Ultrasonic Sensor Voltage-Adaptive Transmission Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic sensors in start-stop systems face performance degradation and functional restrictions due to brief drops in operating voltage below 9V, leading to uncontrolled changes in sound pressure and sensor range, which affects obstacle detection during parking and maneuvering functions.
Innovation Solution
The method involves detecting the operating voltage and adapting the transmission power of the ultrasonic sensor to maintain controlled performance by reducing transmission power when voltage falls below a threshold, ensuring reliable sensor data and optimal balance between reliability and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ultrasonic sensor operates with maximum transmission power, then the sensor range and sound pressure are improved, but the reliability of sensor data deteriorates when operating voltage drops below 9V due to uncontrolled performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission power of the ultrasonic sensor is made dynamically adjustable based on the detected operating voltage. The adaptation unit continuously monitors voltage levels and automatically adapts the transmission power accordingly, transitioning the sensor from static to dynamic operation to maintain reliability across varying voltage conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the transmission power parameter of the ultrasonic sensor based on the detected operating voltage. When voltage drops below the threshold, the transmission power is reduced to a level that ensures reliable operation, thereby maintaining data reliability through parameter adaptation
2Reliability
If the transmission power is reduced to maintain reliability at low voltages, then the sensor performance and detection range deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission power parameter is dynamically changed based on the detected operating voltage. When voltage is sufficient (above threshold), maximum power is used for optimal performance. When voltage drops below threshold, power is reduced to maintain reliability, achieving optimal balance between power consumption and data reliability
3Use of energy by moving object
If the operating voltage is allowed to drop below 9V, then energy consumption is reduced, but the sound pressure and sensor range become uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the operating voltage is continuously detected and used to control the transmission power. This closed-loop control ensures that even when voltage drops below 9V, the transmission power is adapted to maintain controlled and reliable sensor detection performance
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic sensor system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment by detecting its own operating voltage and automatically adapting its transmission power accordingly, without requiring external control systems
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 maintains controlled sensor detection performance even with reduced voltages, improving warm start and undervoltage behavior, enhancing reliability and cost-effectiveness by using standard components and minimizing functional restrictions.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic sensor (1) is provided
Implementation Method 2
a transmitted ultrasonic signal is reflected at an obstacle and an echo is received by the ultrasonic sensor (1)
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for operating an ultrasonic sensor. This method comprises the steps of detecting an operating voltage (S1) applied to the ultrasonic sensor and adjusting the transmission power of the ultrasonic sensor as a function of the detected operating voltage (S2). A device for operating an ultrasonic sensor comprises a measuring unit for detecting an operating voltage applied to the ultrasonic sensor and an adjustment unit for adjusting the transmission power of the ultrasonic sensor as a function of the detected operating voltage. According to the inventive method and device, the sensor detection performance remains in a controlled state even at significantly reduced operating voltages applied to the ultrasonic sensor.