Automated Vehicle Sensor Mounting for Aerodynamic Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomously driven vehicles with rounded front ends face challenges in mounting sensors for full 360-degree perimeter sensing without compromising aerodynamics, as traditional sensor placements either expose sensors non-aerodynamically or cause sensing cones to diverge from optimal orientation.
Innovation Solution
The front side sensors are mounted with a leading corner edge outset and trailing corner edge inset from the curved perimeter surface, covered by a lens and trim piece to maintain aerodynamics and protect the sensor, orienting the sensing cone closer to the optimal position while preserving the vehicle's aerodynamic profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are mounted on exterior brackets to maintain optimal sensing orientation, then sensing performance is improved, but aerodynamic profile deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is nested within a housing that is integrated into the vehicle's perimeter surface. The housing contains the sensor while maintaining the smooth aerodynamic contour of the vehicle body, allowing the sensor to be protected and aerodynamic while still detecting surroundings effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is oriented at an angle relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis, specifically with its sensing cone centered on an axis that diverges from the optimal lateral axis orientation. This angular repositioning allows the sensor to function effectively within the constraints of the rounded aerodynamic surface
2Reliability
If sensors are placed inside the rounded front perimeter surface for protection, then structural protection is improved, but sensing orientation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The housing provides localized protection specifically for the sensor while maintaining the overall aerodynamic shape. The sensor is positioned and oriented within the housing to achieve optimal sensing performance for its specific function, rather than requiring the entire vehicle surface to be modified
Solution Approach 2:
The housing acts as an intermediary structure that transmits environmental protection to the sensor while allowing the sensor to maintain its sensing capabilities. The housing design includes features that permit the sensor to detect surroundings effectively despite being enclosed
3Loss of energy
If vehicle front end is rounded for aerodynamics, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but sensor mounting flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into independent mounting units, each with its own housing and orientation. This allows multiple sensors to be positioned at different locations and angles around the rounded vehicle front, providing flexible sensing coverage without compromising the overall aerodynamic shape
Solution Approach 2:
The housing design serves multiple functions: it protects the sensor, maintains aerodynamic profile, and provides mounting flexibility. The same basic housing structure can accommodate different sensor types and orientations, making the system adaptable to various sensing requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor mounting arrangement suitable for an autonomous or automated vehicle having an aerodynamic generally rounded or curved front perimeter surface symmetrically arranged relative to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The sensor is mounted so as to be tipped toward a more optimal sensing direction, bringing a leading portion outboard of, and a trailing portion inboard of, the ideal front perimeter surface, but putting the sensor in a more optimal sensing orientation. A transparent cover protects the sensor and blends aerodynamically into the front perimeter body surface.