Vehicle Optical Sensor Calibration Using a Graduated Laser Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current calibration methods for optical sensors in vehicles are time-consuming, cumbersome, prone to human error, and require manual measurements, which are not universally applicable across different vehicle manufacturers and models, and may pose safety risks during dynamic calibration.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system and method using a graduated mounting bar with lasers and a control unit to automatically determine distances and calibrate optical sensors, utilizing a projection surface for image projection and a control unit to adjust the optical axis based on pre-stored data, enabling quick and reliable calibration regardless of manufacturer or model.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual measurement methods are used for calibration, then the calibration process can be performed with simple equipment, but the calibration time increases and human error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement systems with an automated laser-based measurement system. The laser device automatically measures distances to targets on the vehicle, and the control unit processes these measurements to determine calibration parameters, eliminating the need for manual transcription and calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system performs self-measurement and self-calibration. The laser device mounted on the vehicle measures distances to targets, and the control unit automatically processes these measurements to determine the relative position between the vehicle and test bay without requiring external manual intervention.
2Measurement precision
If multiple manual measurements are performed and transcribed, then calibration accuracy can be achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single integrated system. The laser device simultaneously measures multiple distances to different targets, and the control unit processes all measurements together to determine calibration parameters, reducing the number of separate operations required.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that automatically processes laser measurements and calculates calibration parameters. It receives distance measurements from the laser device and automatically determines the relative position between the vehicle and test bay, eliminating the need for manual transcription and calculation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional calibration systems are used, then they work for specific vehicle types, but they are not universally applicable across different manufacturers and models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal calibration system that can accommodate different vehicle types and manufacturers. The system uses standardized targets mounted on the vehicle and a laser device that can measure distances to various target positions, allowing the same system to calibrate different vehicle models without requiring manufacturer-specific equipment.
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 system allows for rapid, accurate, and safe calibration of optical sensors, eliminating the need for manual measurements and reducing calibration time, while being applicable to various vehicles and conditions, including on-road tests.
Implementation Method 1
a first laser mounted to the graduated mounting bar and positionable left to right with respect to the vehicle and along the graduated mounting bar, the first laser electrically coupled to the control unit, the first laser configured to obtain a first distance to the first target along a first axis
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for calibrating a vehicle optical sensor includes positioning the vehicle in a test station having a projection surface in view of the optical sensor, positioning targets on two hubs of the vehicle, and positioning lasers left to right that are mounted on a graduated mounting bar in front of the vehicle. The graduated mounting bar includes gradations indicative of a lateral position of the lasers on the graduated mounting bar. The lasers are configured to obtain a distance to the targets and distances along respective axes and between the lasers. The calibration is performed based on the obtained distances and once the vehicle's position in the test station is known with respect to the test station.