Modular Sensor Kits for Vehicle Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle sensor systems lack modularity and adaptability to fit different vehicle sizes and configurations, leading to inefficiencies in sensor placement and data integration, which can result in incomplete surroundings perception and increased risk of accidents.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular sensor kits comprising adjustable sensor roof pods and bumpers equipped with LIDAR sensors, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, processing units, and communication devices, allowing for customizable configurations and easy maintenance, with a leveling assembly to ensure accurate sensor mounting and reduced interference between sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed sensor configurations are used in vehicle systems, then sensor placement is simplified, but adaptability to different vehicle sizes and configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into modular components including sensor pods, sensor arrays, and sensor kits that can be independently configured and installed on different vehicle types. Each module contains specific sensors (LIDAR, cameras, ultrasonic sensors) that can be selectively assembled to match various vehicle configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable mounting mechanisms that allow dynamic adaptation to different vehicle sizes and geometries. The modular design enables the sensor configuration to be changed based on the specific vehicle being instrumented, providing both simplicity of installation and versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular sensor kits are implemented, then adaptability to different vehicle configurations is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular sensor components are designed with universal mounting interfaces and standardized connection protocols that work across different vehicle types. The sensor pods and arrays can be universally applied to various vehicle configurations without requiring custom integration for each platform, reducing the perceived complexity despite the modular architecture.
3Volume of moving object
If multiple sensors are closely positioned, then space utilization is improved, but interference between sensors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor mounting system incorporates localized shielding and positioning features that are specifically designed for each sensor type. The mounting structure provides targeted support and isolation for LIDAR, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, allowing them to be positioned in close proximity while maintaining optimal performance and minimizing mutual interference through carefully designed local mounting characteristics.
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 modular design enhances the ability to accurately perceive a vehicle's surroundings, reduces blind spots, and minimizes the risk of accidents by providing adaptable and reliable sensor configurations that can be easily maintained and expanded to fit various vehicle types.
Implementation Method 1
bumpers equipped with LIDAR sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicle sensor systems include modular sensor kits having one or more pods (e.g., sensor roof pods) and/or one or more bumpers (e.g., sensor bumpers). The sensor roof pods are configured to couple to a vehicle. A sensor roof pod may be positioned atop a vehicle proximate a front of the vehicle, proximate a back of the vehicle, or at any position along a top side of the vehicle being coupled, for example, using a mounting shim or a tripod. The sensor roof pods can include sensors (e.g., LIDAR sensors, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, etc.), processing units, control systems (e.g., temperature and/or environmental control systems), and communication devices (e.g., networking and/or wireless devices).