Guided Soft Target Projector Assembly for Realistic Lighting Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing guided soft targets for testing crash avoidance technologies face challenges in simulating realistic vehicle lighting scenarios without damaging external illumination devices during collisions, which limits the effectiveness of full-scale test methodologies.
Innovation Solution
A guided soft target system equipped with a projector assembly that projects light patterns onto its exterior, either through translucent or transparent panels or apertures, allowing for realistic displays of headlights, turn signals, and brake lights, while being designed to withstand collisions and remain functional for repeated use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If external illumination devices are coupled to the outer cover of the guided soft target, then realistic lighting scenarios can be simulated, but the illumination devices are likely to be damaged during collision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a projector assembly to project light patterns onto the exterior surface of the guided soft target, creating a visual copy of vehicle lighting effects without physically coupling illumination devices to the outer cover. This allows realistic lighting simulation while protecting the actual light sources from collision damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The projector assembly acts as an intermediary device, projecting light patterns through translucent or transparent panels to create the appearance of illuminated vehicle lights without directly exposing illumination components to collision forces. The projected light patterns serve as a mediator between the control system and the visual display.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the guided soft target uses a collapsible internal frame with outer cover, then vehicle damage is minimized during testing, but the structure may not withstand repeated collisions with external illumination devices
Solution Approach 1:
The projector assembly projects light patterns onto the exterior surface, creating a visual representation of vehicle lighting without requiring physical illumination devices that would compromise the collapsible frame design. This maintains the soft target's ability to absorb collision energy while achieving realistic lighting effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical illumination devices (which would require physical mounting and compromise the collapsible structure) with a projector-based optical system. This substitution allows the frame to remain collapsible for safety while still achieving the desired lighting effects through projected patterns.
3Reliability
If the projector assembly is built into the interior of the platform base, then protection from collision damage is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The projector assembly is nested within the platform base structure, with the projector housing positioned inside the base and the projection lens extending through an opening in the outer cover. This nested arrangement protects the projector components from collision damage while maintaining the ability to project light patterns onto the exterior surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The projector assembly is divided into separate components: the projector housing positioned within the platform base, the projection lens extending through the outer cover, and the control module. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while protecting vulnerable elements from collision forces.
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
Enables more realistic and safe testing of vehicle technologies by providing a durable and reusable guided soft target that can simulate various lighting scenarios without sustaining damage from collisions, thereby minimizing hazards and equipment damage.
Implementation Method 1
A projector assembly is provided, configured for projecting light patterns for visual display onto an exterior of the guided soft target
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile platform is provided for a guided soft target. The mobile platform includes a platform base, and a drive unit that is configured to move the platform base along a ground surface. A projector assembly is provided, configured for projecting light patterns for visual display on an exterior of the guided soft target. The projector assembly may include a hardened housing defining at least one opening for projecting the light patterns. In certain aspects, the projector assembly is coupled to an outer surface of the platform base. In other aspects, the projector assembly may be built into, or is retractable into, an interior the platform base. The projector assembly may include a control module that is configured to be remotely controllable.