Autonomous Vehicle Windshield LiDAR Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LiDAR sensors used in autonomous vehicles are aesthetically unpleasing, space-consuming, and incompatible with coated glass, particularly in new generation autonomous cars that require advanced sensing capabilities for navigation and obstacle avoidance.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an infrared-based remote sensing device within the windshield of autonomous vehicles using a glass sheet with a low absorption coefficient in the 750-1050 nm wavelength range, allowing for IR signal transmission and enabling 3D mapping and object detection, combined with a high detection range and minimal design changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If LiDAR sensors are placed on the car body (roof, bumper, rear view), then object detection and 3D mapping capabilities are achieved, but the design becomes unaesthetic and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the LiDAR sensor with the windshield structure, integrating the sensing device into the existing glass component. This combines two separate elements (sensor and windshield) into a unified design, eliminating the need for external 'mushroom-like' sensors while maintaining detection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The windshield serves multiple functions: it provides structural protection, thermal insulation, and now also houses the LiDAR sensor for object detection. This multi-functional integration allows the same component to fulfill several roles, improving aesthetics while maintaining reliability
2Shape
If LiDAR sensors are integrated into coated glass windshields, then aesthetic design is improved, but the infrared signal transmission is blocked by the coating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific zone on the windshield where the infrared-transparent coating is either removed or applied with different properties. This localized modification allows IR transmission in the sensor area while maintaining the aesthetic and thermal benefits of the coating in other areas
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the glass coating in the sensor zone, specifically adjusting the infrared transmission properties. This is achieved by modifying the coating composition or structure in that local area to allow IR wavelengths to pass through while maintaining visible aesthetic appearance
3Ease of manufacture
If regular glass with high IR absorption is used, then manufacturing cost and ease of manufacture are maintained, but the LiDAR sensor cannot operate properly through the glass
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by combining regular glass with a specialized infrared-transparent coating or treatment. This composite structure maintains the manufacturing advantages of standard glass while adding the necessary optical properties for LiDAR operation through the selective application of functional materials
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
Enables precise mapping of surroundings for safe navigation, prevents collisions, and maintains aesthetic and thermal comfort standards by using a glass composition with low IR absorption and optional infrared filtering, while hiding the sensor's un-aesthetic elements from external view.
Implementation Method 1
a at least one glass sheet having an absorption coefficient lower than 5 m−1 in the wavelength range from 750 to 1050 nm
Implementation Method 2
an infrared filter
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns an automotive glazing comprising (i) at least one glass sheet having an absorption coefficient lower than 5 m−1 in the wavelength range from 750 to 1050 nm and having an external face and an internal face, and (ii) an infrared filter. According to the present invention, an infrared-based remote sensing device in the wavelength range from 750 to 1050 nm, and preferably in the wavelength range from 750 to 950 nm, is placed on the internal face of the glass sheet in a zone free of the infrared filter layer.