Vehicle Detection System Obstruction Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection systems for automated vehicles face challenges when the primary sensor's field of view is obstructed, leading to loss of tracking data for objects of interest, which can result in reduced safety and accuracy in navigation and collision avoidance.
Innovation Solution
A detection system that utilizes a second sensor positioned remotely from the first sensor, allowing it to take over object tracking when the primary sensor's line of sight is blocked, with the controller selecting the second sensor based on availability, proximity, and communication protocols to maintain continuous object detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single primary sensor is used for object detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of object tracking deteriorates when the sensor's field of view is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection task among multiple sensors positioned at different locations on the vehicle. Each sensor has a specific field of view, and the controller segments the overall detection space into multiple zones covered by different sensors, allowing continuous tracking even when one sensor's view is blocked
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines data from multiple sensors (cameras, radar, lidar) to create a unified object detection and tracking system. The controller merges information from different sensor sources to maintain continuous tracking of objects, improving reliability while managing complexity through integrated processing
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are deployed to ensure continuous detection, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it manages sensor activation, processes data from different sensor types, determines obstructions, and coordinates sensor selection. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into a single control unit rather than requiring separate systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which sensor to use for tracking based on real-time conditions. The controller continuously monitors sensor fields of view, determines when obstructions occur, and switches between sensors as needed, making the system adaptable to changing environmental conditions while maintaining reliable tracking
3Measurement precision
If the primary sensor's field of view is obstructed, then the measurement precision is maintained for visible objects, but the loss of information about occluded objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively determines when obstructions are occurring in sensor fields of view and switches to alternative sensors before complete tracking data is lost. The controller continuously monitors for obstruction conditions and prepares alternative sensor data in advance to maintain uninterrupted tracking
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that receives data from multiple sensors, processes this information, and determines the best source for continuous tracking. When one sensor's view is blocked, the controller mediates by selecting data from another sensor to maintain the tracking information stream without interruption
Data Source
AI summary
A detection system includes a first-sensor, a second-sensor, and a controller. The first-sensor is mounted on a host-vehicle. The first-sensor detects objects in a first-field-of-view. The second-sensor is positioned at a second-location different than the first-location. The second-sensor detects objects in a second-field-of-view that at least partially overlaps the first-field of view. The controller is in communication with the first-sensor and the second-sensor. The controller selects the second-sensor to detect an object-of-interest in accordance with a determination that an obstruction blocks a first-line-of-sight between the first-sensor and the object-of-interest.