Radar Sensor Test Mounting for Multi-Axis Fascia Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radar sensor testing methods are limited by the lack of flexibility and complexity in mounting units for radar test rigs, leading to increased cost and weight, and restricted movement of vehicle parts relative to the sensor, which affects the accuracy of radar performance verification.
Innovation Solution
A sensor mounting apparatus with a three-frame system allowing for independent movement of vehicle parts in at least three degrees of freedom (forward and back, left and right, up and down, yaw and pitch) relative to the sensor, using lightweight materials like aluminum and plastic, and potentially automated by servo motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex mounting configurations are used to increase the range of motion of fascia relative to the sensor, then the flexibility and control for verification tests is improved, but the cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into multiple independent mounting units, each responsible for a specific degree of freedom. The first mounting unit provides positioning in normal direction, the second mounting unit provides azimuth adjustment, and the third mounting unit provides elevation adjustment. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized independently, reducing overall complexity and weight while maintaining full range of motion capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting units are arranged in a nested configuration where the second mounting unit is positioned on the first mounting unit, and the third mounting unit is positioned on the second mounting unit. This nesting allows the components to share space and structural support, reducing the overall footprint and weight of the system while enabling sequential adjustment of multiple degrees of freedom.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex mounting configurations are used to increase the range of motion of fascia relative to the sensor, then the flexibility and control for verification tests is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into multiple independent mounting units, each responsible for a specific degree of freedom. The first mounting unit provides positioning in normal direction, the second mounting unit provides azimuth adjustment, and the third mounting unit provides elevation adjustment. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized independently, reducing overall complexity and weight while maintaining full range of motion capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Each mounting unit is designed to perform a specific function that can be independently adjusted and controlled. The mounting units can work together to provide comprehensive positioning capabilities while maintaining simple individual structures. This multi-functional design allows the system to achieve complex overall functionality through simple, standardized components.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated software control is used to control complex mounting configurations, then the range of motion control is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each mounting unit is equipped with independent adjustment mechanisms that can be manually operated or controlled through simple interfaces. The units can be adjusted independently without requiring complex coordinated control software, allowing operators to directly control each degree of freedom through straightforward mechanical or electrical adjustment mechanisms.
4Measurement precision
If restricted movement of fascia relative to sensor is used in current testing methods, then the device complexity is reduced, but the accuracy of radar performance verification is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into multiple independent mounting units, each responsible for a specific degree of freedom. The first mounting unit provides positioning in normal direction, the second mounting unit provides azimuth adjustment, and the third mounting unit provides elevation adjustment. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized independently, reducing overall complexity and weight while maintaining full range of motion capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting units are designed to provide dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing the fascia to be positioned and oriented in multiple directions relative to the sensor. Each mounting unit can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired configuration for different test scenarios, enabling precise control over the relative positioning while maintaining simple individual component designs.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a sensor mounting apparatus and associated method, e.g. for use in testing of a vehicle sensor in an anechoic chamber. The apparatus features a sensor mounting device for mounting the sensor and a vehicle part mounting device comprised of first, second and third frames. Each frame is movable in a different direction relative to the sensor and each other frame, e.g. either: adjustable forward and back, left and right, up and down, and/or via roll, yaw and pitch. The outermost third frame further includes an attachment means for holding a vehicle part (e.g. a vehicle fascia/bumper) in place and provision for further adjustment of the part relative to the sensor in use, e.g. via a pivot mounting enabling yaw movement.