MHV Sensor Orientation Tracking for Precise Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the precise location and orientation of sensors on material handling vehicles (MHVs) are inaccurate and time-consuming, often relying on conventional tools that lack the necessary precision and are not repeatable, leading to errors in sensor calibration and environmental sensing.
Innovation Solution
A novel sensor location and orientation system using a combination of electromagnetic radiation sensors, a base station, and a computer to determine the location and orientation of MHV sensors with sub-millimeter accuracy, employing a tracker location system that includes a sensor mount, tracking device, and origin tracking device to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tools (tape measure, protractor) are used to measure sensor location and orientation, then the measurement process is simple and quick, but the measurement precision and accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement tools (tape measures, protractors) with an optical tracking system using electromagnetic radiation. The system uses a base station to emit electromagnetic radiation and tracking devices with sensors to detect the radiation, eliminating the need for physical mechanical measurement tools and achieving sub-millimeter accuracy without manual measurement errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic radiation as an intermediary between the base station and tracking devices. The base station emits electromagnetic radiation that propagates through space to be detected by sensors on the tracking devices, enabling non-contact, high-precision measurement of sensor location and orientation without direct physical measurement.
2Measurement precision
If a calibrated target is used for sensor calibration, then the sensor can determine its own location, but the process requires a precision-manufactured target and significant time to locate the target precisely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables sensors to self-determine their location and orientation automatically through the tracking system. Each tracking device with sensors continuously receives electromagnetic radiation from the base station and autonomously calculates its position and orientation in real-time, eliminating the need for manual calibration with precision targets and reducing calibration time to minutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-positions tracking devices at known locations relative to the material handling vehicle before operation. This preliminary setup allows the system to establish reference frames in advance, enabling rapid real-time tracking without requiring time-consuming calibration procedures during operation.
3Productivity
If sensor location is assumed from construction drawings, then no measurement is needed, but manufacturing tolerance and wear result in inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the tracking system continuously monitors and provides real-time data on the actual location and orientation of sensors on the material handling vehicle. This feedback allows the system to detect deviations from the assumed construction drawings due to manufacturing tolerance or wear and automatically compensate for these inaccuracies.
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
Facilitates precise and accurate determination of sensor location and orientation, reducing errors and increasing efficiency in sensor calibration, enabling better environmental sensing and vehicle navigation.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor tracking device and origin tracking device each comprise a plurality of electromagnetic radiation sensors configured to receive electromagnetic radiation. The base station is configured to transmit electromagnetic radiation.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Sensor location and orientation systems and methods assist MHV manufacturers and operators in determining the precise location and orientation of MHV sensors by using a location tracking system.