Universal Sensor Mounting Port for Vehicle Measurement Units

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing measurement systems for vehicles face challenges in easily mounting and detaching sensors of varying shapes and types, which complicates maintenance and functionality, especially in driving assistance systems where multiple sensors are used.

Innovation Solution

A measurement apparatus unit with a base and detection modules, where each module has a casing with a common mounting portion and connecting structure, allowing for universal mounting regardless of sensor shape or type, and includes a data processing unit for integrating detection data and a fixing mechanism for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If sensors of varying shapes and types are mounted using different mounting methods, then each sensor can be properly installed, but the mounting and detachment process becomes complex and difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor compatibilityVSAvoidmounting ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a common mounting portion structure that can accommodate sensors of varying shapes and types. The mounting portion includes a standardized connector and fixing mechanism that works with different sensor configurations, eliminating the need for different mounting methods for each sensor type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor assembly is segmented into a sensor unit and a separate mounting portion. The mounting portion is designed as an independent component with standardized interfaces, allowing it to be detached and reattached easily. This segmentation enables the mounting mechanism to be optimized for ease of operation while the sensor unit maintains its specific functional characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple different mounting structures are used for different sensors, then each sensor can be securely fixed, but maintenance and functionality become complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing securityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting portion is designed as a universal interface that provides secure fixing for all sensor types through a standardized mechanism. This includes a common connector structure and fixing means that ensure reliable attachment while maintaining system simplicity. The universal design allows the same mounting structure to be used across different sensor configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the mounting function and connector function into a single integrated mounting portion structure. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets, connectors, and fixing mechanisms for each sensor type, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining secure fixation through the combined functional elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of repair

If sensors are made detachable for easy maintenance, then maintenance becomes simpler, but connection reliability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance easeVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting portion includes pre-designed engagement features and fixing mechanisms that ensure reliable connection before detachment is needed. The connector is designed with preliminary positioning elements and securing structures that maintain stable connection during operation, while still allowing for easy detachment when maintenance is required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting portion employs different local qualities in its structure - with stronger, more permanent fixing features at the connection interface to ensure reliability during operation, and easier-release mechanisms at the detachment interface. This localized differentiation allows the same component to provide both secure fixation and easy maintenance access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11378425B2Measurement apparatus unit
Publication Date: 2022.07.05 DENSO CORP
  • US11378425B2 patent drawing
  • US11378425B2 patent drawing
  • US11378425B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A measurement apparatus unit is mounted to a vehicle. The measurement apparatus unit includes a base and a plurality of detection modules. The plurality of detection modules are mounted to the base. Each of the plurality of detection modules includes a casing and a detector. The detector is housed in the casing. The casing includes a mounting portion for detachably mounting each of the plurality of detection modules to the base. The mounting portion has a shape that is common among the plurality of detection modules.