the vehicle service, the requesting user, the user device, the service entity, etc. For example, a service assignment230can include data indicative of an associated user and/or user device (if permitted), data indicative of a compensation parameter (e.g., the compensation for delivering an item to a user, couriering an item for a user, transporting a user, etc.), data indicative of one or more locations (e.g., origin location, destination location, intermediate location, etc.), data indicative of a type of vehicle service (e.g., transportation service, delivery service, courier service, etc.), data indicative of the type of cargo for the vehicle service (e.g., passengers, luggage, packages, food, time-sensitive mail, etc.), data indicative of a vehicle type/size (e.g., sedan, sport utility vehicle, luxury vehicle, etc.), data indicative of one or more time constraints (e.g., pick-up times, drop-off times, time limits for delivery, service duration, etc.), data indicative of user preferences (e.g., music, temperature, etc.), data indicative of one or more vehicle service parameters (e.g., luggage types, handle-with-care instructions, special pick-up requests, etc.), data indicative of the special accommodations (e.g., wheelchairs, handicapped users, etc.), data indicative of user ratings, data indicative of one or more vehicle service incentives (e.g., increased compensation, increased ratings, priority treatment, etc.), and/or other types of data.

The operations computing system200(e.g., the vehicle service coordination system205) can identity one or more autonomous vehicles that are available for a service assignment230. The vehicle service coordination system205can identify autonomous vehicle(s) that are online with the service entity associated with the operations computing system200. The vehicle service coordination system205can select an autonomous vehicle for the service assignment230based at least in part on the data indicated in the service assignment230. For example, the vehicle service coordination system205can select an autonomous vehicle that meets the preferences of the user, has the necessary capacity, is the requested vehicle type, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle service coordination system205can select an autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the current and/or future location of the autonomous vehicle. For example, the vehicle service coordination system205can select an autonomous vehicle that is proximate to an origin location associated with the service assignment230. Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle service coordination system205can select an autonomous vehicle that is within and/or nearby a geographic area that includes the origin location and/or destination location of the service assignment230.

The operations computing system200can utilize a vehicle interface235to communicate data indicative of a service assignment230to one or more vehicle computing systems240of one or more autonomous vehicles245. The vehicle computing system(s)240can include the vehicle computing system100and/or be configured in similar manner (e.g., as shown inFIG.1) and the autonomous vehicle(s)245can include the autonomous vehicle105. The vehicle interface235can allow the operations computing system200and one or a plurality of vehicle computing systems240(e.g., of one or a plurality of autonomous vehicles245) to communicate data to and/or from one another. For example, the operations computing system200can communicate, via the vehicle interface235, data indicative of a service assignment230to one or more vehicle computing system(s)240of the autonomous vehicles245that the operations computing system200selects for the service assignment230. Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle computing system(s)240can communicate data associated with the autonomous vehicle(s)245to the operations computing system200. In this way, the operations computing system200can coordinate the performance of vehicle service(s) for user(s) by the autonomous vehicle(s)245as well as monitor the autonomous vehicle(s)245. The autonomous vehicle(s)245can include and/or be configured in the same or a similar manner to the autonomous vehicle105shown inFIG.1.

In some implementations, the operations computing system200can select a non-autonomous vehicle (e.g., human driven vehicle) for a service assignment230. For example, the vehicle service coordination system205can select a non-autonomous vehicle that is proximate to a location associated with the service assignment230. Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle service coordination system205can select a non-autonomous vehicle that is within and/or nearby a geographic area that includes the origin location and/or destination location of the service assignment230. The operations computing system200can communicate data indicative of a service assignment230to one or more computing devices associated with the selected non-autonomous vehicle (e.g., a user device of the vehicle operator). The service assignment230can be indicative of a request that the operator provide the requested vehicle service to a user associated with the service assignment230.

In some implementations, the operations computing system200can communicate with one or more vehicle provider computing systems250(associated with one or more vehicle providers) via a vehicle provider interface255. The vehicle provider computing system(s)250can be associated with vehicle provider(s) that are associated with the autonomous vehicle(s)245. A vehicle provider can include, for example, an owner, a manufacturer, a vendor, a manager, a coordinator, a handler, etc. of the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., a third party, etc.). The vehicle provider can be an individual, a group of individuals, an entity (e.g., a company), a group of entities, a service entity, etc. In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle105can be included in a fleet of vehicles associated with the vehicle provider. The vehicle provider can utilize a vehicle provider computing system250that is remote from the autonomous vehicle105to communicate (e.g., over one or more wireless communication channels) with the vehicle computing system(s)240of one or more autonomous vehicles245. A vehicle provider computing system250can include a server system (e.g., of an entity), a user device (e.g., of an individual owner), and/or other types of computing systems.

The vehicle provider interface255can allow the operations computing system200and one or a plurality of vehicle provider computing systems250(e.g., of one or more vehicle providers, etc.) to communicate data to and/or from one another. For example, the operations computing system200can communicate, via the vehicle provider interface255, data indicative of a service assignment230, and/or other data as described herein, to one or more vehicle provider computing system(s)250. The vehicle provider computing system(s)250can then communicate such data to the vehicle computing system(s)240. Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle provider computing system(s)250can communicate data associated with one or more autonomous vehicles245(and/or other data) to the operations computing system200.

