Universal Vehicle Sensor Positioning via Doppler Reflection Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional side collision avoidance systems require multiple sensors pre-programmed for specific positions, leading to increased manufacturing costs and risks of improper installation due to the need for different wiring connections for each position.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses a single sensor capable of determining its position on a vehicle by generating electromagnetic waves, receiving reflections from objects, and calculating its relative speed and direction, allowing it to learn its position and adapt to different installations without modifying other vehicle components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors pre-programmed for specific positions are used, then the sensor can be accurately identified at its installed position, but the manufacturing cost increases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single sensor that can function at multiple positions on the vehicle. Instead of creating eight different pre-programmed sensors for eight different positions, one universal sensor is designed that can be installed at any position. The sensor determines its position autonomously through a learning process, eliminating the need for position-specific programming and reducing device complexity while maintaining position identification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor applies self-service by autonomously determining its own position on the vehicle without requiring external programming or configuration. The sensor performs a learning process where it generates electromagnetic waves, detects reflections from objects, analyzes the characteristics of these reflections, and independently identifies its position. This self-determination capability eliminates the need for manufacturer programming and reduces the need for multiple pre-configured sensors.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors with different wiring connections are used for different positions, then the sensor position can be identified, but the ease of installation decreases and the risk of improper installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single universal sensor that can be installed at any position on the vehicle using the same wiring connections. The sensor adapts to its installation position through an automated learning process, eliminating the need for different wiring configurations for different positions. This significantly improves installation ease and reduces the risk of improper installation, as installers no longer need to determine which specific sensor goes to which position.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor applies self-service by automatically determining its position through a learning process that involves generating electromagnetic waves, detecting reflections, and analyzing the characteristics of these reflections. This self-determination eliminates the need for manual position identification and wiring configuration by the installer, making the installation process simpler and more reliable.
3Device complexity
If a single sensor is used that can be installed at any position, then the manufacturing cost decreases and installation is simplified, but the ability to accurately determine sensor position becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical or electrical positioning methods (such as pre-programming or physical markers) with an electromagnetic field-based detection system. The sensor generates electromagnetic waves and analyzes the reflections from objects in its field of view to determine its position. This substitution of electromagnetic detection for mechanical positioning enables accurate position determination with a single universal sensor, resolving the contradiction between using a single sensor and maintaining position determination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor uses feedback from the electromagnetic wave reflections to continuously refine its position determination. By analyzing the characteristics of reflected waves from objects at different positions and angles, the sensor receives feedback about its environment and uses this information to accurately identify its own location on the vehicle. This feedback mechanism enables precise position determination without requiring multiple pre-programmed sensors.
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
Enables quicker and more accurate sensor installation, reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for multiple sensors, and minimizes the risk of incorrect sensor placement.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is configured to generate an electromagnetic wave within a field of view on a side of the vehicle and to receive a reflection of the electromagnetic wave from an object passing through the field of view
Implementation Method 2
The controller is further configured to determine, responsive to the signal, a relative speed of the object relative to the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method system for determining the positions of one or more collision avoidance sensors on a vehicle is provided. The system includes one or more sensors disposed on the vehicle and configured to generate electromagnetic waves within corresponding fields of view on a side of the vehicle and to receive reflections of the waves from objects passing through the field of view of each sensor. A controller receives signals generated by the sensors responsive to the reflections and determines, responsive to the signals, relative speeds and relative directions of movement of the objects relative to the vehicle. The controller further determines the position of the sensors on the vehicle responsive to the relative speeds and relative directions of movement. In particular, the controller determines the location of sensors relative to the vehicle centerline and the relative positions and distances between sensors in the direction of vehicle travel.