Camera Pointing Angle Validation Using Collimated Beam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing cameras in vehicles lack a standard mechanism for accurately measuring the pointing angle, which is crucial for reliable sensor alignment and vehicle control, leading to potential inconsistencies in data collection and vehicle performance.
Innovation Solution
An enhanced pointing angle validation system using an autocollimator to align a collimated beam with a camera's mounting datum and subsequently validate the camera's alignment by capturing images of a collimated source, allowing for precise calculation of pointing angle deviations and adherence to specific thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used for camera mounting, then the alignment process is simpler, but the measurement precision of pointing angle is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a collimated beam as an intermediary element between the alignment validation system and the camera mounting datum. The collimated beam provides a parallel light reference that enables precise angular measurement without direct contact with the camera, thereby achieving high measurement precision while maintaining system simplicity through optical mediation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment tools (such as protractors, levels, or contact-based measurement devices) with an optical system comprising a collimated beam source and camera imaging. This substitution eliminates mechanical contact errors and achieves superior measurement precision through optical principles while reducing mechanical complexity
2Reliability
If no standardized alignment mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of sensor data is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal alignment validation system that can be applied to multiple camera mounting scenarios through the standardized use of collimated beams and mounting datums. The system serves multiple functions including alignment validation, pointing angle measurement, and orientation verification, thereby ensuring sensor data reliability across different applications without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary alignment validation by establishing a collimated beam reference before camera mounting and using the mounting datum to pre-establish the correct orientation. This preliminary action ensures that the camera is aligned correctly before data collection begins, thereby guaranteeing sensor data reliability from the outset
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 approach provides accurate alignment with orders of magnitude better accuracy than traditional methods, ensuring the camera's pointing angle meets required performance standards, thereby enhancing the reliability of vehicle sensor systems.
Implementation Method 1
an autocollimator to align a collimated beam with a camera's mounting datum
Implementation Method 2
align a collimated beam with a camera's mounting datum and subsequently validate the camera's alignment by capturing images of a collimated source
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods are provided for enhanced pointing angle validation. A device may generate a collimated beam using a light source emitting a light beam through a fiducial target in an optical instrument. The device may capture an image fiducial target using a camera, wherein the camera is mounted on a mounting datum that is orthogonal to the collimated beam. The device may determine a pointing angle associated with camera based on the captured image of the fiducial target. The device may compare a location of the fiducial target in the image to an optical center of the camera. The device may determine a validation status of camera based on the location of the fiducial target in the image.