A service entity may have varying levels of control over the vehicle(s) that perform its vehicle services. In some implementations, a vehicle can be included in the service entity's dedicated supply of vehicles. The dedicated supply can include vehicles that are owned, leased, or otherwise exclusively available to the service entity (e.g., for the provision of its vehicle service(s), other tasks, etc.) for at least some period of time. This can include, for example, an autonomous vehicle245that is associated with a vehicle provider, but that is online only with that service entity (e.g., available to accept service assignments for only that service entity, etc.) for a certain time period (e.g., a few hours, a day, week, etc.).

In some implementations, a vehicle can be included in the service entity's non-dedicated supply of vehicles. This can include vehicles that are not exclusively available to the service entity. For example, an autonomous vehicle245that is currently online with two different service entities so that the autonomous vehicle245may accept service assignment(s)230from either service entity (e.g., from the operations computing systems associated therewith, etc.) may be considered to be part of a non-dedicated supply of autonomous vehicles. In some implementations, whether a vehicle is considered to be part of the dedicated supply or the non-dedicated supply can be based, for example, on an agreement between the service entity and a vehicle provider associated with the autonomous vehicle245.

Returning toFIG.1, an autonomous vehicle105can be configured to determine one or more interior compartments to accommodate for a given service assignment230. Each of the compartments can be associated with a different purpose. For instance, the autonomous vehicle105can determine one compartment for a first group of users and another, separate compartment for a second group of users. To do so, the vehicle computing system100can adjust a position of one or more partition walls located within an interior cabin of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the one or more service assignments.

For example,FIGS.3A-Bdepict example diagrams of an autonomous vehicle105with an automatic partition wall305according to example implementations of the present disclosure. For instance, the autonomous vehicle can include a main body301with an interior cabin300. By way of example, the main body301of the autonomous vehicle205can include walls (e.g., side/front/rear walls, partition wall305), a floor325, and a ceiling315. The walls, the floor325, and the ceiling315can define the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. The autonomous vehicle105can include a partition wall305that is movable within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. The partition wall305can move substantially along a longitudinal direction (e.g., extending through the front and the rear of the vehicle). For instance, the partition wall305can be movably connected to rails, wheels, magnets, and/or other mechanism(s) that allow the partition wall305to slide, glide, slip, and/or otherwise move between multiple positions within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., a first position, a second position, a third position, etc.) along a path that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction. The partition wall305can extend between the floor325and the ceiling315in a direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. For example, the partition wall305can extend in a vertical direction (e.g., extending through the top and the bottom of the vehicle) and a traverse direction (e.g., extending through the left and the right sides of the vehicle).

Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the partition wall305can move in the traverse and/or vertical direction. For example, the partition wall305can rotate clockwise and/or counterclockwise around an axis that is parallel to the vertical direction and/or an axis that is parallel to the traverse direction. This can be done, for example, to allow for more leg room for a particular seat.

In some implementations, the partition wall305can extend a portion of the vertical distance between the floor325and the ceiling315. For example, the partition wall305can extend halfway from the floor325(e.g., in the vertical direction) to create two compartments partially divided by the partition wall305. In another example, the partition wall305can extend halfway from one side wall to the other (e.g., in the traverse direction) to create two compartments partially divided by the partition wall305. In this manner, the partition wall305can create a partial barrier between the two compartments within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105without completely separating the compartments. Alternatively, or additionally, the partition wall305can extend the complete vertical distance between the floor325and the ceiling315(and the side wall to side wall in the traverse direction) to create two distinct compartments separated by the partition wall305.

The partition wall305can help create and/or (e.g., partially, wholly, etc.) separate different compartments within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. For instance, the interior cabin300can include at least a first compartment310and a second compartment320. In some implementations, one of the compartments (e.g., first compartment310) can be utilized for transporting riders and one of the compartments (e.g., second compartment320) can be utilized for transporting items. In some implementations, the compartments can be used to transport separate groups of users (e.g., a first group of user(s) in the first compartment310, a second group of user(s) in the second compartment320, etc.) or to transport separate groups of items (e.g., a first group of item(s) in the first compartment310, a second group of item(s) in the second compartment320, etc.). The partition wall305can include a first side and a second side that is opposite the first side, as shown inFIGS.3A-B. The first side can at least partially define the first compartment310of interior cabin300and the second side can at least partially define the second compartment320of interior cabin300. This can allow the partition wall305to provide a partial and/or complete physical barrier between the compartments.

The partition wall305can be communicatively connected to the wall control system185that is configured to automatically control the movement of the partition wall305. For instance, the wall control system185can be communicatively connected to a mechanical and/or electrical control device (e.g., a motor, servo, air compressor, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or some other mechanical control device) that can physically move the partition wall305. In this way, the partition wall305can be automatically adjusted onboard the autonomous vehicle105without human user interaction and without the vehicle going to a service depot (e.g., to allow a technician to adjust the interior configuration of the vehicle). In this manner, the vehicle control system100can automatically adjust its interior in real-time (as the vehicle is deployed) to meet the specific needs of one or more service assignments. Thus, the wall control system185can allow the autonomous vehicle105to avoid using its processing, memory, power, etc. resources to travel to the service depot for reconfiguration (e.g., by a technician) for each service assignment.

