Belt-Driven Sensor Platform for AV Blind Spot Coverage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in maintaining optimal sensor coverage due to changes in motion, driving angles, and environmental factors, leading to blind spots and reduced field of view, which can compromise safety and navigation.
Innovation Solution
A sensor positioning platform that dynamically rotates and repositions sensors using a belt-driven system with a timing pulley drive ring and motor, allowing for improved field of view and accuracy by adjusting sensor placement in real-time to account for vehicle movements and environmental changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are mounted at fixed locations on the autonomous vehicle, then the device complexity is reduced, but the field of view and coverage are limited due to blind spots and reduced detection capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a rotating sensor carrier structure that can dynamically adjust the position and orientation of sensors. The carrier structure rotates about a vertical axis, allowing sensors to change their field of view and coverage areas adaptively, transforming the static sensor mounting into a dynamic system that can respond to changing environmental conditions and vehicle motion states
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating sensor carrier structure serves multiple functions: it enables sensors to scan different areas, adjusts field of view dynamically, and provides versatile detection coverage. This single mechanism replaces what would otherwise require multiple fixed sensors positioned at various locations, achieving multi-functionality while managing complexity
2Reliability
If sensors are mounted at fixed locations, then the manufacturing and installation process is simplified, but the sensor coverage creates blind spots that compromise safety
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic rotation capability allows the sensor system to actively compensate for blind spots by repositioning sensors to detect objects in areas that would otherwise be obscured. This dynamic adjustment enhances safety and reliability by ensuring comprehensive environmental awareness without requiring complex multi-sensor fixed installations
3Productivity
If sensors remain stationary, then the system is simpler to operate and maintain, but changes in vehicle motion and driving angles create reduced field of coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the rotating sensor carrier structure responds to detected objects and environmental conditions by adjusting sensor positions. The system receives input about object locations and vehicle motion, then automatically repositions sensors to optimize detection coverage, maintaining high productivity while managing operational complexity through automated control
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
Enhances sensor visibility and detection capabilities, providing a robust understanding of the environment, reducing blind spots, and improving navigation and safety by maintaining optimal sensor coverage.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor carrier structure may be mounted on to a timing pulley drive ring that may be mechanically engaged, via a belt, with one or more pulleys such that, in response to movement of the belt, the timing pulley drive ring and, hence, the sensor carrier structure, rotate
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies for steering sensors in a sensor carrier structure on an autonomous vehicle (AV) are described herein. In some examples, a sensor positioning platform on an AV can include an actuator system including a motor; a belt mechanically engaged to a set of pulleys such that operation of the motor results in the belt driving a first rotational movement of at least one of the pulleys, which, in turn, causes a second rotational movement of a sensor carrier structure; a motor controller that receives instructions for controlling the motor to reposition the sensor carrier structure and sending control signals to the motor to perform the repositioning of the sensor carrier structure; and a bundle of cables coiled within a central bore of the actuator system.