Road Surface Condition Detection Using Acoustic Signal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing road surface condition detection systems are limited in their ability to quickly and accurately determine road surface conditions, such as black ice, from a remote location due to short sensing ranges and reliance on temperature measurements.
Innovation Solution
A road surface condition detection apparatus and system that utilizes sound signals generated by moving objects on the road to determine conditions like wet, icy, slush, and snowy surfaces. The system includes sensors to measure sound signals and environmental conditions, and a controller that filters noise, learns from data, and determines road surface conditions in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature measurement methods (laser or ultrasonic wave) are used to detect black ice, then black ice can be detected, but the sensing range is limited to a few meters in front of the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces temperature measurement methods (laser or ultrasonic wave) with acoustic signal detection. The sensor unit detects acoustic signals generated by vehicles passing over the road surface, and the control unit analyzes these signals to determine road surface conditions including black ice. This substitution enables remote detection over a wider area rather than limited close-range measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic signals as an intermediary medium for detection. Instead of directly measuring temperature or using contact-based sensors, the system uses acoustic signals generated by vehicle tires interacting with the road surface as an indirect indicator of road conditions. This intermediary approach allows remote sensing of black ice and other road surface conditions over extended distances.
2Reliability
If temperature-based detection is used, then black ice can be identified, but the response time for the driver is short due to limited sensing range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces temperature-based detection with acoustic signal analysis. The sensor unit captures acoustic signals from vehicles, and the control unit processes these signals to determine road surface conditions. This substitution provides earlier warning capability as the detection range extends beyond the immediate vehicle path, giving drivers more time to respond to black ice conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary detection of black ice conditions before the vehicle reaches the hazardous area. By detecting acoustic signals from vehicles approaching the black ice zone, the system can issue early warnings to drivers, allowing them to take preventive actions before encountering the black ice, thus reducing response time and improving safety.
3Reliability
If ABS operation data is used to judge black ice, then detection can be performed, but the sensing range remains limited and response time is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ABS operation data analysis with acoustic signal detection. The sensor unit detects acoustic signals generated by vehicle tires interacting with the road surface, providing a more comprehensive detection coverage. This substitution enables the system to monitor a wider area and provide earlier warnings, overcoming the limitations of ABS-based detection methods.
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 quick and accurate determination of road surface conditions over a wide area, allowing for timely and appropriate measures to be taken, such as activating snow removal devices or alerting drivers through electronic road signs.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor unit installed on a road and measuring a sound signal generated according to a movement of a moving object on the road
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to: an apparatus and system for detecting a road surface condition, wherein the road surface condition is determined through a sound signal; and a method for detecting a road surface condition by using same. The apparatus for detecting a road surface condition according to the present invention comprises: a sensor unit which is installed on a road and measures a sound signal generated according to a moving of a moving object on the road; and a control unit which distinguishes the sound signal measured by the sensor unit into normality or abnormality and determines, in case of the abnormality, the road surface condition including at least one of rainfall (wet), frozenness (icy), slush, and snow cover (snowy) so that a quick and accurate action corresponding to the road surface condition of a specific section can be made from a distanced place.