Beam Sensor Axial Misalignment Detection in Vertical Plane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face difficulties in detecting axial misalignment of beam sensors in the vertical plane while the vehicle is running, and in correcting the laser beam axis during vehicle operation.
Innovation Solution
An axial misalignment detection apparatus that includes a beam recognition unit, an image recognition unit, and an alignment detection unit, which calculates the percentage of target recognition by both units to detect misalignment of the beam axis in the vertical plane, enabling accurate detection even when the vehicle is in motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the beam sensor is mounted at a predetermined position with the beam axis aligned to the designed axis position, then the detection accuracy of targets is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to mounting deviations that cause axial misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback by continuously monitoring the beam axis position during vehicle operation and comparing it against the designed axis position. The alignment detection unit receives beam axis position information and generates alignment detection results that feed back to indicate whether axial misalignment exceeds thresholds, enabling continuous verification and correction of the beam sensor alignment status.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment verification methods with an optical/electromagnetic field-based detection system. Instead of relying on mechanical mounting precision alone, the system uses the beam sensor's own probing beams (laser, radar, or ultrasonic waves) to detect and verify the beam axis position, substituting physical mechanical checks with field-based measurement and detection.
2Measurement precision
If existing technologies detect axial misalignment in the horizontal plane, then horizontal misalignment detection is achieved, but vertical plane misalignment detection during vehicle operation remains undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the detection capability from the horizontal plane to the vertical plane by introducing a vertical plane detection unit that specifically monitors the beam axis position in the vertical dimension. This additional dimensional detection capability allows the system to comprehensively detect axial misalignment in both horizontal and vertical planes during vehicle operation, rather than being limited to horizontal plane only.
3Manufacturing precision
If the laser beam axis is corrected during vehicle adjustment (stopped state), then the beam axis alignment is improved, but detection and correction during vehicle operation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous detection of beam axis alignment during vehicle operation by maintaining active monitoring through the alignment detection unit. Instead of performing discrete alignment checks only during vehicle adjustment periods, the system continuously tracks the beam axis position, ensuring uninterrupted verification of alignment status and enabling real-time detection of any drift or misalignment that occurs during operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for precise detection of radar beam axis misalignment in the vertical plane during vehicle operation, enhancing detection accuracy and ensuring improved safety features for vehicle control systems.
Implementation Method 1
Such a beam sensor transmits probing beams, such as laser beams, ultrasonic waves, or millimeter waves, and receives reflection beams, thus detecting targets located around a vehicle.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for detecting axial misalignment of a beam sensor calculates, based on a result of first target recognition tasks by a beam recognition unit and a result of second target recognition tasks by an image recognition unit, a percentage of the number of times at least one preceding vehicle, which is running in front of an own vehicle, is recognized by the pair of the first and second target recognition tasks to the number of times the at least one preceding vehicle is recognized by at least the image recognition task. The apparatus detects misalignment of the beam axis of the beam sensor in the vertical plane including the beam axis of the beam sensor in accordance with the calculated percentage.