Portable Sensor Calibration Rig With Foldable Targets for ADAS Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor calibration tools for vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are bulky and stationary, requiring vehicles to be taken to service centers for calibration, which is inconvenient and inefficient, especially for small facilities or on-site repairs.
Innovation Solution
A portable sensor calibration apparatus with a base plate, adjustable legs, an upright support member, a crossbar member, and detachable reflective surfaces, allowing for flexible positioning and alignment of sensors, enabling calibration at various locations and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current calibration tools are used, then sensor calibration can be performed, but the apparatus is bulky and stationary requiring service center visits
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration apparatus is divided into separate modular components including a base unit with positioning legs, an upright support member, a crossbar assembly with reflective surfaces, and alignment structures. These detachable components can be transported separately and assembled at the calibration location, enabling portability while maintaining functional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements including position-adjustable legs with multiple fixed positions, detachable crossbar members that can be coupled at different heights, and reflective surfaces that can be positioned at various angles. This dynamic configurability allows the same compact components to adapt to different vehicle types and calibration requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vehicles are brought to service centers for calibration, then proper calibration environment is provided, but facility space is wasted and on-site repair is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration apparatus is designed to function in multiple environments including outdoor locations, indoor facilities of varying sizes, and service centers. The self-contained design with integrated alignment structures and reflective surfaces enables reliable calibration operation regardless of location, eliminating the requirement for specialized service center infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus includes self-contained alignment structures with visual indicators and reference marks that enable operators to perform accurate calibration without requiring external calibration equipment or specialized facility infrastructure. The system is self-sufficient and can be deployed independently at any location.
3Area of stationary object
If small facilities are used for calibration, then accessibility is improved, but space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The crossbar member with reflective surfaces nests within or attaches to the upright support member, which in turn attaches to the base unit. This nested configuration allows all components to be stored in a compact form factor that minimizes facility space requirements while enabling full deployment when calibration is performed.
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 apparatus allows for efficient and flexible sensor calibration outside service centers, preserving space in small facilities and accommodating different vehicle configurations, ensuring accurate sensor alignment and calibration.
Implementation Method 1
a number of reflective surfaces detachably coupled to the crossbar member
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for calibration of vehicle sensors comprising a target structure and an alignment structure. The target structure comprises a portable arrangement, including a number of folding legs configurable into at least a first position. The target structure is further operable to be reconfigured to accommodate a variety of vehicles having different sensor placements.