Repositionable AV Sensor Package for Trailer Blind Spot Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in addressing the limitations of existing technologies, such as the inability to easily install sensors on trailers due to varying manufacturing standards and the formation of blind spots that hinder perception capabilities, leading to undetected obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A repositionable sensor system for autonomous vehicles, utilizing a drone or robotic arm to relocate sensors from the autonomous vehicle to the trailer, and a drone or robotic arm to relocate sensors from the autonomous vehicle to the trailer, and a robotic arm to relocate sensors from the autonomous vehicle to the trailer, ensuring minimal operator involvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are located on the autonomous vehicle cabin, then the sensors can detect the surrounding environment, but the trailer blocks some sensors and forms blind spots behind the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor package is made dynamically repositionable between the autonomous vehicle cabin and the trailer. A repositioning device (such as a robotic arm or movable mounting system) enables the sensors to automatically relocate their position based on whether the trailer is attached or detached, optimizing detection coverage for both configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor package is relocated from the traditional fixed position on the vehicle cabin to a movable position that can extend to the trailer rear. This spatial repositioning in another dimension (from front cabin to rear trailer) eliminates the blind spot problem by placing sensors in locations that are not blocked by the trailer structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are pre-installed on trailers, then sensors can be positioned on the trailer, but trailers are manufactured by different companies with varying standards making uniform installation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The repositioning device is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can interface with various trailer types regardless of manufacturer. The system uses standardized mounting interfaces and adaptable positioning mechanisms that work across different trailer configurations, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific installation modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor package and repositioning device are pre-integrated as a complete assembly on the autonomous vehicle before trailer attachment. This preliminary configuration allows the system to be universally applied to any trailer without requiring modifications to the trailer itself or complex installation procedures during trailer coupling
3Reliability
If sensors are added to every trailer upon connection, then comprehensive sensor coverage is achieved, but manual work is required each time a trailer is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The repositioning device operates autonomously to relocate the sensor package without requiring manual intervention. The system self-activates upon detecting trailer attachment and automatically completes the sensor relocation process, eliminating the need for operators to manually install or configure sensors during each trailer connection
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor package is pre-positioned on the autonomous vehicle and the repositioning device is pre-configured and ready for operation. When the trailer connects, the system automatically executes the repositioning sequence without requiring time-consuming manual setup, making the process as quick as the trailer coupling itself
4Extent of automation
If a repositioning device is used to move the sensor package, then sensors can be automatically relocated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The repositioning device is designed to perform multiple functions: it mounts the sensor package, relocates it along the vehicle-trailer interface, and secures it in the new position. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single integrated device, managing complexity while maintaining high automation capability
Data Source
AI summary
A method of repositioning a sensor package mounted to an autonomous vehicle cabin and communicatively coupled to a computing system of the autonomous vehicle by a cable includes determining that a trailer has been attached to the cabin and removing the sensor package from the cabin with a repositioning device after determining that the trailer has been attached to the cabin. The method also involves moving the sensor package to a rear of the trailer with the repositioning device, positioning the sensor package on the rear of the trailer, and securing the sensor package on the trailer using a retainer. A repositionable sensor system for an autonomous vehicle is also provided that includes a sensor package and a repositioning device. The repositioning device removes the sensor package, moves the sensor package to a rear of the trailer, and positions the sensor package on the trailer.