In-Cabin Radar Sensor Calibration Using Corner Reflector Target
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Solution Overview
Problem
The calibration of in-cabin vehicle sensors, such as RADAR sensors, is currently expensive, cumbersome, and often requires specialized equipment not typically available at repair shops, making it difficult to achieve precise measurements for detecting vital signs of occupants.
Innovation Solution
The method involves detecting a calibration target positioned within the vehicle cabin using an in-cabin sensor, measuring locational parameters of the target, and calibrating the sensor using predetermined locational data. This can be facilitated by using a coupling piece, such as a seatbelt clip, and a corner reflector to temporarily and precisely position the calibration target within the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional calibration methods using robotic arms and specialized equipment are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A calibration target with known locational parameters serves as an intermediary object between the calibration process and the sensor. This target can be detected by the in-cabin sensor to establish reference measurements, eliminating the need for complex robotic positioning systems while maintaining calibration accuracy through predetermined target characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using expensive robotic arms to physically position calibration objects, the system uses a stationary calibration target with predetermined locational data that replicates the calibration function. The target acts as a simplified copy of the complex positioning system, providing reference points without requiring complex actuation mechanisms
2Measurement precision
If traditional calibration methods with specialized equipment are used, then calibration accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target is designed to be self-positioning or easily positionable by the technician without requiring complex equipment operation. The target includes features that allow it to be placed in the cabin and automatically provide calibration data to the sensor system, making the calibration process accessible to regular repair shop personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target is pre-configured with known locational parameters and positioned in advance at specific locations within the vehicle cabin. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex real-time positioning during calibration, allowing technicians to simply detect the pre-positioned target and perform calibration based on predetermined data
3Measurement precision
If traditional calibration equipment is used, then calibration precision is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target is pre-positioned in the vehicle cabin before the calibration process begins, with its locational parameters predetermined and stored in the system. This eliminates time-consuming positioning operations during calibration, allowing the sensor to quickly detect the target and complete calibration without waiting for complex equipment setup
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a simple, stationary calibration target that can be quickly deployed and detected, replacing time-consuming robotic positioning operations. The predetermined locational data of the target allows for rapid calibration completion while maintaining precision, significantly improving calibration throughput
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 approach simplifies, quickens, and reduces the cost of calibrating in-cabin sensors, enabling more precise detection of vital signs and overcoming the limitations of existing calibration methods.
Implementation Method 1
the calibration target may comprise a corner reflector, such as a reflector having three or more reflective surfaces configured to reflect a signal from an in-cabin RADAR sensor or another in-cabin sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for calibrating in-cabin vehicle sensors, such as in-cabin RADAR sensors. In some implementations, the method may comprise detecting a calibration target positioned within a cabin of a vehicle using an in-cabin vehicle sensor. One or more locational parameters of the calibration target relative to the in-cabin vehicle RADAR sensor may then be measured. The in-cabin vehicle sensor may then be calibrated by comparing the detected locational data with predetermined locational data of the calibration target within the vehicle.