Boresighted Radar-Camera Gimbal for UAV Obstacle Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current object detection and avoidance systems for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles, such as UAVs, are costly and complex, making them unsuitable for mass production and efficient use in routine tasks like transporting goods and people, especially as the number of such vehicles is expected to increase.
Innovation Solution
A dual sensor system combining a RADAR system with a gimbal-mounted optical camera, where the RADAR transmit and receive antennas and the optical camera are bore-sighted and moved in unison, allowing for simultaneous detection and precise location of objects using the RADAR system's wide field of view and the camera's image processing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current object detection and avoidance systems are used for autonomous vehicles, then detection capability is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines RADAR and optical camera systems into a unified sensor platform with shared mechanical support (gimbal), power supply, and processing infrastructure. This merging reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the detection capabilities of both sensor types through coordinated operation and data fusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal-mounted platform serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, positioning, and coordination for both RADAR and camera systems simultaneously. This universal platform eliminates the need for separate mounting structures and control systems for each sensor type, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If current object detection and avoidance systems are used for autonomous vehicles, then detection capability is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging RADAR and camera systems onto a single gimbal-mounted platform with shared components (power supply, mechanical support, processing units), the patent reduces the total bill of materials and assembly requirements, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while preserving detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal gimbal platform performs multiple functions for both sensor systems, eliminating redundant components and reducing manufacturing complexity. This multi-functional design allows for standardized production processes and reduced assembly steps, directly impacting manufacturing cost reduction.
3Reliability
If RADAR and camera systems operate independently, then each sensor type functions optimally, but system coordination and data integration become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the operational control of RADAR and camera systems through a shared gimbal mounting system, enabling synchronized movement and coordinated data collection. This physical merging simplifies the coordination complexity by providing a unified mechanical reference frame for both sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the gimbal's position and movement information is shared between RADAR and camera control systems, enabling real-time coordination. This feedback loop ensures that both sensors maintain optimal alignment and timing without requiring complex independent control algorithms.
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 dual sensor system provides a cost-effective and robust solution for object detection and avoidance, capable of detecting objects with high precision and simplicity, outperforming more complex systems by leveraging the strengths of both RADAR and camera technologies.
Implementation Method 1
A RADAR system includes a RADAR transmit antenna and a RADAR receive antenna
Implementation Method 2
an optical camera attached to the gimbal
Data Source
AI summary
Collision avoidance is an important issue for unmanned autonomous vehicles (UAVs). As such, UAVs can be outfitted with a simple and inexpensive sensor for use in collision avoidance. The sensor can be attached to a gimbal and can include a RADAR transmit antenna, a RADAR receive antenna, and an optical camera. The RADAR transmit antenna and RADAR receive antenna are part of a RADAR system. The optical camera and the RADAR system are bore sighted to one another by aligning their fields of view. The optical camera captures an image of a target when the RADAR system indicates the target is in the field of view. The RADAR system and image data can be used to determine a target trajectory. The target trajectory can be used to avoid a collision with the target.