Turning toFIG.4,FIGS.4A-Cdepict example perspective diagrams of an automatic partition wall (e.g., partition wall305) at various positions according to example implementations of the present disclosure. For example, the autonomous vehicle105can include one or more seats330located within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. The seat(s)330can be retractable so that the autonomous vehicle105can provide various seating and/or storage configurations within the interior cabin300. For instance, as depicted inFIG.4B, the seat(s)330can be retractable into the floor325of the autonomous vehicle105such that the seat(s)330are not exposed within the interior cabin300. For example, the seat(s)330can move from an extended position where the seat(s)330are exposed in the interior cabin300(e.g., as inFIG.4A) to a stowed position (e.g., as inFIG.4B) in a floor storage compartment410that is located underneath the floor325of the autonomous vehicle105, and vice versa. In some implementations, the seat(s)330can be movably coupled to the partition wall305(e.g., via rail(s), wheel(s), magnet(s), etc.) so that the seat(s)330can move in the vertical direction (e.g., from the extended position to the stowed position). In some implementations, the seat(s)330can be movably coupled to the floor325(e.g., via mechanical arm(s), rail(s), adjustable truss(es), etc.) so that the seats330can move from the extended position to the stowed position, and vice versa.

The seat(s)330can be communicatively coupled to a seat control system195that is configured to automatically adjust the position of the seat(s)330. The seat control system195can be connected to a mechanical and/or electrical control device (e.g., a motor, servo, air compressor, hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or some other mechanical control device) that can physically move the seat(s)330. In this manner, the seat control system195can allow the autonomous vehicle105to more efficiently utilize its onboard computational and power resources by re-configuring its interior to facilitate a wide range of vehicle services as opposed to operating in an idle state. One or more portions of the wall control system185and the seat control system195can be implemented in the same system or separate from one another.

In some implementations, as illustrated byFIG.4C, the seat(s)330can be retractable to allow for the movement of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. For instance, the partition wall305can be movable between a first position (e.g., position inFIG.4A) and a second position (e.g., position inFIG.4C) along a path (e.g., defined by a mechanical rail system). While in the extended position, the seat(s)330may prevent the partition wall305from moving between the first and second position(s) (e.g., by physically blocking the wall's path). Accordingly, the seat(s)330can be retracted into the stowed position (e.g., into the floor compartment410) so that the partition wall305is able to move along the path between the first and second position(s). In this manner, the vehicle computing system100of autonomous vehicle105can create one or more dynamic compartments depending on the needs of one or more users.

For illustration purposes,FIGS.5A-Bdepict example overhead-view diagrams of an automatic partition wall (e.g., partition wall305) at various positions according to example implementations of the present disclosure. The vehicle computing system100can adjust the partition wall305and one or more seat(s)330to create a first compartment310and/or a second compartment320. In some implementations, the vehicle computing system100can determine one or more compartment configurations based at least in part on the purpose for each compartment. For instance, the first compartment310can include one or more seat(s)330in the extended position for the purpose of seating passengers. Additionally, or alternatively, the second compartment320can be configured for storage purposes and include one or more seats in the stowed position.

In some implementations, the vehicle computing system100of the autonomous vehicle105can be configured to automatically adjust the partition wall305and/or the seat(s)330to accommodate for various service assignment(s)230. For instance, the vehicle computing system100can obtain data indicative of one or more service assignments230associated with the autonomous vehicle105. As described herein, the service assignment(s)230can be indicative of a variety of information associated with a requested vehicle service. The vehicle computing system100can determine a position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the service assignment(s)230(e.g., the information indicated therein).

For instance, the vehicle computing system100can process the data indicative of the service assignment(s)230to determine one or more associated service parameters. For example, the one or more service parameters can include a number of users and/or items to be transported, special accommodations such as one or more handicaps/requirements exhibited by the one or more users, user preferences, time constraints etc.

The vehicle computing system100can access a data structure (e.g., table, list, etc.) that is indicative of various pre-determined wall positions corresponding to various service assignment parameters. The data structure can include, for example, wall position data that indicates where the partition wall305should be positioned for a certain number of user(s), a certain number/type of item(s), certain special parameters (e.g., wheel chair accommodations), etc. The vehicle computing system100can determine the position of the partition wall305based at least in part on the parameters associated with the service assignment(s)230and the wall position data by traversing the data structure to find the appropriate wall position given the particular service assignment parameters.

Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle computing system100can determine a seat adjustment of the seat(s)330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the service assignment(s)230. For example, the vehicle computing system100can access a data structure that is indicative of various pre-determined seat arrangements corresponding to the various service assignment parameters. The data structure can include, for example, seat arrangement data that indicates how the seat(s)330should be arranged for a certain number of user(s), a certain number/type of item(s), certain special parameters (e.g., wheel chair accommodations), etc. The vehicle computing system100can determine the seat adjustment based at least in part on the parameters specified in the service assignment230and the seat arrangement data by traversing the data structure to find the seat arrangement given the service assignment parameters.

