A Lifelong Learnable Hybrid Controller for Autonomous Driving
摘要
This work presents a hybrid controller that combines a fast deep neural network (DNN) based controller with a high-fidelity model predictive controller (MPC) to facilitate lifelong learning capability. The hybrid controller is developed based on a novel combination of following three steps: (i) formulation of a stochastic optimal control problem (SOCP) using a simplified kinematic model of the vehicle, (ii) implementation of a DNN that learns to solve the SOCP from synthetic data, and (iii) integration of closed-loop online retuning via both direct learning and imitation learning. This strategy leverages the computational efficiency of the DNN based control and the reliability of the MPC, allowing the hybrid controller to continuously improve from expert demonstrations and live feedback. Experimental results in CARLA simulation demonstrate reliable path-following, with the DNN policy exhibiting progressive improvement over time. Theoretical analysis establishes the feasibility of the underlying SOCP and provides consistency guarantees for the DNN controller, while quantitative outcomes ensure lateral tracking errors below 0.3 m, yaw errors under 4.5 degrees, control efforts ranging from 0.2 to 2 units, and computation times around 50 ms across diverse urban environments in CARLA. Overall, the work highlights the potential of hybrid learning-based controllers for autonomous driving, offering enhanced adaptability and computational performance.