Portable Sensor Calibration Target for Autonomous Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in efficiently calibrating their detection systems, which are essential for navigation and operation, as existing calibration methods often require specific locations and are not portable, leading to increased operational costs and reduced flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A portable sensor calibration target system comprising foldable panels, a frame assembly, and an intensity calibration fabric, allowing for on-site calibration of multiple detection systems without the need for dedicated calibration locations, using a method that involves assembling the frame, attaching panels, and optionally using an intensity calibration fabric to calibrate lidar systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional calibration methods are used, then calibration accuracy can be maintained, but the vehicle requires trips to specific calibration locations, increasing operational time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system is segmented into a portable target device that can be deployed at any location, separating the calibration function from fixed infrastructure. The target device includes modular components (frame, panels, reflective elements) that can be assembled and disassembled, enabling calibration to be performed anywhere rather than requiring trips to dedicated calibration facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
A portable calibration target device serves as an intermediary between the detection systems and the calibration process. This mediator contains reflective panels and high-contrast patterns that enable the detection systems to self-calibrate at any location, eliminating the need for specialized calibration infrastructure or locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed calibration locations are used, then calibration infrastructure is simplified, but operational flexibility and mobility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The portable calibration target device is designed to be universally deployable across multiple locations and compatible with various detection system configurations. The target incorporates multiple reflective panels, high-contrast patterns, and geometric features that can serve different calibration requirements, making it adaptable to diverse operational environments without requiring location-specific infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system transitions from a static, fixed-location infrastructure to a dynamic, portable device that can be moved and deployed as needed. The target device includes collapsible frames, removable panels, and portable mounting options, enabling it to adapt to different locations and operational requirements while maintaining calibration functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable sensor calibration target includes a frame assembly, a first panel, and a second panel. The frame assembly may include three legs and a plurality of frame edges that is configured to form a first frame and a second frame and is configured to be held at a pre-selected height above ground by the legs. The first panel is removably attached to the first frame in an unfolded position, and includes a plurality of boards and a plurality of hinges connecting the plurality of boards. The first panel is configured to fold at the plurality of hinges into a folded position. The second panel is removably attached to the second frame adjacent to the first frame. The first panel and the second panel meet to form an edge, which is detectable by a detection system of a vehicle for calibrating the detection system.