In some implementations, the vehicle computing system100can determine the position of the partition wall305and/or a seat adjustment of seat(s)330within the interior cabin300of autonomous vehicle105based, at least in part, on a priority level assigned to one or more of the service assignment parameters. For example, in some implementations, user preferences can be assigned a lower priority than certain special parameters such as wheel chair accommodations. For example, a first user of a service assignment can be associated with a preference for a large storage space while a second user of the service assignment can be associated with wheelchair accommodations. In some cases, the large storage space can remove space necessary to accommodate the second user requiring wheelchair accommodations. In such a case, the vehicle computing system100can prioritize the wheelchair accommodations over the first user's preference for large storage space. In this manner, the vehicle computing system100can configure the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based, at least in part, on priority associated with one or more service assignment parameters to accommodate one or more conflicting service assignment parameters.

The vehicle computing system100can initiate the automatic adjustment of the partition wall305and/or the seat(s)330within the vehicle's interior cabin300. For example, the service assignment230can be indicative of a number of users and/or items to be transported in the autonomous vehicle105. In response, the vehicle computing system100can determine that the partition wall305should be adjusted to a position such that a first compartment310has enough space to accommodate the number of user(s) and that a second compartment320has enough space to store the items. By way of example, the service assignment230can be indicative of four users with two backpacks. In such a case, the vehicle computing system100can determine that the partition wall305should be adjusted to create a first compartment310with enough space to accommodate the four users and a second compartment320with enough space to accommodate the two backpacks (e.g., as shown inFIG.5B). In addition, or alternatively, the service assignment230can be indicative of a user preference for two seats330. In such a case, the vehicle computing system100can initiate the automatic adjustment of the partition wall305to create at least one compartment with enough space to position two seats330(e.g., as shown inFIG.5A). In this manner, the vehicle computing system100can determine dynamic compartments based on user preferences.

Moreover, the vehicle computing system100can determine a seat adjustment based on the service assignment230. For instance, the vehicle computing system100can determine how many seats330are needed to accommodate the users and/or whether any of the seats need to be retracted into a floor325of the main body of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the service assignment may be indicative of two users. In response, the vehicle computing system100can determine a seat adjustment to allow for at least one seat330for each of the two users (e.g., two seat(s)330). Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle computing system100can determine one or more seats330need to be retracted, for example, to allow for movement of the partition wall305, to allow for more storage space in the second compartment320, etc.

In another example, the service assignment230can indicate one or more special request. For example, the service assignment230can indicate that a user with a wheel chair is to be transported by the autonomous vehicle105. The vehicle computing system100can determine a position for the partition wall305within the interior cabin300and/or a seat adjustment (e.g., to retract seat(s) into the floor325, etc.) such that a first compartment310has enough space to accommodate the user's wheel chair.

The vehicle computing system100can communicate one or more signals (e.g., to the wall/seat control systems185/195) to initiate an adjustment of the position of the partition wall305and/or a seat adjustment. The signal(s) can be indicative of the position to which the partition wall305is to be adjusted and/or the seat adjustment (e.g., the position, orientation, configuration, etc. to the seat(s)330are to be adjusted). The wall and/or seat control system(s)185/195can automatically adjust the partition wall305and the seat(s)330accordingly. When the partition wall305reaches the determined position the partition wall305can be locked into position via a locking system (e.g., a lock pin, teeth, grooves, tabs, slots, latching mechanisms, etc.) configured to secure the partition wall305in place. Similar such mechanisms can be utilized for securing the seat(s)330in a particular position.

In some implementations, the vehicle computing system100can adjust the partition wall305and/or seat(s)330based on a plurality of service assignments230. For instance, the vehicle computing system100can obtain data indicative of a first service assignment associated with a first vehicle service. This can include, for example, a request to transport a first group of users to a first destination location (e.g., a restaurant). The vehicle computing system100can determine that the autonomous vehicle105has enough capacity to accept another service assignment (e.g., to pool vehicle services). The vehicle computing system100can obtain data indicative of a second service assignment associated with a second vehicle service. This can include, for example, a request to transport a second group of users to a second destination location (e.g., a stadium). The vehicle computing system100can determine a position of the partition wall305and/or a seat adjustment of the seat(s)330based at least in part on the first service assignment and the second service assignment such that the autonomous vehicle105is able to perform the first vehicle service concurrently with the second vehicle service. For example, the vehicle computing system100can determine a position of the partition wall305(and/or a seat adjustment) that allows a first compartment310to accommodate the first group of users and a second compartment320to accommodate the second group of users such that the first and second groups can ride within the autonomous vehicle105at the same time. The vehicle computing system100can communicate signals to adjust the partition wall305and/or the seats330according to the determined wall position and/or seat adjustment.

The vehicle computing system100can cause the autonomous vehicle105to initiate a motion control to travel to a location to pick-up the one or more user(s) and/or the one or more item(s). Before and/or while the autonomous vehicle is en route to the location, the vehicle computing system100can adjust the partition wall305and/or seat(s)330, as described herein. The adjustment of the partition wall305and/or the seat adjustment can be completed before the autonomous vehicle105arrives at the location. In this way, the autonomous vehicle can re-configure the vehicle's interior300to accommodate the user(s) and/or the item(s) for transportation before the user(s) and/or the item(s) are onboard the autonomous vehicle105.

