Universal Sensor Calibration Tool with Adjustable Rails
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sensor calibration systems for vehicles require multiple calibration devices for different makes and models, leading to increased costs and complexity for mechanics and service professionals due to varying sensor locations and orientations.
Innovation Solution
A sensor calibration kit comprising a calibration tool with a vertical rail, horizontally movable carriage assembly, line laser unit, front wheel alignment post, and rear wheel alignment post, which allows for adjustable positioning and orientation to accommodate various vehicle specifications using a combination of calibration targets and adjustable feet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate calibration devices are provided for different makes and models of vehicles, then calibration accuracy for specific vehicle types is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device is designed with a universal base unit that can accommodate multiple types of alignment elements through interchangeable mounting plates and positioning mechanisms. The base unit includes adjustable components that can be reconfigured to support different sensor orientations and locations across various vehicle makes and models, eliminating the need for multiple specialized calibration devices while maintaining calibration accuracy for each vehicle type.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate calibration devices are provided for different makes and models of vehicles, then calibration accuracy for specific vehicle types is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device is designed with a universal base unit that can accommodate multiple types of alignment elements through interchangeable mounting plates and positioning mechanisms. The base unit includes adjustable components that can be reconfigured to support different sensor orientations and locations across various vehicle makes and models, eliminating the need for multiple specialized calibration devices while maintaining calibration accuracy for each vehicle type.
3Measurement precision
If precise alignment elements are positioned and oriented accurately in six different degrees of freedom, then calibration precision is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration device incorporates dynamically adjustable components including movable mounting plates, rotateable alignment elements, and positionable adjustment mechanisms. These dynamic features allow the alignment elements to be easily repositioned and reoriented in six degrees of freedom through simple mechanical adjustments rather than complex procedures, maintaining calibration precision while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables precise calibration by allowing change in positional and orientational parameters through adjustable mechanisms. The mounting plates and alignment elements can be moved to different positions and rotated to different orientations, with adjustment mechanisms that simplify the change-parameter process while maintaining the required precision for accurate sensor calibration across various vehicle types.
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
The kit reduces the number of calibration devices needed by enabling flexible alignment and calibration of sensors on different vehicles, improving efficiency and reducing costs for service professionals.
Implementation Method 1
a line laser unit (112) mounted on the carriage assembly and configured to project a laser line
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor calibration system includes a calibration tool with a vertical rail defining a first axis, and two carriage assemblies. One carriage assembly is supported by the vertical rail, movable along the first axis, and has a horizontal rail defining a second axis transverse to the first axis. Another carriage assembly is coupled to the horizontal rail, and has a transverse mounting bar with a plurality of target mounts, each target mount configured to releasably support a respective calibration target.