Vehicle Object Positioning Using Constrained Circular Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the position and shape of objects using distance-measuring sensors have low accuracy, leading to incorrect assumptions about parking space sizes and potentially aborting parking maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
A method that restricts the solution space of circular segments by using tangents and intersection points based on measurement uncertainty and the assumption of convex object surfaces, iteratively refining the position and shape determination using multiple measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If circular arcs are determined for each measurement without restricting the solution space, then the measurement process is simple, but the accuracy in determining object position and shape is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the circular arc solution space into multiple circular segments based on convex surface assumptions. By dividing the continuous circular arc into discrete segments and applying tangential constraints at specific points, the method transforms an underdetermined problem into a constrained optimization problem, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complex computational algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different quality constraints to different parts of the circular arc. By assuming convex surfaces and applying tangential constraints at specific local points (where the object surface is expected to be smooth), the method improves accuracy locally without requiring the entire solution space to be processed with high complexity. This localized approach allows simple processing at critical points while maintaining overall simplicity.
2Reliability
If the detection area is not limited to a tube-like solution space, then the coverage is comprehensive, but the accuracy is insufficient leading to aborted parking maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-determining the tube-like solution space boundaries based on convex surface assumptions and tangential constraints before the actual measurement process. This preliminary constraint setup guides the subsequent measurement and refinement steps, ensuring that the solution space is systematically narrowed down to the correct region, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex iterative refinement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the determined circular segments and their tangential constraints are used to refine the solution space iteratively. The feedback from each measurement cycle updates the tube-like solution space boundaries, progressively improving accuracy. This feedback loop allows the system to adapt to measurement variations while maintaining computational simplicity through systematic constraint application.
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
Significantly improves the accuracy of determining the position and shape of objects by limiting the detection area to a precise, tube-like solution space, enhancing the reliability of parking assistance systems.
Implementation Method 1
based on the propagation time between the transmission of the measurement signal and the reception of a reflected portion of that signal
Implementation Method 2
the reception of a reflected portion of this measurement signal by the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the position and, at least partially, the shape of an object (O) by means of a sensor system of a vehicle (F), the sensor system of the vehicle (F) having at least one distance measurement sensor (S).