Ultrasonic Distance Sensor Post-Oscillation Echo Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance sensors face challenges in reliably detecting echo signals in the post-oscillation interval due to their low intensity, especially at close ranges, leading to limited near detection range and susceptibility to interference.
Innovation Solution
The method involves transmitting a pulse, detecting the post-pulse signal, determining an energy value by integrating the signal over a time period, and detecting echo signals based on this energy value, using a model signal to differentiate between ringing and echo signals, and reinitializing the model after echo detection to enhance sensitivity and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the distance sensor operates in the post-oscillation interval to detect close-range objects, then the near detection range is improved, but the echo signal intensity becomes too weak to distinguish from ringing interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by evaluating multiple signal parameters (amplitude, frequency, phase) before making an echo detection decision. The system pre-calculates expected ringing characteristics and compares incoming signals against these predictions, allowing reliable echo detection even when echo intensity is comparable to ringing levels in the post-oscillation interval
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by analyzing multiple signal characteristics simultaneously (amplitude, frequency, phase) rather than relying on a single parameter. This multi-parameter approach allows the system to distinguish echo signals from ringing interference even when their intensities are similar, thereby improving measurement precision in the post-oscillation interval
2Length of stationary object
If traditional echo detection methods are used in the post-oscillation interval, then the system can operate at close ranges, but the detection becomes susceptible to interference from ringing signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring signal characteristics and using this information to adjust detection thresholds and parameters in real-time. The system evaluates the actual ringing behavior and uses this feedback to improve echo detection accuracy, reducing susceptibility to ringing interference while maintaining close-range detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses signal processing algorithms as intermediaries to separate echo signals from ringing interference. By introducing computational mediation that analyzes multiple signal parameters and compares them against expected ringing patterns, the system can identify true echoes even in the presence of strong ringing signals
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 improves the detection of echo signals in the post-oscillation interval, expanding the close detection range and reducing interference, resulting in more reliable and robust data processing for driver assistance systems, particularly in parking scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
distance sensors, which measure the distance to objects in the environment of the vehicle based on a transmitted pulse-echo method
Implementation Method 2
with a sound propagation speed of about 300 m/s
Implementation Method 3
there is a post-oscillation interval of about 1 ms
Implementation Method 4
During ringing, the frequency of the ringing approaches the resonance frequency
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for detecting the surroundings of a vehicle using a distance sensor, comprising the following steps: a) an emitted pulse is emitted, b) a reverberation signal (34) is detected in a reverberation interval (26), c) an energy value is determined by integrating the reverberation signal (34) over a period of time in the reverberation interval (26), d) echo signals (30) in the reverberation interval (26) are determined based on the determined energy value. The invention also relates to a computer program and to a driver assistance system for carrying out said method.