Returning toFIGS.4A-4C, in some implementations, the partition wall305can include a visual output device420. The visual output device420can include a display device such as, for example, smart glass technology, a display screen, CRT, LCD, plasma screen, touch screen, TV, projector, other types of display devices and/or a combination thereof. The visual output device420can be configured to display various information for a user that is onboard the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the display device can present a user interface that is indicative of the location of the autonomous vehicle105within a geographic area, proximity of the autonomous vehicle105to a destination location, media content (e.g., movies, shows, games, etc.), information associated with a destination location (e.g., weather information, flight information, etc.), traffic information, event information, and/or any other information. In some implementations, the vehicle computing system100can control what content is displayed via the visual output device420.

The partition wall305can also, or alternatively, include other output devices. For example, the partition wall305can include one or more audio output device(s) such as one or more speakers. In some implementations, the partition wall305can provide information to one or more users via the one or more audio output devices (e.g., weather information, information associated with a destination, music, etc.). For example, in some implementations, the vehicle computing system100can control what content is provided via the audio output device(s).

Additionally, or alternatively, the partition wall305can include one or more input devices. For example, the partition wall305can be configured to communicate with one or more users via one or more input device(s) associated with the partition wall305. By way of example, the partition wall305can include one or more touch screens capable of interacting with the one or more users through touch. For instance, the one or more users may touch one or more soft button(s) displayed via a user interface present on the partition wall305. Moreover, in some implementations, the partition wall305can include one or more microphones configured to capture audio input. For example, the partition wall305can interact with one or more user(s) by obtaining audio input via the one or microphones for one or more user commands.

The partition wall305may act as a communicative link between one or more users and the vehicle computing system100. By way of example, the one or more users can interact with the partition wall305to request specific information to be displayed via the partition wall305. By way of example, the partition wall305can display traffic information in response to a user pressing a soft button indicative of traffic information. Moreover, in some implementations, the partition wall305can display traffic information in response to a user verbally requesting traffic information.

Although example implementations are described herein with respect to the autonomous vehicle105having one partition wall305, this is not meant to be limiting. For example,FIG.6depicts an example overhead-view diagram of an autonomous vehicle105with multiple automatic partition walls according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Autonomous vehicle105can have a plurality of partition walls605A-B within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. One or more of the plurality of partition walls605A-B can be configured like partition wall305, as described herein.

The plurality of partition walls305can help to create/define more than two compartments within the autonomous vehicle. For example, the plurality of partition walls can include a first partition wall605A and a second partition wall605B. The vehicle computing system100can obtain data indicative of a first service assignment (e.g., to transport two users) and a second service assignment (e.g., to transport another two users). The first and second partition walls605A-B can be positioned such that the first compartment310can be configured with one or more seat(s)330to seat the user(s) associated with the first service assignment and the second compartment320can be configured to seat the other users associated with the second service assignment. Moreover, a third compartment610can be configured without one or more seats330as a storage compartment (e.g., for transporting item(s) associated with the users of the first service assignment, for transporting item(s) associated with the users of the second service assignment, for transporting item(s) associated with a courier or delivery service assignment, etc.). In this manner, vehicle computing system100can configure the interior cabin300of autonomous vehicle105to handle multiple distinct user(s), item(s), service assignments, etc. with diverse needs.

FIG.7depicts an example method for automatically adjusting a partition wall according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. One or more portion(s) of the method700can be implemented by a computing system that includes one or more computing devices such as, for example, the computing systems described with reference to the other figures (e.g., the vehicle computing system100, etc.). Each respective portion of method700can be performed by any (or any combination) of one or more computing devices. Moreover, one or more portion(s) of the method700can be implemented as an algorithm on the hardware components of the device(s) described herein (e.g., as inFIGS.1-6and/or8-9), for example, to allow a vehicle to configure its interior (e.g., to adjust one or more partition wall(s) and/or seat(s)) to accommodate one or more users.FIG.7depicts elements performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosers provided herein, will understand that the elements of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, combined, and/or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.FIG.7is described with reference to elements/terms described with respect to other systems and figures for example illustrated purposes and is not meant to be limiting. One of more portions of method700can be performed additionally, or alternatively, by other systems.

At (705), the method700can include obtaining data indicative of one or more service assignment(s) for an autonomous vehicle. For instance, a computing system (e.g., the vehicle computing system100) can be configured to receive data indicative of one or more service assignment(s)230associated with the autonomous vehicle105. The computing system (e.g., the vehicle computing system100) can obtain data indicative of one or more service assignment(s)230associated with the autonomous vehicle105, which can be indicative of a variety of information. For example, the one or more service assignment(s)230can be indicative of at least one of one or more users and/or one or more items to be transported within the autonomous vehicle105. In addition, or alternatively, the one or more service assignment(s)230can be indicative of one or more location(s) (e.g., pick-up location(s), drop-off location(s), etc.).

