Ultrasonic Sensor Sensitivity Adjustment for Ground Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic sensors used in vehicle distance detection systems struggle to differentiate between obstacles and the ground, leading to incorrect object detection and limited adaptability to varying installation heights and loading conditions, especially in commercial vehicles.
Innovation Solution
The method adjusts the sensitivity of ultrasonic sensors by determining the installation height and ensuring the sound beam does not intersect with the ground, allowing for optimal adaptation to different vehicle levels and loading conditions, preventing ground detection while recognizing flat obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the ultrasonic sensor is set to high sensitivity to detect obstacles, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but the ground is detected as an object leading to false readings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining the installation height of the ultrasonic sensor before adjusting sensitivity. The method first measures the distance to the ground intersection point to calculate installation height, then uses this information to set appropriate sensitivity parameters. This preliminary determination of installation height enables the sensitivity adjustment to be tailored specifically to each sensor's position, preventing ground detection while maintaining obstacle detection capability.
2Reliability
If the sound beam is directed to intersect with the ground for sensitivity testing, then sensor operability can be verified, but the ground echo causes incorrect object detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing adjustable sensitivity parameters that can be dynamically modified based on installation height. The system transitions from a fixed sensitivity approach to a dynamic one where the sensitivity threshold is calculated and adjusted according to the measured installation height. This enables the sensor to adapt its detection characteristics to different mounting positions, allowing ground intersection for testing while preventing false ground detection during normal operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ultrasonic sensors are installed at different heights in commercial vehicles, then adaptability to various vehicle configurations is improved, but ground detection varies requiring individual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling each ultrasonic sensor to automatically determine its own installation height and calculate its optimal sensitivity parameters. The sensor performs self-diagnosis by measuring the distance to the ground intersection point, calculates its installation height, and autonomously adjusts its sensitivity threshold. This eliminates the need for manual individual adjustment during installation, allowing sensors to be freely positioned at different heights while automatically adapting to their specific mounting conditions.
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 ensures the ultrasonic sensors function independently of installation height, maintaining accurate obstacle detection without false ground readings, even under changing load conditions, enhancing their usability in both passenger and commercial vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a signal is sent by the sensor and an echo reflected by an object is received
Implementation Method 2
ultrasonic sensors for detecting the distance of objects from a vehicle
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for adjusting the sensitivity of ultrasonic sensors (1) for detecting the distance of objects from a vehicle. First, a sensor sensitivity is set that is selected such that a sound beam (5) is transmitted by the ultrasonic sensor (1), said sound beam having an intersection (7) with the ground. In a next step, a measurement is carried out using the ultrasonic sensor (1), wherein the distance of objects in the surroundings of the vehicle from the vehicle is greater than the distance (11) from the ultrasonic sensor (1) to the intersection (7) of the sound beam (5) with the ground (9). The distance (11) from the ultrasonic sensor (1) to the intersection (7) of the sound beam (5) with the ground (9) is detected as the shortest distance from an object. Subsequently, the sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor (1) is set depending on the previously detected distance (11) between the ultrasonic sensor (1) and intersection (7) of the sound beam (5) with the ground (9) such that the sound beam at the point (31) thereof closest to the ground (9) does not fall below a predefined distance (33) from the ground (9) after setting the sensitivity.