Infrared Detector with Reflective Mirror Optics for Blind Spot Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal radiation detection systems for vehicle blind spots are either costly, inflexible, or prone to thermal noise, and lack effective signal-to-noise detection in multiple coverage zones, making them inefficient for detecting objects in adjacent lanes.
Innovation Solution
A thermal radiation detecting device using a pair of passive infrared sensors with reflective mirror optics, allowing focused infrared radiation from multiple coverage zones to be directed onto corresponding sensors, enhancing signal-to-noise ratio and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple thermal detection sensors with separate lens elements are used to detect thermal energy in multiple coverage zones, then the detection capability in multiple zones is improved, but the device complexity and susceptibility to thermal noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple thermal detection sensors and their corresponding lens elements into a single integrated housing structure. The housing is configured with multiple windows that allow thermal energy from different coverage zones to reach the respective sensors, merging what would otherwise be separate detector assemblies into one unified device while maintaining the ability to detect thermal energy in multiple distinct zones
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses multiple sensors, provides multiple windows for thermal energy reception, and integrates the optical path for multiple coverage zones. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system while maintaining detection capability across multiple zones
2Measurement precision
If optical lens elements are used to direct thermal energy to thermal detection sensors, then the thermal energy detection is improved, but the system becomes susceptible to thermal noise and drift
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure acts as an intermediary between the external environment and the thermal detection sensors. It provides controlled pathways through its windows that allow thermal energy to reach the sensors while isolating the sensors from direct exposure to thermal noise and drift from surrounding components, thus mediating the thermal energy reception to improve signal quality
3Illumination intensity
If conventional side view mirrors are used to view the blind spot, then the driver can see part of the roadway behind or beside the host vehicle, but the blind spot region remains unviewable without physically turning the head
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical action of physically turning the head to view the blind spot with an automated thermal detection system. The thermal detection sensors continuously monitor the blind spot region for thermal signatures, eliminating the need for the driver to perform the mechanical action of head rotation while providing equivalent or superior information about objects in the blind spot
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
The solution provides a cost-effective, compact, and flexible thermal radiation detector with improved signal-to-noise detection, enabling accurate detection of objects in vehicle blind spots and accommodating various platform applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first location by receiving infrared radiation from the first location
Implementation Method 2
detecting thermal radiation emission, such as thermal energy emitted from an object
Implementation Method 3
a reflector for directing the infrared radiation of the first location towards the first infrared detector and for directing the infrared radiation of the second location towards the second infrared detector
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal detecting device for sensing temperature at multiple locations proximate to the detecting device is provided. The detecting device has a pair of infrared detectors each configured to measure temperature of two locations by receiving infrared energy of the two locations. A housing encloses the pair of infrared detectors. The housing is configured with an aperture to allow the infrared energy of the two locations to be received by the pair of infrared detectors. A reflective mirror or two mirrors focus the infrared energy of the two locations towards the pair of infrared detectors. The detecting device may be configured to determine if there is a temperature differential at a location as the housing moves with respect to the location.