Ultrasonic Signal Period Length Analysis for Object Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic systems for vehicle object detection face limitations in accurately determining relative movement and object classification due to reliance on amplitude evaluation, which leads to measurement errors and inefficiencies in assigning received signals to specific objects and transmission signal forms, especially when objects are in close proximity or moving rapidly.
Innovation Solution
The method employs intrapulse analysis to determine period length sequences and time-variable frequency changes, allowing for improved object classification and relative movement estimation by analyzing the time variation of received ultrasonic signals, enabling more precise object recognition and reduced reaction time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If amplitude evaluation is used for object detection, then the system can identify objects, but measurement precision and accuracy of relative movement determination deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the evaluation parameter from amplitude to period length (frequency) of the ultrasonic signal. Instead of measuring signal strength, the system measures the time between zero crossings of the signal to determine period length, which provides more accurate information about relative movement and object classification while maintaining object detection capability.
2Measurement precision
If conventional ultrasonic systems are used, then objects can be detected, but object classification and relative movement estimation become inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system measures period length (time between zero crossings) instead of amplitude, preserving frequency information that is lost in conventional amplitude-based systems. This enables better object classification and relative movement estimation while maintaining detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If period length analysis is implemented, then object classification accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex amplitude-based signal processing with a simpler period length measurement approach. By measuring the time between zero crossings, the system achieves better classification accuracy with reduced processing complexity compared to conventional amplitude evaluation methods.
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 enhances the accuracy of object detection and classification, allowing for better recognition of multiple objects and their movements, even at close distances, and reduces the measurement cycle duration, thereby improving the overall performance of ultrasonic systems in vehicle safety and driver assistance applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one transmitting device (13) for emitting an ultrasonic transmission signal
Implementation Method 2
A transmission signal emitted by an antenna device is able to impinge on at least one reflecting object point and be reflected at least partially at that object point
Implementation Method 3
An antenna device of the receiver then receives the reflected ultrasonic signal and ascertains the length of time between emission of the transmission signal and receiving of the reflected ultrasonic signal
Implementation Method 4
ascertains the length of time between emission of the transmission signal and receiving of the reflected ultrasonic signal
Implementation Method 5
determine a period length sequence and/or a time-variable frequency change of the received signal; The period length and/or frequency change may then be utilized to ascertain at least one shape and/or speed feature of the reflecting object
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic measurement apparatus is described having a receiving device which determines a measurement sequence relating to a time variation of the period lengths of an ultrasonic signal received from an in-vehicle and/or external ultrasonic transmitter, a comparison device which determines a comparison information item relating to a deviation of the determined measurement sequence from at least one reference sequence, and an evaluation device which determines, taking into consideration the determined comparison information item, an information item relating to a signal form transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter, a relative speed between the receiving device and the ultrasonic transmitter, a relative speed of at least one reflecting object situated in a transmission path between the receiving device and the ultrasonic transmitter, and/or a shape feature of the at least one reflecting object. A method for evaluating an ultrasonic signal is also described.