For example, in some implementations, the one or more service assignment(s)230can include a first service assignment. The first service assignment can be indicative of a number of users to be transported within the autonomous vehicle105. Additionally, or alternatively, the first service assignment can be indicative of one or more items to be transported within the autonomous vehicle105. Moreover, in some implementations, the one or more service assignment(s)230can include a first service assignment associated with a first vehicle service, and a second service assignment associated with a second vehicle service (e.g., for vehicle service pooling). In some implementations, the first service assignment and/or the second service assignment can be associated with the transportation of just item(s), without user(s) (e.g., for a courier or delivery service, etc.).

At (710), the method700can include determining a position of a partition wall within autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the one or more service assignment(s). The autonomous vehicle105can include a main body301including a floor325and a ceiling315that at least partially define an interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. In addition, the autonomous vehicle105can include a partition wall305that is movable within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. In some implementations, the partition wall305can extend between the floor325and the ceiling315of the main body301. For example, the partition wall305can extend from the floor325to the ceiling315defining the interior cabin300. In some implementations, the partition wall305can include a display device420configured to display information for a user of the autonomous vehicle105.

As described herein, the main body301of the autonomous vehicle105can include a first compartment310and a second compartment320. For example, the partition wall305can include a first side and a second side. In such a case, the first side can at least partially define the first compartment310of the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105and the second side can at least partially define the second compartment320of the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. In some implementations, the partition wall305can be moveable in a longitudinal direction with respect to the autonomous vehicle105. Moreover, in some implementations, the partition wall305can extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction with respect to the autonomous vehicle105, as described herein.

The computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine a position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the one or more service assignments230. In some implementations, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine the position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on at least one or the one or more users and the one or more items to be transported by within the autonomous vehicle105. For example, in some implementations, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine the position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the number of users to be transported within the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., such that a first compartment310can accommodate the user(s), etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine the position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the one or more items to be transported within the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., such that a second compartment320can accommodate the item(s), etc.). In some implementations, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine the position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the first service assignment and the second service assignment such that the autonomous vehicle105is able to perform the first vehicle service concurrently with the second vehicle service (e.g., transport a first set of user(s) concurrent with a second group of user(s), a group of item(s), etc.).

At (715), the method700can include determining a seat adjustment of one or more seat(s) within autonomous vehicle based at least in part on the one or more service assignment(s). In some implementations, the autonomous vehicle105can include one or more seats330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. In some implementations, the one or more seat(s)330can be retractable into the floor325of the main body301of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the one or more seat(s)330can be retractable to allow for the movement of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., along an associated path, etc.). Moreover, in some implementations, the one or more seat(s)330can be coupled to the partition wall305, as described herein.

The computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine a seat adjustment of the one or more seat(s)330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the one or more service assignments230. The seat adjustment can be indicative of a change in the position, orientation, configuration, etc. of one or more seat(s)330. For instance, in some implementations, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can determine the seat adjustment of the one or more seat(s)330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on at least one of the one or more users or the one or more items to be transported within the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the seat adjustment can include a retraction of the one or more seat(s)330into the floor325of the main body301of the autonomous vehicle105(e.g., to accommodate a re-configuration of the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105).

At (720), the method700can include communicating signals to initiate an adjustment of the partition wall and/or the one or more seat(s). The computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can communicate one or more first signals to initiate an adjustment of the partition wall305to the determined position within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can be configured to adjust a position of the partition wall305within the interior cabin300based at least in part on the one or more service assignments230(e.g., to increase the size of a compartment to accommodate a specified number of users, etc.). The computing system can send the first signal(s) indicative of the determined wall position to the wall control system185to adjust the partition wall305accordingly.

Additionally, or alternatively, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can communicate one or more second signals to initiate the seat adjustment of the one or more seat(s)330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. For example, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can be configured to adjust a position of the one or more seat(s)330within the interior cabin300. To do so, the computing system can send the second signal(s) indicative of a determined seat position to the seat control system195to adjust the seat(s)330accordingly.

At (725), the method700can include causing the autonomous vehicle to initiate motion control to travel to one or more location(s) associated with the one or more service assignment(s). The computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can cause the autonomous vehicle105to initiate a motion control to travel to a location. For example, the autonomous vehicle105can implement a motion plan(s)180to cause the autonomous vehicle105to autonomously travel to a pick-up location associated with a service assignment (e.g., to pick-up user(s), item(s), etc.). Moreover, in some implementations, the computing system (e.g., vehicle computing system100) can cause the adjustment of the partition wall305and the seat adjustment to be completed before the autonomous vehicle105arrives at the location (e.g., the pick-up location). In this way, the autonomous vehicle105can configure its interior cabin300such that it is accommodating for the user(s), item(s), etc.

Various means can be configured to perform the methods and processes described herein. For example,FIG.8depicts a diagram of an example a computing system800that includes various means according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The computing system800can be and/or otherwise include, for example, the vehicle computing system100/240, an operations computing system200, a vehicle provider computing system250, etc. The computing system800can include data obtaining unit(s)805, wall position determination unit(s)810, seat adjustment determination unit(s)815, control unit(s)820and/or other means for performing the operations and functions described herein. In some implementations, one or more of the units may be implemented separately. In some implementations, one or more units may be a part of or included in one or more other units. These means can include processor(s), microprocessor(s), graphics processing unit(s), logic circuit(s), dedicated circuit(s), application-specific integrated circuit(s), programmable array logic, field-programmable gate array(s), controller(s), microcontroller(s), and/or other suitable hardware. The means can also, or alternately, include software control means implemented with a processor or logic circuitry for example. The means can include or otherwise be able to access memory such as, for example, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as random-access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, flash/other memory device(s), data registrar(s), database(s), and/or other suitable hardware.

