Vehicle Sensor Array Alignment Using IMU and Satellite Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor calibration techniques for vehicles are time-consuming, costly, and often require vehicles to be taken out of service, leading to inconsistent results due to manufacturing variations and changes in sensor alignment over time, which can impact vehicle performance and safety.

Innovation Solution

A method using a computing system that calculates calibration factors by comparing the output of an inertial measurement unit's accelerometer with the vehicle's thrust vector, derived from satellite guidance systems, to determine angular differences and correct for misalignments, allowing for quick and effective recalibration of sensor arrays without requiring extensive vehicle downtime.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional sensor calibration techniques are used, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but calibration time and vehicle downtime increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor alignment precisionVSAvoidcalibration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment and manual calibration procedures with an automated computational system that uses sensor data processing and algorithmic calculations to determine calibration factors, thereby reducing calibration time while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a virtual model or representation of the sensor array geometry and uses computational algorithms to simulate and calculate calibration factors, eliminating the need for time-consuming physical realignment and manual measurement processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional calibration methods are employed, then sensor alignment can be corrected, but the process requires vehicles to be taken out of service

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor array alignmentVSAvoidvehicle operational availability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical intervention and vehicle immobilization with a software-based calibration system that can process sensor data and calculate correction factors while the vehicle remains in operation, maintaining productivity without sacrificing alignment precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs calibration calculations using pre-collected sensor data and predetermined geometric models, allowing calibration to be completed quickly without requiring extended vehicle downtime or complex on-site adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If manual calibration procedures are used, then sensor misalignment can be corrected, but results are inconsistent due to manufacturing variations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor calibration accuracyVSAvoidcalibration result consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensor measurements are continuously processed and compared against expected geometric relationships, with calibration factors automatically adjusted based on the detected deviations, ensuring consistent and reliable calibration results that account for manufacturing variations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces subjective manual calibration procedures with an objective computational system that uses standardized algorithms and mathematical models to calculate calibration factors, eliminating human error and ensuring consistent, repeatable results across different vehicles and calibration sessions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

This approach enables accurate and efficient recalibration of sensor arrays, improving vehicle performance and safety by ensuring precise sensor data interpretation, reducing costs, and minimizing downtime.

Implementation Method 1

output received from an accelerometer of an inertial measurement unit attached to the sensor array

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAccelerometer: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 2

determine a vehicle thrust vector over a period of time based on output received from a satellite guidance system

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSatellite guidance:

Data Source

PatentUS11878632B2Calibration of vehicle sensor array alignment

Publication Date: 2024.01.23 LYFT INC

AI summary

In one embodiment, a method includes, receiving a first set of positional parameters for movement of a vehicle through an environment captured by a first sensor associated with the vehicle. The method includes receiving a second set of positional parameters for movement of the vehicle through the environment captured by a second sensor associated with the vehicle. The method includes calculating an angular offset between the first set of positional parameters and the second set of positional parameters based on comparing the first set of positional parameters to the second set of positional parameters. The method includes determining a calibration factor based on the calculated angular offset. The method includes calibrating at least one of the first sensor or the second sensor by using the calibration factor.