Multi-Axis Joint Assembly for Precise Radar Fascia Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current joint devices for multi-axis motion fixtures in radar sensor testing are complex, costly, and heavy, limiting the range of motion and requiring complex software control, which complicates the precise measurement and verification of radar sensor performance behind vehicle fascias.
Innovation Solution
A joint device with a first end portion coupled to a linear actuator, a connector portion, and a second end portion for a rotatable object, featuring a hinge joint with one axis and a universal joint with two axes, allowing translation of linear motion into rotary motion and enabling rotation around two axes with a fixed pivot point, facilitating up to six degrees of freedom in motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex joint configurations are used to increase the range of motion of fascia relative to the sensor/robot arm mount, then the range of motion is improved, but the device complexity, cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a universal joint and a spherical joint into a single integrated joint device that connects the robot arm mount to the fascia. This merged structure provides multi-axis movement capability (improving range of motion) while being implemented as one compact component rather than multiple separate joints, thereby reducing overall device complexity and weight compared to using multiple independent joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint device is designed to provide multiple functions: it enables universal joint movement (rotation about two perpendicular axes) and spherical joint movement (rotation about a ball joint axis) within a single component. This multi-functionality allows the fascia to achieve complex orientations and positions relative to the sensor while using a single joint device instead of multiple specialized joints, reducing system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated software control is used to control complex joint configurations, then the range of motion is improved, but the device complexity and control system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the universal and spherical joint functionalities into a single joint device with inherent mechanical degrees of freedom, the patent reduces the need for complex software control algorithms. The mechanical structure itself provides the range of motion through its built-in joints, requiring simpler control logic compared to coordinating multiple independent actuators and joints through software.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators and joints are used to achieve rotation around two axes with a fixed pivot point, then the rotational capability is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a universal joint (providing rotation about two perpendicular axes) with a spherical joint (providing rotation about a ball joint axis) into a single integrated structure. This combination achieves rotation around multiple axes with a fixed pivot point while using one compact joint device instead of multiple separate actuators and joints, thereby reducing the overall weight of the mounting unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint device provides universal joint functionality (two perpendicular rotation axes) and spherical joint functionality (ball joint rotation) within a single component. This multi-functionality enables complex rotational capabilities while avoiding the weight penalty of implementing each rotational degree of freedom with a separate actuator and joint.
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 joint device provides flexible and accurate control of the fascia position relative to the radar sensor, reducing weight and cost, enabling precise radar sensor testing and verification with manual or automated movement in multiple axes, including pitch, yaw, and roll.
Implementation Method 1
a first joint, being a hinge joint having one axis of movement, connecting the first shaft to the second shaft
Implementation Method 2
a second joint, being a cross joint having two axes of movement, connecting the third shaft to the second shaft
Data Source
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AI summary
A joint device (15) for use with a mounting apparatus (10), such as used in vehicle sensor testing. The device comprises a first end section (21), a second intermediate connector section (23) and a third end section (25), wherein a joint is provided between each section. Particularly, a hinge joint (24) having one axis of movement (D-D) connects the first and second sections, while a cross joint (27) connects the second and third sections, enabling two axes of movement (E-E, F-F). Three joint devices are assembled into a mounting apparatus that has a first frame (12) moveable relative to a second frame (14) by linear actuators (16). The joint devices enable controlled tilting of the first frame (12) about yaw and pitch axes, and also translational movement in z-direction by activating the linear actuators.