Vehicle Radar Vertical Alignment Using Rotary Antenna and Stopper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle radar systems require a separate horizontal sensor for automatic vertical alignment, making the process costly and complex, and manual alignment is cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A vertical alignment apparatus for vehicle radars that includes a rotatable antenna, an antenna rotary member driven by a motor, and a stopper to set a zero point for alignment, allowing for vertical alignment without a horizontal sensor, using an elastic member to support and control the antenna's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automatic vertical alignment is performed using a separate horizontal sensor, then alignment accuracy is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the separate horizontal sensor from the alignment system. Instead of using an external sensor to detect horizontal position, the invention uses the stopper mechanism integrated into the antenna support structure to define the zero point, thereby removing the need for complex sensing hardware while maintaining alignment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper mechanism serves dual functions: it physically limits the rotation range of the antenna and simultaneously defines the zero point for vertical alignment. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate measurement and control components, reducing device complexity while maintaining alignment accuracy.
2Device complexity
If manual vertical angle alignment is performed, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation and alignment precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper acts as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the gap between manual operation and precise alignment. By providing a physical reference point (the stopper contact point) that defines the zero position, the system enables operators to perform alignment manually with greater precision and ease, without requiring complex automated systems.
3Measurement precision
If a separate horizontal sensor is used for vertical alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the alignment reference function with the existing stopper mechanism. The stopper, which already serves to limit antenna rotation, is additionally used to define the zero point for vertical alignment. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate horizontal sensors and reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining alignment precision.
4Ease of operation
If the antenna rotary member displaces one side of the antenna upward, then vertical alignment capability is improved, but the antenna structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the antenna rotary member can displace one side of the antenna upward or downward to achieve vertical alignment. This dynamic capability allows the antenna to be adjusted to the correct vertical angle while maintaining a relatively simple structural design through the use of the existing rotary mechanism.
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 easy and accurate vertical alignment of vehicle radars without a separate horizontal sensor, reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying the process, while ensuring precise alignment for effective radar operation.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member, one side and the other side of which are respectively coupled with the antenna and the case and which supports the antenna
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a vertical alignment apparatus and method for a vehicle radar. The vertical alignment apparatus includes a case at which a shaft is formed, an antenna coupled with the shaft and disposed to be rotatable about the shaft in a vertical direction, an antenna rotary member rotating the antenna and a stopper limiting an angle of rotation of the antenna, wherein the antenna rotary member displaces one side of the antenna upward or downward so as to rotate the antenna.