Vehicle Sensor Module Kinematics for Stable Extended Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor modules in vehicles face challenges in securely fixing environment sensors in retracted and extended positions, particularly due to instability and lack of robust adjustment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module incorporating a seven-joint kinematic mechanism with fixed bearing points and levers, utilizing a drive to move the sensor between positions and secure it with top dead center positions, eliminating the need for sliding guides and enhancing stability and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If adjustment mechanisms are used to move sensors between retracted and extended positions, then sensor visibility and detection capability are improved, but reliability of secure fixing in positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism with a seven-link kinematic chain that allows the sensor to move between retracted and extended positions. The mechanism uses rotatable connections and a drive unit to dynamically adjust sensor position while maintaining secure fixing through the mechanical constraints of the kinematic chain, resolving the contradiction between movement capability and fixing reliability.
2Reliability
If complex adjustment mechanisms are implemented to secure sensor fixing, then reliability of position fixation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into seven distinct links (first guide lever, second guide lever, tilting lever, adjustment lever, drive tilting lever, first drive adjustment lever, second drive adjustment lever) connected through rotatable joints. This segmentation allows each component to have a specific function while working together as an integrated system, achieving reliable position fixation without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism employs dynamic rotatable connections rather than static rigid joints, allowing controlled movement between positions while maintaining secure fixing. The drive unit dynamically actuates the kinematic chain to achieve and maintain desired sensor positions, providing reliability without requiring overly complex locking mechanisms.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional sliding guides are used for sensor adjustment, then ease of manufacture is improved, but stability and robustness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional sliding guide mechanisms with a seven-link kinematic chain using rotatable connections. This substitution eliminates the need for sliding surfaces and guides, improving stability and robustness through pin-jointed connections while maintaining manufacturability through standardized mechanical components and assembly procedures.
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 kinematic mechanism provides improved stability, robustness, and reduced maintenance, enabling secure retraction and extension of environment sensors while optimizing layout and reducing weight and manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a kinematic mechanism with a drive (18, 20), which are designed to move the at least one environment sensor (16) from a retracted position into an extended position
Implementation Method 2
kinematic mechanism with fixed bearing points and levers
Implementation Method 3
secure it with top dead center positions, eliminating the need for sliding guides and enhancing stability and control
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor module having an environment sensor and kinematic mechanism for adjusting the environment sensor, which fixes the environment sensor in an extended position in such a way that the latter is immovable with respect to an external force. The kinematic mechanism may have a first guide lever connected to the environment sensor; a second guide lever connected to the environment sensor; a tilting lever, which is connected to the sensor mount and the first guide lever; an adjustment lever, which is connected to the tilting lever and the second guide lever; a drive tilting lever, which is connected to the sensor mount, a first drive adjustment lever, which is connected to the second guide lever and the drive tilting lever; and a second drive adjustment lever, which is connected to the drive tilting lever and to the drive. The second guide lever is connected to the sensor mount.