The means can be programmed to perform one or more algorithm(s) for carrying out the operations and functions described herein. For instance, the means (e.g., the data obtaining unit(s)805) can be configured to obtain data indicative of one or more service assignments230associated with an autonomous vehicle105(e.g., from an accessible local memory). As described herein, the service assignment230can be indicative of a variety of information such as, for example, the number of user(s) and/or item(s) to be transported in the autonomous vehicle105.

The means (e.g., the wall position determination unit(s)810) can determine a position of a partition wall305within an interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the one or more service assignments230. As described herein, the interior cabin300is at least partially defined by a floor325and a ceiling315of a main body301of the autonomous vehicle105and the partition wall305can extend from the floor325to the ceiling315defining the interior cabin300. The means (e.g., the wall position determination unit(s)810) can adjust the position of the partition wall305to adjust the size and/or configuration of one or more compartments (e.g., compartments310/320) within the interior cabin300. For instance, the means (e.g., the wall position determination unit(s)810) can access (e.g., via a memory) a data structure that is indicative of various pre-determined wall positions corresponding to various service assignment specifications. The data structure can include, for example, wall position data that indicates where the partition wall305should be positioned for a group of two users, four users, to accommodate a wheel chair, etc. The means (e.g., the wall position determination unit(s)810) can utilize this data to determine the position of the partition wall305that will help address the specific service assignment230(e.g., so that users and/or item(s) have ample space).

The means (e.g., the seat adjustment unit(s)815) can determine a seat adjustment of one or more seats330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105based at least in part on the service assignment(s)230. For instance, the means (e.g., the seat adjustment unit(s)815) can determine whether the seat(s)330need to be adjusted to allow the partition wall305to move to a determined position. Additionally, or alternatively, the means (e.g., the seat adjustment unit(s)815) can determine how many seats330and what seat configurations should be utilized given the specifications of a service assignment230. For example, the means (e.g., the seat adjustment determination unit(s)815) can access (e.g., via a memory) a data structure that is indicative of various pre-determined seat arrangements corresponding to various service assignment specifications. The data structure can include, for example, seat arrangement data that indicates how the seat(s)330should be arranged for a group of two users, four users, to accommodate a wheel chair, to provide storage space for certain item(s), etc. The means (e.g., the seat adjustment determination unit(s)815) can utilize this data to determine a seat adjustment that will help address the specific service assignment(s)230(e.g., so that users and/or item(s) have sufficient seating/storage space).

The means (e.g., the control unit(s)820) can communicate one or more signals to initiate an adjustment of the partition wall305to the determined position within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105and/or to initiate the seat adjustment of the one or more seats330within the interior cabin300of the autonomous vehicle105. For instance, the means (e.g., the control unit(s)820) can provide signals to the control systems associated with the partition wall305and/or the seat(s)330. The signals can be indicative of the determined position of the partition wall305and/or the seat adjustment. The control systems can process these signals and adjust the partition wall305and/or seat(s)330accordingly.

FIG.9depicts an example system900according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The example system900illustrated inFIG.9is provided as an example only. The components, systems, connections, and/or other aspects illustrated inFIG.9are optional and are provided as examples of what is possible, but not required, to implement the present disclosure. The example system900can include a vehicle computing system905of a vehicle. The vehicle computing system905can represent/correspond to the vehicle computing systems100,240described herein. The example system900can include a remote computing system950(e.g., that is remote from the vehicle computing system905). The remote computing system950can represent/correspond to an operations computing system200described herein and/or vehicle provider computing systems250described herein. The vehicle computing system905and the remote computing system950can communicate with one another over one or more network(s)940.

The computing device(s)910of the vehicle computing system905can include processor(s)915and a memory920. The one or more processors915can be any suitable processing device (e.g., a processor core, a microprocessor, an ASIC, a FPGA, a controller, a microcontroller, etc.) and can be one processor or a plurality of processors that are operatively connected. The memory920can include one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, EPROM, one or more memory devices, flash memory devices, data registrar, etc., and combinations thereof.

The memory920can store information that can be accessed by the one or more processors915. For instance, the memory920(e.g., one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage mediums, memory devices) on-board the vehicle can include computer-readable instructions925that can be executed by the one or more processors915. The instructions925can be software written in any suitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware. Additionally, or alternatively, the instructions925can be executed in logically and/or virtually separate threads on processor(s)915.

For example, the memory920can store instructions925that when executed by the one or more processors915cause the one or more processors915(the vehicle computing system905) to perform operations such as any of the operations and functions of the vehicle computing system100(or for which it is configured), one or more of the operations and functions of the vehicle provider computing systems250(or for which it is configured), one or more of the operations and functions of the operations computing systems200described herein (or for which it is configured), one or more of the operations and functions for adjusting partition wall(s) and/or seat(s) within the vehicle's interior, one or more portions of method700, and/or one or more of the other operations and functions of the computing systems described herein.

