Sensor Calibration Target Alignment Using Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive sensors, particularly those mounted on or near the windshield, require periodic realignment or recalibration due to events like collisions or windshield damage, which existing methods do not efficiently address, especially in repair or replacement scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a target adjustment stand with movable components, distance sensors, and a computer interface for precise alignment of a calibration target relative to the vehicle, allowing for accurate recalibration of sensors according to OEM specifications, including the use of actuators and light projectors for lateral and vertical adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional alignment methods are used for sensor recalibration, then the calibration process becomes time-consuming and inefficient, but implementing a new automated system increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service calibration by automatically measuring distances between the target and vehicle sensors, computing alignment adjustments, and guiding the operator through the calibration process without requiring manual measurement tools or complex alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment methods with an automated optical/electronic system using distance sensors, targets, and computer-controlled actuators to achieve precise sensor calibration, eliminating the need for conventional manual measurement and adjustment tools
2Measurement precision
If manual alignment procedures are used, then the system remains simple, but measurement precision and alignment accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously measures distances between the target and vehicle sensors, compares these measurements against desired alignment parameters, and provides real-time feedback to guide automated adjustments, ensuring high measurement precision through closed-loop control
Solution Approach 2:
The target mount is designed with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing it to dynamically adjust position and orientation in three-dimensional space through actuators, enabling precise alignment adaptation to different vehicle configurations and sensor positions
3Adaptability or versatility
If the target mount is made fixed and simple, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different vehicle configurations and sensor positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The target mount incorporates multiple actuators that enable dynamic adjustment of the target's position and orientation in three-dimensional space, allowing the system to adapt to various vehicle types, sensor locations, and calibration requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
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 efficient and effective recalibration of vehicle sensors, ensuring proper operation post-windshield repair or replacement, adhering to OEM standards and facilitating calibration in repair facilities.
Implementation Method 1
The target mount includes a light projector configured to project an indicating line, with the target mount being horizontally moveable and the indicating light being used to laterally position the target mount relative to the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a pair of distance targets and a pair of distance sensors configured for use in measuring the distances between respective ones of aligned distance targets and sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for aligning a target to a vehicle for calibration of a vehicle sensor includes positioning a target adjustment stand relative to a vehicle, where the target stand has a base and a target mount moveably mounted on the target stand with the target mount configured to support a target, and with the target stand including actuators configured to selectively move the target mount relative to the base. The system further includes a pair of distance targets and distance sensors configured for use in measuring the distances between respective ones of aligned distance targets and sensors. The distance sensors and targets are arranged for measuring the distances from the target stand to either side of a vehicle for use in adjusting the position of the target mount. The target mount is vertically and laterally movable on a tower of the target stand, with the tower configured to rotate about a vertical axis.