Radar Sensor Zone Reconfiguration for Blind Spot and Rear Crossing Path Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blind spot detection and rear crossing path collision systems using radar sensors face challenges in accurately determining the trajectory, speed, and threat level of approaching vehicles, leading to potential false alarms and inadequate warnings, especially when vehicles are traveling in reverse gear.
Innovation Solution
A combined blind spot detection and rear crossing path collision warning system equipped with multiple beam selection control and programmable range capability radar sensors, mounted rearward of the B pillar, continuously monitors the vehicle's state and surroundings to determine the speed, trajectory, and threat level of approaching vehicles, providing appropriate warnings and potentially initiating countermeasures when a collision threat is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If radar sensors with fixed programmable range capability are used for blind spot detection, then false detection of objects beyond adjacent lanes is avoided, but the system cannot accurately detect vehicles in rear crossing path zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the radar detection zones adjustable and reconfigurable based on vehicle operation mode. The control unit dynamically modifies the detection zones of the radar sensors to extend into rear crossing path zones when the vehicle is in reverse gear, while maintaining fixed zones during forward travel. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its detection capabilities to different operational contexts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by enabling the same radar sensors to perform multiple detection functions: blind spot detection during forward travel and rear crossing path detection during reverse travel. The control unit configures the radar sensors to serve different detection purposes based on the vehicle's travel direction, making the system versatile without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each function.
2Reliability
If multiple radar sensors are added to expand detection zones, then rear crossing path detection capability is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the existing blind spot detection radar sensors perform dual functions: detecting vehicles in blind spots during forward travel and detecting vehicles in rear crossing path zones during reverse travel. The control unit reconfigures the detection parameters and zones of these existing sensors based on travel direction, eliminating the need for separate dedicated rear crossing path sensors and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamics by dynamically reconfiguring the detection zones and parameters of existing radar sensors based on the vehicle's travel mode. When reverse gear is detected, the control unit extends the detection zones of existing sensors to cover rear crossing path areas, allowing the system to adapt its capabilities without adding physical hardware components.
3Reliability
If the detection zone is extended to cover rear crossing path zones, then collision warning capability is improved, but false alarms from objects beyond adjacent lanes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by conditionally extending detection zones only when the vehicle is in reverse gear. The control unit monitors the travel direction and activates extended rear crossing path detection zones only during reverse operation, while maintaining standard blind spot detection zones during forward travel. This dynamic activation based on operational context prevents false alarms from objects beyond adjacent lanes while enabling collision warning capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying different detection zone configurations to different spatial regions based on travel mode. During reverse travel, the system extends detection coverage specifically into rear crossing path zones while maintaining appropriate limits in other areas. This localized extension of detection capability ensures collision warning coverage without unnecessarily expanding detection into areas that would generate false alarms.
4Measurement precision
If radar sensors are mounted rearward of the B pillar, then detection of approaching vehicles is improved, but the system requires additional installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by positioning radar sensors to serve dual purposes: mounted rearward of the B pillar to optimize detection of approaching vehicles in rear crossing path zones during reverse travel, while also maintaining effective blind spot detection during forward travel. This single sensor location provides optimal performance for both functions, eliminating the need for separate sensor installations for different detection purposes.
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 system effectively reduces false alarms by accurately classifying objects and estimating collision threats, providing timely warnings and automatic countermeasures to mitigate rear crossing path collisions, while ensuring the radar sensors operate within specifications.
Implementation Method 1
detecting possible objects in a driver's blind spot or rear crossing path using radar based sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle is equipped with blind spot detection and rear crossing path collision warning system. Programmable maximum range limit radar sensors mounted on the vehicle are used to provide blind spot object detection warning when the vehicle is traveling in a forward direction and rear crossing path collision warning when the vehicle is traveling in a rearward direction.