Radar Reflector Vehicle Tracking for Lane-Free Field Following
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for autonomous vehicle control are not applicable in agricultural settings due to the absence of fixed lanes, making it difficult to maintain consistent distances between vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A data processing device equipped with a radar sensor and reflector system that determines the position and trajectory of a leading vehicle, allowing a following vehicle to maintain a constant distance and alignment using wireless communication and signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If radar-based distance regulating cruise controls are used to control vehicle distance, then the distance to a vehicle driving ahead can be determined, but the system cannot be used in agriculture since there are no lanes on agricultural land
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by using radar reflectors attached to the leading vehicle to create artificial reference points that mimic the function of fixed lane markings. These reflectors return radar signals to following vehicles, enabling them to determine position and maintain consistent spacing without requiring actual fixed routes or lanes in the agricultural environment
Solution Approach 2:
The radar reflectors serve as an intermediary between the leading vehicle and following vehicles. Instead of following vehicles directly detecting the leading vehicle's position, the reflectors mediate by capturing and returning radar signals, creating a reliable reference system that enables distance regulation in open agricultural fields without fixed infrastructure
2Measurement precision
If radar reflectors are used to determine vehicle position, then the position can be determined in open fields, but the system must distinguish reflector reflections from other signal sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by using multiple radar reflectors positioned at different locations on the leading vehicle. This allows the following vehicle's radar system to detect multiple distinct reflection sources, enabling more precise position determination through triangulation or pattern recognition, while the segmented reflection pattern also helps distinguish genuine reflector signals from other signal sources
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 precise control of following vehicles to align and maintain a consistent distance from a leading vehicle, even in open agricultural fields without fixed routes, enhancing agricultural operations.
Implementation Method 1
The second vehicle has at least one radar sensor. That is a sensor designed to receive a radar beam and convert it into a signal.
Implementation Method 2
The radar reflector is designed to reflect the radar beam sent out by the radar sender.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement with a data processing device and a second vehicle (103), which comprises at least one radar sensor (107). The data processing device is designed to recognize at least one radar reflector (105) which is attached to a first vehicle (101), in a signal of the at least one radar sensor (107). The data processing device is designed to locate the at least one radar reflector (105) by means of the signal.