Portable Laser Sensor Calibration Apparatus for On-Site ADAS Alignment
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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 automotive service centers for calibration, which is inconvenient, especially for on-site glass repairs.
Innovation Solution
A mobile calibration apparatus using a target structure with a laser emitter to align components for sensor calibration, allowing calibration to be performed at any location, including on-site, by positioning a target structure along a datum line and using a laser emitter to align the components with the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current calibration tools are used, then sensor calibration can be performed, but the tools are bulky and stationary requiring vehicles to be taken to service centers
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system is divided into separate portable components: a calibration target that can be positioned independently, a laser emitter device that can be moved to different locations, and a sensor calibration system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for portability while working together to perform calibration outside traditional service centers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical alignment tools with optical methods using laser emitters and targets. The laser-based alignment system eliminates the need for large mechanical positioning devices, enabling portable calibration while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If calibration is performed at service centers, then proper calibration can be achieved, but it requires vehicle transport and loses time
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target is pre-configured with specific geometric features and reflective properties that enable immediate alignment and calibration. The laser emitter is pre-calibrated to emit at specific angles, allowing the system to be deployed and operational quickly without extensive setup or vehicle transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target serves as an intermediary between the laser emitter and the vehicle sensors. This intermediate element facilitates precise alignment and calibration measurements, enabling accurate sensor calibration to be performed at any location rather than requiring transport to specialized service centers.
3Ease of operation
If on-site glass repair is performed, then convenience is improved, but sensor calibration alignment becomes difficult without proper tools
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target incorporates high-contrast visual features and reflective surfaces that create distinct optical signatures. The laser emitter produces visible alignment beams that make positioning and alignment straightforward, transforming a difficult measurement task into an easily observable process that can be performed on-site during glass repair.
Solution Approach 2:
Complex mechanical alignment tools are replaced with optical alignment methods using laser beams and reflective targets. This substitution simplifies the alignment process, making it accessible to technicians performing on-site glass repair without requiring specialized calibration equipment or facilities.
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 flexible and efficient sensor calibration outside traditional service centers, improving convenience and accessibility for vehicle owners by allowing calibration to be performed at any desired location.
Implementation Method 1
a second reference structure aligned with a midpoint of an opposite side of the vehicle such that a laser emitter of the second reference structure is oriented toward the first reference structure
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus comprises a target structure (101) having a reflective surface (102) and a crossbar structure oriented parallel to an axel of the vehicle; a first reference structure (107) having a pass-through channel (108) and an aiming surface (109); a second reference structure (111) having a laser emitter (102). In the method the first reference structure is aligned with a midpoint of a side of the vehicle nearest to the target structure and the second reference structure with the laser emitter is aligned with a midpoint of a side of the vehicle furthest from the target structure with the laser emitter oriented toward the target structure. The emitted laser beam passes through the channel of the first reference structure and is reflected by the reflective surface. The relative angle and alignment of the target structure at the reflection position is adjusted such that the reflected beam is reflected onto a designated region of the aiming surface on the first structure. The laser measurement may be in the form of a line generator to provide visual aid to the user in alignment.