Protected Reflector Array for Vehicle Sensor Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging and sensor systems deployed on vehicles require regular calibration for accurate measurements, especially when in motion, necessitating flexible calibration targets that can autonomously track sensor systems for real-time assessments.
Innovation Solution
A reflector array with a rotating support and adjustable reflectors that can pivot to align with an illumination source, allowing for real-time adjustment of azimuthal and elevation angles to direct light towards imaging systems, while also having a low-profile design and protective cover mechanism for the reflectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the reflector array uses a rotating support with multiple reflectors for autonomous tracking, then the calibration accuracy and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector array is divided into multiple independent reflectors (first reflector, second reflector, etc.) mounted on a rotating support. Each reflector can be independently positioned and angled, allowing the system to achieve complex tracking and calibration functions through coordinated movement of segmented components rather than a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating support enables the reflector array to dynamically adjust its orientation and tracking position in real-time. The support rotates about a vertical axis to change azimuthal direction, while elevation adjustment actuators modify the tilt angle of individual reflectors, creating a dynamic system that can autonomously track moving sensors and adapt to changing calibration requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the reflector array provides real-time tracking capability for moving sensors, then the adaptability and calibration effectiveness are improved, but the mechanical complexity and number of moving parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating support serves multiple functions simultaneously: it positions the reflector array in different azimuthal directions, supports multiple individual reflectors, and works with elevation actuators to achieve various elevation angles. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function, managing complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect the position and movement of the imaging system, providing feedback to the control mechanism. This feedback enables the rotating support and elevation actuators to automatically adjust the reflector positions in real-time, achieving autonomous tracking without requiring complex manual control systems.
3Reliability
If the reflector array uses protective covers for the reflectors, then the reliability and durability are improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The protective covers are designed to nest over the reflectors when not in use, with each cover fitting snugly around its corresponding reflector. This nesting arrangement minimizes the space required for storage and protection mechanisms, reducing the overall footprint and structural complexity while ensuring reliable protection for each reflector element.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective covers are configured to be automatically positioned by the rotation of the rotating support itself. As the support rotates to different azimuthal positions, the covers naturally align with and protect the reflectors without requiring separate actuation mechanisms, allowing the existing rotational motion to serve the dual purpose of positioning and protection.
4Ease of manufacture
If the reflector array maintains a low-profile design, then the structural simplicity and ease of installation are improved, but the ability to accommodate large reflectors or multiple reflectors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of expanding the reflector array horizontally with large individual reflectors, the design uses the vertical dimension by incorporating multiple smaller reflectors at different positions on the rotating support. The elevation adjustment capability adds another dimensional degree of freedom, allowing smaller reflectors to cover the same angular range that would require larger fixed reflectors, thus maintaining a compact footprint while achieving adequate coverage area.
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 accurate calibration of imaging systems in motion by providing a flexible and scalable solution that maintains pointing accuracy and durability, even in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
rotating the rotating support about the array axis of rotation via the array actuator such that the plurality of reflectors reflect light from an illumination source in an azimuthal direction towards the remote sensing system
Data Source
AI summary
A reflector array includes a base, a rotating support pivotally coupled to the base, and an array actuator comprising a rotating element coupled to the rotating support. The reflector array also includes a plurality of reflectors attached to the rotating support such that the plurality of reflectors rotate in unison in conjunction with one another relative to the base as the array actuator rotates the rotating element. First and second reflectors are coupled to the rotating support via separate reflector support elements that are rotatable to adjust elevation angles of the first and second reflectors.