Rotating Reflector Optical Unit for Vehicle Obstruction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle headlight systems face limitations in efficiently using light sources due to size restrictions of rotating mirrors, leading to reduced light reflection ratios, and require additional circuits to adjust headlamp brightness, causing discomfort and increased costs. Additionally, millimeter-wave radar systems have limited mounting positions and interfere with other components, affecting detection accuracy and placement.
Innovation Solution
An optical unit with a rotating reflector that forms a desired light distribution pattern by reflecting light emitted from a light source, allowing for efficient use of light without size restrictions and simplifying the structure by eliminating the need for special mechanisms like resonance mirrors, and integrating a millimeter-wave radar with a rotating reflector to scan surrounding regions for obstruction detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a permanent magnet and coil actuator is used to rotate the mirror, then the mirror can be reciprocatively turned, but the size of the mirror is restricted and the light reflection ratio is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rotation function into two independent parts: a rotation drive unit that provides rotational force and a rotation control unit that controls the rotation angle. This segmentation allows the mirror to be rotated without being constrained by the size limitations of a single actuator, enabling a larger mirror surface area to improve light reflection ratio while maintaining rotation capability.
2Measurement precision
If additional circuits are added to reduce headlamp brightness, then vehicle detection accuracy can be improved, but costs increase and driver comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the illumination intensity of the headlamp based on detection results from previous scanning cycles. When no vehicle is detected, the headlamp operates at full intensity for optimal illumination. When a vehicle is detected, the illumination is reduced in the next cycle to avoid glare while maintaining detection accuracy. This dynamic control eliminates the need for additional brightness reduction circuits.
3Measurement precision
If millimeter-wave radar is mounted at a low position, then obstruction detection is improved, but road surface noise is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines millimeter-wave radar detection with optical illumination and camera imaging to create a multi-dimensional detection system. The millimeter-wave radar operates at a low position to detect obstructions close to the ground, while the optical system provides additional verification. This dimensional complementarity allows the radar to maintain its low mounting position for better obstruction detection without being overly affected by road surface noise.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If millimeter-wave radar is mounted at a high position, then road surface noise is reduced, but obstruction detection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection capabilities of millimeter-wave radar with optical illumination and camera systems. The millimeter-wave radar component detects obstructions regardless of their position, while the optical system provides complementary detection. This merging allows the radar to be mounted at an optimal position that balances road surface noise and obstruction detection, as the optical system compensates for any detection gaps.
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 optical unit enhances light utilization and accuracy in detecting vehicles and obstructions by forming efficient light distribution patterns and simplifying the system structure, while allowing for flexible placement of the millimeter-wave radar, improving detection capabilities and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating reflector that is rotated about a rotation axis in one direction while reflecting light emitted from a light source
Implementation Method 2
a millimeter-wave radar, a rotating reflector that is rotated about a rotation axis in one direction while reflecting invisible light sent from the millimeter-wave radar
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an optical unit wherein a rotating reflector rotates about a rotation axis in one direction, while reflecting light emitted from a light source. The rotating reflector is provided with a reflecting surface such that the light reflected by the rotating reflector, while rotating, forms a desired light distribution pattern, said light having been emitted from the light source. The light source is composed of light emitting elements. The rotation axis is provided within a plane that includes an optical axis and the light source. The rotating reflector is provided with, on the periphery of the rotation axis, a blade that functions as the reflecting surface.