Optical Projector for Vehicle Sensor Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle safety systems require precise calibration of onboard sensors, which is challenging due to the need for manual measurement of distances and angles, and test drives may be impractical for some service shops, especially those with geographic or time constraints.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle service system equipped with an optical projector and processor to project images and simulate test drive conditions, allowing for precise alignment and calibration of sensors without manual measurement, and to emulate test drive scenarios within a service bay, using optical and radar emitters to simulate sensor inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to position calibration targets, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the time required for calibration increases and operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement systems with an optical projection system. The projector emits light to create visual references on the ground, eliminating the need for technicians to manually measure and mark positions. This substitution of mechanical measurement with optical field-based guidance reduces calibration time while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a projector as an intermediary device between the calibration system and the technician. The projector serves as a mediator that translates complex measurement data into simple visual ground markings, allowing technicians to follow projected guides rather than performing complex manual measurements. This intermediary reduces operational complexity and time requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If physical calibration targets are placed at precise locations, then sensor alignment accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the calibration setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical calibration targets and mechanical positioning equipment with an optical projection system. Instead of placing and adjusting physical targets at precise locations, the projector creates virtual visual references on the ground. This reduces the physical complexity of the calibration setup while maintaining the precision needed for sensor alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the calibration information through projected ground markings. Rather than requiring physical targets and complex mechanical setups, the system projects a two-dimensional visual guide onto the ground that replicates the necessary alignment information, simplifying the physical setup while preserving alignment precision.
3Reliability
If test drives are conducted for sensor calibration, then comprehensive sensor performance can be verified, but the time loss and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration actions using the optical projection system before actual vehicle operation or test drives are needed. By establishing accurate sensor alignment through projected ground markings in the service bay, the system eliminates or reduces the need for subsequent test drives to verify calibration, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential calibration function from the test drive process itself. Instead of requiring actual vehicle movement and road testing, the system isolates and performs the critical alignment calibration function using projected visual references in a stationary service bay environment, separating this essential function from the time-consuming test drive requirement.
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
Facilitates quick and precise alignment of vehicle sensors and simulates test drive conditions, enabling effective calibration and reducing the need for physical targets and actual test drives, thereby improving sensor accuracy and efficiency in service procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an optical projector configured to project an optical image onto a surface in proximity to the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a radar emitter configured to emit radar-frequency electromagnetic energy representative of either stationary or moving objects
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle service system and method to determine spatial parameters of a vehicle, employing a display system under processor control, to display or project visible indicia onto surfaces in proximity to a vehicle undergoing a safety system service or inspection identifying one or more locations, relative to the determined vehicle centerline or thrust line, at which a calibration fixture, optical target, or simulated test drive imagery is visible for observation by a sensor onboard the vehicle.