Portable Sensor Calibration Mount With Suction-Cup Vehicle Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor calibration tools for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems in vehicles are bulky and stationary, requiring vehicles to be taken to service centers for calibration, which is inconvenient, especially for on-site glass repairs.
Innovation Solution
A portable vehicle sensor calibration apparatus that can be mounted on a support vehicle using suction cups and alignment instruments, allowing for flexible and precise calibration of sensors at various locations, including on-site, with a detachable and re-assemblable design for enhanced mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current calibration tools are used, then calibration can be performed, but the equipment is bulky and stationary requiring service center visits
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration apparatus is divided into separate modular components including a mounting assembly with suction cup, a support structure with vertical member and crossbar, and a reflective target assembly. These components can be detached and stored separately, enabling portable transport while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates adjustable elements such as the vertical support member that can be positioned at different heights, the crossbar that can be adjusted horizontally, and the reflective target that can be repositioned. This dynamic adjustability allows the same compact portable structure to accommodate various vehicle types and calibration requirements.
2Ease of operation
If portable calibration apparatus is used, then mobility is improved, but mounting stability on various surfaces may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly incorporates a suction cup that utilizes vacuum pressure to adhere to smooth surfaces such as vehicle windshields or walls. The suction cup creates a reliable mechanical bond without requiring permanent installation, enabling the portable apparatus to be securely mounted on various surfaces while maintaining mobility between calibration locations.
3Ease of operation
If detachable components are used for portability, then assembly/disassembly is easier, but alignment precision during reassembly may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable components incorporate self-aligning features such as keyed connections, tapered fits, or indexed positioning mechanisms that automatically guide parts into correct alignment during reassembly. This reduces the skill level required for assembly while maintaining precise alignment of the reflective target with the vehicle sensors.
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
Enables efficient and precise calibration of vehicle sensors outside traditional service centers, accommodating various vehicle types and surfaces, and providing stability in adverse conditions, thus improving maintenance convenience and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The calibration apparatus may mount upon the support vehicle using at least one suction cup
Data Source
AI summary
A portable vehicle sensor calibration apparatus having an anchor mechanism such that the apparatus may be mounted upon a surface. The anchor mechanism may comprise a suction cup mechanism. The vehicle sensor calibration apparatus may comprise a second anchor mechanism. The vehicle sensor calibration apparatus may be operable to mount onto a body of a support vehicle other than the vehicle having sensors requiring calibration.