Sensor Platform Backlash Reduction via Magnetic Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor platforms for autonomous vehicles are cumbersome and obstruct the field of view of sensing devices due to their structure, and they often suffer from positional inaccuracies caused by backlash, which affects the accuracy of sensing devices.
Innovation Solution
A sensor platform system with two degrees of freedom that uses a control module to calculate and output control signals for motor movements based on desired angular coordinates, minimizing backlash and ensuring unobstructed views by employing a combination of articulation systems and drive mechanisms that allow independent rotation of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional sensor platform structure is used to enable sensing device movement, then the field of view range is improved, but the platform structure becomes cumbersome and obstructs the field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is divided into multiple independent articulation systems, each responsible for a specific degree of freedom. The first articulation system provides rotation about a first axis while the second articulation system provides rotation about a second axis. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and less obstructive while collectively achieving the desired field of view range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-axis rotation mechanism to a two-axis articulation system. By adding the second degree of freedom through the second articulation system, the platform achieves enhanced adaptability and field of view coverage without requiring a single complex mechanism, thereby reducing overall structural obstruction.
2Device complexity
If traditional mechanical connections are used in the platform, then structural simplicity is maintained, but backlash occurs and compromises sensing device position accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connections with magnetic coupling mechanisms. The magnetic coupling systems provide backlash-free force transmission between components while maintaining mechanical simplicity. This substitution eliminates the backlash inherent in gear-based or screw-based mechanical connections, thereby improving sensing device position accuracy without significantly increasing structural complexity.
3Device complexity
If a single-axis rotation system is used, then the platform structure is simple, but the field of view coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two independent articulation systems into a unified platform structure. The first articulation system and second articulation system are combined such that they work together to provide two degrees of freedom. This merging allows the platform to achieve comprehensive field of view coverage while maintaining relatively simple individual component structures.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling a movement of a sensor platform. The method includes receiving a desired position of the platform from a source. The desired position includes a first coordinate value and a second coordinate value. The method includes, based on the first coordinate value and the second coordinate value, calculating, by a processor, a first value associated with a first axis of rotation of the platform and calculating a second value associated with a second axis of rotation of the platform. The method includes outputting, by the processor, one or more control signals to at least one motor associated with the platform to move the platform based on the first value and the second value.