Side Mirror Camera Assembly for Truck Blind Spot Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semi-trailer trucks face challenges in providing an uninterrupted and reliable sensor field of view due to vibrations, blind spots caused by trailers, and the need for precise object detection under varying road conditions, which are not adequately addressed by existing sensor systems.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly for autonomous vehicles comprising a side mirror assembly with multiple cameras and sensors, including a first camera opposite the direction of travel, a second camera in the direction of travel, a third camera perpendicular to the direction of travel, and a fourth camera on the roof, providing an uninterrupted 180° field of view, along with radar and lidar sensors, and a rigid support structure to withstand vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple cameras are mounted on the side mirror assembly to provide comprehensive field of view, then object detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cameras (first camera facing opposite direction, second camera facing forward, third camera facing perpendicular direction) are integrated into a single side mirror assembly, combining their functions into one unified structure that provides comprehensive 180° field of view while maintaining organized wiring and mounting
2Measurement precision
If a rigid support structure is used to withstand vibrations, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments including a rigid support frame, vibration dampeners positioned at critical points, and mounting brackets. This segmentation allows the structure to maintain rigidity for precision while incorporating vibration isolation elements without creating an overly complex monolithic design
3Ease of manufacture
If sensors are mounted on the vehicle without modification, then ease of manufacture is improved, but reliability may worsen due to limited mounting options
Solution Approach 1:
The side mirror assembly is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can be attached to standard vehicle components (A-pillar, door frame, or existing mirror mounts) without requiring vehicle modifications. The assembly includes adaptable mounting brackets and vibration isolation elements that work with various vehicle types, ensuring both easy installation and reliable sensor positioning
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor assembly for autonomous vehicles includes a side mirror assembly configured to mount to a vehicle. The side mirror assembly includes a first camera having a field of view in a direction opposite a direction of forward travel of the vehicle; a second camera having a field of view in the direction of forward travel of the vehicle; and a third camera having a field of view in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of forward travel of the vehicle. The first camera, the second camera, and the third camera are oriented to provide, in combination with a fourth camera configured to be mounted on a roof of the vehicle, an uninterrupted camera field of view from the direction of forward travel of the vehicle to a direction opposite the direction of forward travel of the vehicle.