Autonomous Vehicle Camera Ring With EMI-Shielded 360° Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous vehicles face challenges in providing seamless and unimpeded fields of view around the vehicle due to the placement and type of cameras used, which can impact their ability to operate effectively in autonomous modes, and are susceptible to electromagnetic interference from other sensors.
Innovation Solution
A camera ring structure that co-locates image sensors to provide 360° and 60-135° fields of view, includes electromagnetic interference protection, and incorporates thermal regulation and mechanical stiffness to ensure consistent sensor operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are co-located in a compact camera assembly, then the field of view coverage and sensing capability are improved, but the sensors become susceptible to electromagnetic interference from each other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electromagnetic shielding materials as intermediary barriers between adjacent sensors in the camera assembly. These shielding structures act as mediators that block electromagnetic fields from one sensor from interfering with adjacent sensors, while allowing the sensors to remain co-located for optimal sensing coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies electromagnetic shielding selectively to specific regions between sensors based on their interference patterns. Different shielding configurations are used in different locations within the camera assembly, with shielding materials positioned strategically to address local interference problems while maintaining overall sensor performance.
2Device complexity
If sensors are placed close together to achieve 360° field of view, then the device complexity is reduced, but mechanical stiffness and sensor alignment precision become difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the camera assembly into modular sections with standardized mounting interfaces. Each sensor module is pre-assembled and calibrated as a separate unit, then integrated into the overall 360° camera system. This segmentation allows for precise alignment to be achieved and maintained through modular construction rather than attempting to align all sensors in a single complex assembly.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact camera ring structure is used, then the space occupied is reduced, but thermal management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses thermal management in the compact camera ring by introducing thermal conduction pathways in the radial dimension, perpendicular to the plane of the sensors. Heat sinks and thermal vias are positioned to conduct heat away from sensors through the mounting structure, providing thermal relief without increasing the lateral footprint of the camera assembly.
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
The camera ring structure enhances the vehicle's ability to operate autonomously by providing comprehensive and uninterrupted environmental sensing while protecting sensors from interference and maintaining precise image capture.
Implementation Method 1
The outer cover is configured to provide at least one of electromagnetic interference protection for the camera modules from emissions by other sensors, and electromagnetic interference protection for the other sensors from emissions by the camera modules
Implementation Method 2
The structure can include a thermal heatsink or otherwise provide a degree of temperature regulation to the cameras and other components of the sensor system
Implementation Method 3
sensors are used to detect features and objects in the environment around the vehicle. The sensors may include one or more cameras at different locations about the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
The technology relates to autonomous vehicles that use a perception system to detect objects and features in the vehicle's surroundings. A camera assembly having a ring-type structure is provided that gives the perception system an overall 360° field of view around the vehicle. Image sensors are arranged in camera modules around the assembly to provide a seamless panoramic field of view. One subsystem has multiple pairs of image sensors positioned to provide the overall 360° field of view, while another subsystem provides a set of image sensors generally facing toward the front of the vehicle to provide enhanced object identification. The camera assembly may be arranged in a housing located on top of the vehicle. The housing may include other sensors such as LIDAR and radar. The assembly includes a chassis and top and base plates, which may provide EMI protection from other sensors disposed in the housing.