Ultrasonic Obstacle Detection Using Peak Value Difference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle detection systems are costly, complex, and inefficient in distinguishing between low and high obstacles, such as wheel stoppers and poles or walls, especially when the vehicle is parked backward, as they require multiple elements and can delay recognition due to their configuration.
Innovation Solution
A simple and cost-effective obstacle detection apparatus using a transmission and reception device mounted on a movable object that transmits ultrasonic waves and calculates peak value differences to determine if an obstacle is near-road-surface or higher, allowing for accurate classification without close proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple elements in array form are used for obstacle detection, then recognition accuracy of obstacle kinds is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the obstacle detection task into two distinct operational modes: a first detection mode for near-road-surface obstacles (wheel stoppers) and a second detection mode for higher obstacles (poles, walls). This segmentation allows a single device to handle different obstacle types by switching detection modes rather than using multiple simultaneous detection systems, thereby reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining recognition accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different detection modes based on the detection needs. The obstacle detection device can dynamically change its operation between the first detection mode (optimized for low obstacles) and the second detection mode (optimized for high obstacles), allowing one device to adapt to different detection scenarios without requiring multiple fixed-purpose devices.
2Reliability
If detection is performed with downward beam direction, then near-road-surface obstacles are detected, but recognition is delayed when approaching obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection in the first detection mode before the vehicle closely approaches the obstacle. By detecting wheel stoppers at a distance using the first detection mode, the system can identify obstacles early and prepare appropriate responses, avoiding delayed recognition that would occur if detection only activated when very close to the obstacle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic switching between detection modes based on detection results and vehicle position. The system periodically evaluates whether to switch from the first detection mode to the second detection mode, allowing it to maintain optimal detection coverage at different distances and prevent recognition delays.
3Device complexity
If a single detection device is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ability to distinguish between high and low obstacles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes operational parameters (detection mode) rather than physical device structure to achieve obstacle classification. By adjusting detection parameters between the first mode (for low obstacles) and the second mode (for high obstacles), a single device can accurately distinguish between different obstacle types without requiring multiple physical detection elements or complex structural modifications.
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 accurate detection of obstacles, reducing the risk of collisions by distinguishing between near-road-surface and higher obstacles using a single device, improving parking precision and safety without the need for complex array configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission unit configured to repeatedly transmit sensing waves at a predetermined interval and a reception unit configured to receive reflective waves of the sensing waves from a detected object
Implementation Method 2
calculates a distance from an obstacle in accordance with a time lag between a time point, at which transmission of a wave starts, and a time point, at which a reflective wave is received
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission and reception device is located at a predetermined height on a movable object and directed toward an outside. The transmission and reception device includes a transmission unit for repeatedly transmitting sensing waves at a predetermined interval and a reception unit for receiving reflective waves of the sensing waves from a detected object. A peak value detecting unit detects peak values of the received reflective waves and stores the detected peak values. A difference arithmetic unit calculates a difference in the detected peak values with movement of the movable object closer to the detected object. An object determination unit determines the detected object to be a near-road-surface obstacle, which is close to a road surface, when the difference is a negative value. The object determination unit determines the detected object to be an other obstacle than the near-road-surface obstacle when the difference is a positive value.