Optoelectronic Sensor Alignment Using Multi-Element Scanning Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the angular position of optoelectronic sensors in motor vehicles are not effective in detecting and correcting misalignments, which can impact the accuracy and reliability of sensor data, especially in dynamic driving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and optoelectronic sensor system that uses a transmitting device, a receiving unit with multiple receiving elements, and an evaluation unit to determine angular positions by creating a sensor coordinate system and comparing it with a reference coordinate system, allowing for the detection and correction of angular deviations, particularly in horizontal and vertical alignments, using scanning points and reference lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods for determining angular position are used, then the sensor can operate, but misalignments cannot be detected and corrected, leading to reduced accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the angular position of the optoelectronic sensor is continuously determined by analyzing the spatial distribution of scanning points in the sensor image. The system calculates the angle between the scanning point line and the reference line, and this information is used to correct misalignments in real-time, ensuring both high measurement precision and operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods with an optical-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical fixtures or physical adjustment mechanisms, the system uses the optoelectronic sensor itself to detect angular position through light reflection patterns, and the evaluation unit calculates misalignment angles software-based, eliminating mechanical complexity while improving precision
2Measurement precision
If multiple receiving elements are used to improve alignment detection, then angular position can be determined, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the optoelectronic sensor multi-functional by using the same sensor that captures the sensor image for both its primary detection function and for determining angular position. The scanning points extracted from the sensor image serve dual purposes: representing detected objects and providing spatial information for calculating the angular position, eliminating the need for separate alignment detection hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the scanning points as an intermediary element that bridges the sensor image data and the angular position calculation. The scanning points, which are naturally generated during normal sensor operation, serve as mediators to extract spatial distribution information without requiring additional sensors or complex processing hardware
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 precise determination and correction of angular positions, improving the operation and safety of optoelectronic sensors during semi-autonomous and autonomous driving by ensuring accurate sensor data and enhanced recognition of road guidance and objects, thereby increasing road safety.
Implementation Method 1
Light beams are emitted into the vicinity of the motor vehicle by means of the transmitter. The light beams reflected from an object are received by the receiver
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining at least one alignment of an optoelectronic sensor (5) of a motor vehicle (1) relative to the motor vehicle (1). The optoelectronic sensor comprises a transmission device (6), a receiving unit (7) with at least two receiving elements (7a, 7b), and an analysis unit. The method has the following steps: - emitting light beams (8) into the surroundings (4) of the motor vehicle (1) by means of the transmission device (7), and - receiving light beams (8) reflected on an object (3) by means of the receiving unit (7), wherein the received light beams (8) are represented by the analysis unit as scanning points (17A, 17B, 17C) in a sensor image (14) of the surroundings of the motor vehicle (1), said sensor image being generated by the optoelectronic sensor (5), and each scanning point (17A, 17B, 17C) is assigned to a receiving element (7a, 7b). In the generated sensor image (14), a sensor coordinate system (S) is determined using at least two received scanning points (17A) of the first receiving element (7a), and a reference coordinate system (R) is determined using at least one scanning point (17A) of the first receiving element and at least one scanning point (17B) of the second receiving element (7b). In order to determine the at least one alignment of the optoelectronic sensor (5), an angular deviation is determined by comparing the sensor coordinate system (S) with the reference coordinate system (R). The invention additionally relates to an optoelectronic sensor (5).