Side Mirror Sensor Assembly for 180-Degree 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 featuring a side mirror assembly with multiple cameras and sensors, including a first camera opposite the direction of travel, a second camera forward, a third camera perpendicular to the direction of travel, and a fourth camera on the roof, providing an uninterrupted 180-degree 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 and sensors are integrated into a side mirror assembly, then the field of view coverage and object detection capability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple cameras (first camera facing opposite direction, second camera facing forward, third camera facing perpendicular direction) and sensors (radar, lidar, IMU) into a single side mirror assembly, combining multiple sensing functions into one unified structure to improve object detection capability while managing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The side mirror assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides traditional side viewing capability while also housing multiple cameras and sensors for autonomous driving, creating a multi-functional component that addresses both traditional and emerging automotive needs
2Area of stationary object
If cameras are positioned to provide uninterrupted 180-degree field of view, then the coverage area is improved, but the manufacturing precision and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The field of view is divided and captured by multiple cameras positioned at different orientations (opposite direction, forward direction, perpendicular direction), with each camera responsible for a specific angular sector, collectively providing uninterrupted 180-degree coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-camera 2D imaging to multi-camera 360-degree spatial coverage by adding cameras at different angular positions and orientations, creating comprehensive three-dimensional field of view coverage
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor assembly is designed to withstand high vibrations without vehicle modifications, then the adaptability is improved, but the structural strength requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates vibration damping support structures and rigid mounting mechanisms designed in advance to withstand high vibrations during autonomous vehicle operation, protecting sensitive sensors from vibration damage without requiring vehicle modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure utilizes composite materials and rigid construction to achieve high vibration resistance, combining different material properties to create a structure that is both strong and adaptable to harsh operating conditions
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 ensures a comprehensive and stable field of view for autonomous driving, enhancing object detection and navigation capabilities while withstanding high vibration conditions without requiring vehicle modifications, allowing for safe and precise maneuvering.
Implementation Method 1
a lidar sensor configured to provide a field of view in the direction of forward travel of the autonomous vehicle
Implementation Method 2
The side mirror assembly may include one or more of a radar sensor, a lidar sensor, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU)
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.