Side Mirror Sensor Assembly for Blind-Spot and Vibration Stability
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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 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
1Measurement precision
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:
The patent combines multiple cameras (first camera on side mirror, second camera on roof, third camera on rear) into a unified sensor assembly that provides comprehensive field of view. This merging approach improves object detection capability while managing system complexity through integrated design and centralized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The side mirror assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a traditional side mirror for visibility, houses the first camera for lateral detection, and provides mounting for additional sensors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, improving detection capability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If cameras are positioned to eliminate blind spots and provide uninterrupted field of view, then measurement precision is improved, but the number of components and mounting requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions cameras across multiple dimensions and locations: the first camera on the side mirror assembly, the second camera on the roof, and the third camera on the rear. This three-dimensional distribution eliminates blind spots and provides uninterrupted 360-degree coverage while utilizing existing vehicle structures for mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The side mirror assembly itself serves as a mounting structure for the first camera, utilizing its own structure rather than requiring separate mounting hardware. This self-service approach reduces additional mounting requirements while achieving comprehensive field of view coverage.
3Reliability
If the sensor assembly is designed to withstand vibrations and road conditions, then reliability is improved, but structural complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sensor assembly with vibration resistance features built in before deployment, such as secure mounting mechanisms and robust structural design. This beforehand cushioning approach ensures reliability under vibrations and road conditions without requiring complex active stabilization systems during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the sensor assembly: the side mirror assembly uses rigid mounting for the first camera to withstand vibrations, while the roof-mounted second camera utilizes the vehicle's existing structural support. This local quality approach improves reliability without uniformly increasing structural complexity throughout the entire system.
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 sensor field of view, enhancing object detection and navigation capabilities under challenging conditions, while being adaptable and compatible with existing vehicles without requiring modifications.
Implementation Method 1
the side mirror assembly further comprises 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.