Ultrasonic Sensor Random Triggering Eliminates Control Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic-based environment detection systems for vehicles, such as parking assistance systems, have high costs due to complex control electronics and require centralized or decentralized control units for sensor management.
Innovation Solution
A method where ultrasonic sensors communicate directly with a signal generator using a random number generator to trigger transmission signals, and the received signals are evaluated to determine distance and control a signaling device, eliminating the need for external control units by synchronizing sensor operations and using a simple cabling system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual connections or bus systems with central control units are used for sensor management, then reliable sensor control and data collection are achieved, but system costs and control electronics complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Each ultrasonic sensor is equipped with an integrated random number generator that autonomously generates transmission signals without external triggering. The sensor independently performs distance measurement and directly controls the signaling device based on its own measurements, eliminating the need for centralized control units and complex bus systems while maintaining reliable operation
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is segmented from a centralized control unit and distributed to individual sensors. Each sensor becomes an independent control node with its own random number generator and evaluation logic, dividing the previously centralized control electronics into multiple simple, autonomous units that reduce overall system complexity
2Ease of operation
If centralized or decentralized control units manage sensor operations, then coordinated sensor activation and signal synchronization are achieved, but system costs and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors autonomously coordinate their operations through self-generated random transmission signals. Each sensor independently determines its own activation timing and directly controls signaling devices based on its measurements, achieving coordinated operation without centralized management or complex inter-sensor communication infrastructure
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional control systems with multiple connections are used, then comprehensive sensor management is achieved, but cabling requirements and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex control electronics and signal processing functions are extracted from centralized control units and integrated directly into each simple sensor unit. This extraction eliminates the need for extensive cabling networks connecting sensors to control units, reducing cabling material while maintaining full sensor management capability through autonomous sensor operation
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 reduces system costs by eliminating the need for control units and software, allowing for a cost-effective, space-saving, and easily cascaded sensor architecture with reduced cabling, enabling direct control of sounders and efficient object detection.
Implementation Method 1
Each ultrasonic sensor emits an ultrasonic signal, which is reflected by a possible object or obstacle and can be received by the same ultrasonic sensor
Implementation Method 2
at least one ultrasound sensor or several are installed, for example, in the front and/or rear bumper
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling sensors (4), particularly for ultrasound-based distance detection systems in a vehicle (1), wherein the sensors (4) communicate with a signaling device for predetermined distance detections. A sensor (4) each from a plurality of sensors is prompted by a signal triggered by a random generator (10) to generate a transmission signal. From the received signal reflected by an object disposed at a distance, the recorded distance is directly utilized for actuating the signaling device.