The memory920can store data930that can be obtained (e.g., acquired, received, retrieved, accessed, created, stored, etc.). The data930can include, for instance, sensor data, map data, vehicle state data, perception data, prediction data, motion planning data, data associated with a vehicle client, data associated with a service entity's telecommunications network, data associated with an API, data associated with a library, data associated with library parameters, data associated with service assignments, data associated with origin locations, data associated with destination locations, data associated with drop-locations, data/data structures associated with partition wall(s) and/or seat(s), wall position data, seat position data, data associated with user interfaces, data associated with user input, and/or other data/information such as, for example, that described herein. In some implementations, the computing device(s)910can obtain data from one or more memories that are remote from the vehicle computing system905.

The computing device(s)910can also include a communication interface935used to communicate with one or more other system(s) on-board a vehicle and/or a remote computing device that is remote from the vehicle (e.g., of the system950). The communication interface935can include any circuits, components, software, etc. for communicating via one or more networks (e.g., network(s)940). The communication interface935can include, for example, one or more of a communications controller, receiver, transceiver, transmitter, port, conductors, software and/or hardware for communicating data.

The remote computing system950can include one or more computing device(s)955that are remote from the vehicle computing system905. The computing device(s)955can include one or more processors960and a memory965. The one or more processors960can be any suitable processing device (e.g., a processor core, a microprocessor, an ASIC, a FPGA, a controller, a microcontroller, etc.) and can be one processor or a plurality of processors that are operatively connected. The memory965can include one or more tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, EPROM, one or more memory devices, flash memory devices, data registrar, etc., and combinations thereof.

The memory965can store information that can be accessed by the one or more processors960. For instance, the memory965(e.g., one or more tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage media, one or more memory devices, etc.) can include computer-readable instructions970that can be executed by the one or more processors960. The instructions970can be software written in any suitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware. Additionally, or alternatively, the instructions970can be executed in logically and/or virtually separate threads on processor(s)960.

For example, the memory965can store instructions970that when executed by the one or more processors960cause the one or more processors960to perform operations such as any of the operations and functions of the operations computing systems200described herein, any operations and functions of the vehicle provider computing systems250, any of the operations and functions for which the operations computing systems200and/or the vehicle computing systems100are configured, one or more of the operations and functions of the vehicle computing system100described herein, one or more of the operations and functions for determining wall/seat positions and adjusting wall(s)/seat(s) (e.g., via remote communication with the vehicle), one or more portions of method700, and/or one or more of the other operations and functions described herein.

The memory965can store data975that can be obtained. The data975can include, for instance, data associated with service requests, communications associated with/provided by vehicles, data to be communicated to vehicles, application programming interface data, data associated with vehicles and/or vehicle parameters, data associated with drop-off locations, data/data structures associated with partition wall(s) and/or seat(s), wall position data, seat position data, data associated with user interfaces, data associated with user input, data associated with service assignments, data associated with acceptances and/or rejections of service assignments, data associated with different service entities, data associated with fleet(s) of vehicles, and/or other data/information such as, for example, that described herein.

The computing device(s)955can also include a communication interface980used to communicate with one or more system(s) onboard a vehicle and/or another computing device that is remote from the system950. The communication interface980can include any circuits, components, software, etc. for communicating via one or more networks (e.g., network(s)940). The communication interface980can include, for example, one or more of a communications controller, receiver, transceiver, transmitter, port, conductors, software and/or hardware for communicating data.

The network(s)940can be any type of network or combination of networks that allows for communication between devices. In some embodiments, the network(s)940can include one or more of a local area network, wide area network, the Internet, secure network, cellular network, mesh network, peer-to-peer communication link and/or some combination thereof and can include any number of wired or wireless links. Communication over the network(s)940can be accomplished, for instance, via a communication interface using any type of protocol, protection scheme, encoding, format, packaging, etc.

Computing tasks, operations, and functions discussed herein as being performed at one computing system herein can instead be performed by another computing system, and/or vice versa. Such configurations can be implemented without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The use of computer-based systems allows for a great variety of possible configurations, combinations, and divisions of tasks and functionality between and among components. Computer-implemented operations can be performed on a single component or across multiple components. Computer-implemented tasks and/or operations can be performed sequentially or in parallel. Data and instructions can be stored in a single memory device or across multiple memory devices.

The communications between computing systems described herein can occur directly between the systems or indirectly between the systems. For example, in some implementations, the computing systems can communicate via one or more intermediary computing systems. The intermediary computing systems may alter the communicated data in some manner before communicating it to another computing system.

The number and configuration of elements shown in the figures is not meant to be limiting. More or less of those elements and/or different configurations can be utilized in various embodiments.

While the present subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific example embodiments and methods thereof, it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of the foregoing can readily produce alterations to, variations of, and equivalents to such embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is by way of example rather than by way of limitation, and the subject disclosure does not preclude inclusion of such modifications, variations and/or additions to the present subject matter as would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.