Distance Measurement Timing for Noise-Free Accessory Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The measurement accuracy of distance measuring devices, such as lidar devices, decreases due to electrical noise caused by the energization and de-energization of accessory parts like heaters and ultrasonic vibrators, which affect the measurement results.

Innovation Solution

A controlling unit is implemented to manage the energization of accessory parts, such as heaters, based on the state of distance measurements, ensuring that the accessory parts are not started or stopped during critical measurement periods to minimize noise interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If accessory parts like heaters and ultrasonic vibrators are energized to improve device functionality, then the device can perform additional functions (e.g., heating, cleaning), but measurement accuracy decreases due to electrical noise generated during energization and de-energization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The controlling unit schedules the energization of accessory parts to occur before or after measurement periods by monitoring measurement states. This preliminary timing arrangement ensures that electrical noise from accessory energization does not interfere with distance measurements, while still allowing the accessory parts to perform their intended functions at appropriate times

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements periodic measurement cycles with coordinated accessory energization cycles. The controlling unit alternates between measurement periods (where high precision is required) and accessory operation periods (where functionality is provided), creating a rhythmic pattern that prevents noise interference while maintaining both measurement accuracy and device functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Reliability

If accessory parts are operated continuously to maintain optimal conditions (e.g., heating to prevent fogging), then device reliability improves, but electrical noise continuously interferes with measurement signals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice reliabilityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The controlling unit predicts when measurements will occur and schedules accessory energization to complete before measurement periods begin. This preliminary coordination ensures that reliability-maintaining functions are performed without overlapping with sensitive measurement windows, eliminating continuous noise interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the operation schedule of accessory parts based on real-time measurement requirements. Rather than continuous operation, the controlling unit modulates accessory energization to be active only when measurements are not occurring, creating a dynamic balance between reliability maintenance and noise reduction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12174317B2Distance measuring device
Publication Date: 2024.12.24 DENSO CORP
  • US12174317B2 patent drawing
  • US12174317B2 patent drawing
  • US12174317B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A distance measuring device includes a measuring unit, a controlling unit, and an accessory part. The measuring unit includes an applying unit that applies a transmission wave and a detector that detects a reflected wave resulting from the transmission wave. The controlling unit is configured to perform a measurement, by using the measuring unit, a distance to an object to which the transmission wave is applied. The accessory part is attached to the measuring unit and configured to operate when energized. The controlling unit is configured to control energization of the accessory part in accordance with a state of the measurement of the distance performed by using the measuring unit.