Helical Sensor Holder for Radar Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor mounts for radar systems in motor vehicles are complex and require multiple moving parts for precise alignment, which can be cumbersome and prone to misalignment due to manufacturing tolerances and attachment issues.
Innovation Solution
A sensor holder with a pivotable mounting unit and a helically grooved adjustment shaft that engages with a guide element, allowing for precise and self-locking vertical adjustment of the sensor's main radiation direction using minimal components, including molded pins and a one-piece plastic design for simplicity and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple moving parts are used for precise alignment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple alignment functions into a single adjustment shaft with integrated helical guide contours. Instead of using separate mechanisms for different alignment movements, the invention merges them into one component that provides both radial and axial adjustment capabilities, thereby reducing the number of moving parts while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment shaft serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides radial positioning through the helical guide contour engagement, enables axial adjustment through rotational movement, and offers self-locking capability. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each adjustment function, reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple moving parts are used for adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but reliability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The helical guide contour automatically provides self-locking functionality through its geometric design. As the adjustment shaft rotates, the helical engagement creates friction that prevents back-driving, thereby maintaining the adjusted position without requiring additional locking mechanisms. This self-service feature enhances reliability while preserving full adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex locking mechanisms to maintain position, the invention inverts the approach by designing the guide contour itself to provide inherent position retention through its helical geometry. The friction and geometric constraints of the helical path naturally prevent unintended movement, making the system more reliable with fewer parts.
3Ease of operation
If conventional adjustment mechanisms are used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the guide contour to create a helical path with specific pitch and angle characteristics. This parametric design allows the component to provide precise adjustment while accommodating broader manufacturing tolerances, as the helical geometry inherently compensates for minor variations in component dimensions through its progressive engagement pattern.
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 easy and precise adjustment of the radar sensor's angle of inclination with reduced components, ensuring accurate alignment and minimizing transverse forces, thus enhancing the reliability and ease of installation of radar systems in motor vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
which extends helically around the adjustment shaft has running guide contour, which runs helically
Implementation Method 2
a holding frame on which the mounting unit is held pivotably
Data Source
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AI summary
Sensor holder for a sensor (12) for object detection, comprising an assembly unit (14) for the sensor (12), a retaining frame (18) on which the assembly unit (14) is held such that it can pivot, an adjustment shaft (22) mounted on the retaining frame (18), said adjustment shaft having a screw-like guide contour (24) around the adjustment shaft (22), said guide contour engaging with a guide element (26) of the assembly unit (14); as well as a sensor unit comprising the sensor holder; and a sensor (12), particularly a radar sensor, arranged on the assembly unit (14) for object detection.