Vehicle Image Sensor Verification Using Collimator Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ensuring the accuracy of sensor data received by self-driving vehicles is difficult and complicated, requiring efficient verification of image sensor performance without dismounting them from the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing system aligns image sensors with collimators to verify performance without dismounting, identifying deviations from performance specifications and routing alerts for recalibration as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image sensors are dismounted from the vehicle for verification, then measurement precision can be improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease due to removal and reinstallation processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring collimators with known geometric relationships and pre-programming the verification algorithm in the onboard computer. This allows the sensor verification to be performed quickly using pre-prepared reference data, eliminating the need for complex setup procedures and reducing the time required for sensor verification while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the image sensor to verify its own performance using the collimators and onboard computer. The sensor captures images of the collimators, and the onboard computer automatically processes these images to determine sensor accuracy, eliminating the need for external verification equipment or personnel to remove and reinstall sensors.
2Reliability
If complex verification procedures are used to ensure sensor accuracy, then reliability improves, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The onboard computer serves multiple functions: it controls vehicle operations, processes sensor data, and performs sensor verification by analyzing collimator images. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated verification equipment, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable sensor accuracy verification through the computer's existing processing capabilities.
3Reliability
If frequent sensor verification is performed, then reliability of sensor data improves, but productivity decreases due to time spent on verification
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by performing sensor verification at predetermined intervals or under specific conditions (such as at the start of each shift or when anomalies are detected). This periodic verification approach ensures sensor data reliability is maintained while minimizing the frequency of verification activities to preserve vehicle productivity and operational efficiency.
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 method efficiently verifies image sensor performance in situ, improving testing efficiency and quality by distinguishing sensors that meet specifications and requiring recalibration.
Implementation Method 1
causing alignment of one or more collimators with one or more image sensors mounted to a vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are methods for verifying the performance of an image sensor mounted to a vehicle, which can include causing alignment of a collimator with an image sensor mounted to a vehicle, receiving sensor data associated with the image sensor based at least in part on causing the alignment of the collimator with the image sensor, determining that the sensor data does not satisfy a performance specification associated with the image sensor, determining an image sensor alert associated with the image sensor based at least in part on determining that the sensor data does not satisfy the performance specification associated with the image sensor, and routing the image sensor alert.