In-Vehicle Acoustic Sensor Mounting for Exterior Sound Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle upper structures face challenges in effectively mounting acoustic sensors to detect sounds and vibrations from outside the vehicle, particularly due to exposure to environmental elements and interference from other vehicle components.
Innovation Solution
The in-vehicle sensor installation structure incorporates an acoustic sensor device with a sensor housing secured to the vehicle's external structure parts using adhesive layers or retaining members, allowing the sensor to detect sounds and vibrations efficiently by orienting its collection surface towards the exterior, while being protected from environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the acoustic sensor is mounted on the external structure part with the collection surface facing the exterior, then the detection capability of external sounds and vibrations is improved, but the sensor is exposed to environmental elements and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adhesive layer as an intermediary between the acoustic sensor and the external structure part. This adhesive layer serves as a mediator that transmits vibration signals from the external structure to the sensor while providing protection against environmental factors such as water and dust, thus resolving the contradiction between detection capability and environmental exposure
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic sensor is nested within a sensor housing that is attached to the external structure part. The housing provides a protective enclosure that shields the sensor from environmental elements while maintaining the ability to detect external sounds and vibrations through the adhesive coupling, implementing a nested structure that balances exposure and protection
2Ease of manufacture
If the sensor housing is secured to the external structure part using adhesive layers, then the installation process is simplified and waterproofing is enhanced, but the removal and replacement of sensors becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive layer is pre-applied to the sensor housing or external structure part before assembly, creating a permanent bond that simplifies the installation process and ensures waterproofing. The preliminary application of adhesive eliminates the need for complex mechanical fastening systems during assembly, while the design anticipates that sensor replacement will require adhesive removal, accepting this trade-off for simplified initial installation
3Shape
If the acoustic sensor device is integrated into the external structure part, then the design aesthetics are maintained and installation is simplified, but the sensor becomes more vulnerable to damage from external factors
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic sensor is nested within a protective sensor housing that is integrated into the external structure part. This nested configuration allows the sensor to be housed within the vehicle's existing structure (maintaining aesthetics) while the housing provides a protective barrier against physical damage, environmental factors, and contaminants, thus resolving the contradiction between aesthetic integration and protective strength
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 configuration enables reliable detection of external sounds and vibrations, enhances waterproofing and protection against damage, reduces interference, and simplifies installation and maintenance, while maintaining design aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
a sound detection sensor unit which detects a sound from outside the vehicle and a vibration within the external structure part
Data Source
AI summary
An in-vehicle sensor installation structure includes an external structure part and an acoustic sensor device. The external structure part is in a plate shape, and has: an outer surface that is exposed to exterior of a vehicle and faces rear of the vehicle; and an inner surface positioned on a rear side of the outer surface. The acoustic sensor device includes a sensor housing and a sound detection sensor unit. The sensor housing is secured against the inner surface of the external structure part. The sound detection sensor unit is accommodated in the sensor housing and has an exterior sound collection surface. The exterior sound collection surface detects a sound from outside of the vehicle and a vibration within the external structure part, and faces the external structure part.