Vehicle View Panel Lens Assembly for Integrated LiDAR Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mounting light-based devices, such as laser imaging systems, on vehicles is challenging due to difficulties in assembly, interference with vehicle components, and aesthetic concerns.
Innovation Solution
A lens assembly is designed with a view panel and a lens positioned partially in an opening of the view panel, supported by a structure that attaches the lens to the view panel's back face. The lens features angled sections defining a recessed face, enhancing light transmission for LiDAR operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a light-based device is mounted on an outer side of a vehicle, then the device can be easily accessed and installed, but vehicle assembly becomes difficult and time-consuming while aesthetic appeal is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the light-based device (laser imager) directly into the vehicle body structure, merging two separate components (device and body) into a unified assembly. This eliminates the need for separate mounting procedures, thereby improving vehicle assembly efficiency while maintaining ease of device installation through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated mounting structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the device, maintains aesthetic appearance by incorporating the device into the body design, and enables straightforward installation through the integrated design. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by addressing multiple requirements through a single solution
2Ease of operation
If a light-based device is mounted on an outer side of a vehicle, then the device is accessible, but vehicle components interfere with light transmission paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light transmission path from the external mounting configuration and integrates it directly into the vehicle body structure. By taking the light path inside the vehicle body where it cannot be blocked by external components, the design maintains device accessibility while ensuring reliable light transmission for LiDAR operations
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle body structure itself acts as an intermediary that guides and protects the light transmission path. The integrated design uses the body structure to channel light from the device to the sensor without interference from external components, thereby ensuring transmission reliability while maintaining accessibility
3Ease of manufacture
If a light-based device is mounted on an outer side of a vehicle, then installation is straightforward, but aesthetic appeal of the vehicle is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light-based device with the vehicle body design, creating a unified aesthetic appearance. The device is integrated into the body structure rather than being mounted externally, which maintains the vehicle's design integrity and visual appeal while keeping the installation process straightforward through the integrated design
4Productivity
If a lens is positioned in an opening of a view panel, then assembly is simplified and aesthetic appeal is maintained, but precise positioning and calibration are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates the lens positioning features directly into the view panel during manufacturing, creating pre-formed openings and mounting structures. This preliminary action ensures that when the lens is installed, precise positioning is achieved through the pre-designed features rather than requiring complex adjustment procedures during assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The view panel is designed with specific local features (pre-formed openings, mounting structures) at the exact location where the lens needs to be positioned. This local quality approach ensures precise positioning is built into the structure itself, maintaining both assembly efficiency and positioning accuracy
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
The solution simplifies vehicle assembly, maintains aesthetic appeal, ensures reliable light transmission, and facilitates accurate calibration of laser imaging devices, while also simplifying electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
The lens includes improved transmission characteristics with respect to light generated by the laser source
Implementation Method 2
The lens features angled sections defining a recessed face, enhancing light transmission for LiDAR operations
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to lenses, and related assemblies and vehicles, for laser imaging systems. In one or more embodiments, a lens assembly includes a view panel including an outer perimeter and an opening formed in the outer perimeter, and a lens positioned at least partially in the opening. The lens assembly includes a support structure attaching the lens to a second outer surface of the view panel.