Vehicle Sensor Nesting in Pillar Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing vicinity information detection sensor arrangements on vehicle roof panels increase air resistance and degrade aerodynamic characteristics, while also compromising the visual appearance of the vehicle due to their exposure.
Innovation Solution
The sensor is mounted inside a closed cross-section structure of the vehicle's framework members, such as pillars, with a transmissive member covering the sensor to reduce protrusion and improve aesthetics, allowing for effective detection of vicinity information without increasing air resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vicinity information detection sensor is disposed on the roof panel to detect vicinity information in all directions, then the detection capability is improved, but the air resistance increases and aerodynamic characteristics are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor arrangement transitions from a roof-mounted configuration (vertical dimension) to a side-pillar integrated configuration (horizontal dimension). This dimensional shift allows the sensor to maintain its detection capability while being positioned in a location that does not interfere with the vehicle's aerodynamic flow, thereby reducing air resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The vicinity information detection sensor is nested within the side pillar structure of the vehicle framework. By integrating the sensor into the existing pillar geometry and using the pillar's closed cross-section structure, the sensor achieves compact placement that minimizes protrusion and reduces aerodynamic drag while maintaining detection functionality.
2Reliability
If the vicinity information detection sensor is disposed on the roof panel, then the detection capability is improved, but the visual appearance is degraded due to visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is nested within the side pillar structure, which is typically obscured by the vehicle's body panels. This integration hides the sensor from external view, preserving the vehicle's aesthetic appearance, while the sensor remains functionally accessible for detecting vicinity information.
Solution Approach 2:
The side pillar structure serves as an intermediary element that conceals the sensor. The pillar acts as a mediating structure between the sensor and the external environment, providing mechanical support and aesthetic concealment while allowing the sensor to perform its detection function.
3Reliability
If the sensor protrudes from the vehicle surface for effective detection, then the detection capability is improved, but the air resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is nested within the closed cross-section structure of the side pillar, minimizing its protrusion from the vehicle's external surface. This integration allows the sensor to maintain effective detection capability while presenting a streamlined profile that reduces aerodynamic drag during vehicle motion.
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 reduces air resistance and enhances the vehicle's aerodynamic characteristics while maintaining effective detection of vicinity information, improving both performance and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a transmissive member 38 formed of a material having transmissivity to a detection carrier used by the detection portion 34A is disposed at a side outer panel 36
Data Source
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AI summary
A vicinity information detection sensor arrangement includes a vehicle framework member, a vicinity information detection sensor (34) and a cover (38). The vicinity information detection sensor (34) is provided at a vehicle framework member (16) with a closed cross section structure. At least a portion of the vicinity information detection sensor (34) is disposed inside the vehicle framework member (16). A detection portion (34A) that detects vicinity information of the vehicle is oriented to a vehicle outer side. The cover (38), mounted on the vehicle framework member, faces the detection portion (34A) and allows transmission of a detection carrier that the detection portion (34A) uses for detection.