A camera system of a vehicle includes: a camera within a passenger cabin of the vehicle and configured to capture an image including an occupant of a seat within the passenger cabin; a straight edge detection module configured to detect a straight edge in the image; a score module configured to determine a score for the straight edge, the score corresponding to an optical quality of the camera; and an action module configured to take one or more actions when the score is less than a predetermined value.
Methods and systems for estimating, calculating, and/or updating trailer-induced occluded regions within a host vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise detecting an external target using a rear vehicle RADAR system at a first time; determining an angle between the external target and a reference line extending behind the vehicle; and comparing the angle with a maximum occlusion angle between the vehicle and the trailer. Upon determining that the angle is less than the maximum occlusion angle, the external target may be categorized as a reflection target. This categorization may result in data from the external target being used to estimate, calculate, and/or update a trailer-induced occluded region.
G01S 13/931 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
G01S 7/41 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group using analysis of echo signal for target characterisationTarget signatureTarget cross-section
G01S 13/42 - Simultaneous measurement of distance and other coordinates
Methods and systems for estimating, calculating, and/or updating trailer-induced occluded regions within a host vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise detecting an external target using a rear vehicle RADAR system at a first time; determining an angle between the external target and a reference line extending behind the vehicle; and comparing the angle with a maximum occlusion angle between the vehicle and the trailer. Upon determining that the angle is less than the maximum occlusion angle, the external target may be categorized as a reflection target. This categorization may result in data from the external target being used to estimate, calculate, and/or update a trailer-induced occluded region.
A camera assembly for mitigating red glow is provided. A camera assembly may be configured for attachment to a vehicle. The camera assembly may include an imaging sensor and a light assembly. The imaging sensor may be configured to detect objects within a field of view. The light assembly may be configured to illuminate the field of view. The light assembly may include a light source that comprises a infra-red or near infra-red light emitting diode. The light source may oriented to be hidden from the field of view. A reflective concentrator may be configured to direct light from the light source to the field of view.
A camera measurement module is configured to determine one or more first measurements of an occupant of a seat within a passenger cabin of the vehicle based on an image captured using a camera of the passenger cabin; a radar measurement module configured to determine one or more second measurements of the occupant of the seat within the passenger cabin based on radar signals from a radar sensor of the passenger cabin; a measurement module configured to determine one or more third measurements of the occupant of the seat within the passenger cabin based on at least one of: the one or more first measurements of the occupant of the seat; and the one or more second measurements of the occupant of the seat; and a control module configured to selectively take one or more actions based on the one or more third measurements of the occupant.
B60R 21/015 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, e.g. for disabling triggering
B60N 2/00 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
G01S 13/86 - Combinations of radar systems with non-radar systems, e.g. sonar, direction finder
6.
IN-CABIN SENSOR CALIBRATION TARGETS AND RELATED METHODS
In-cabin vehicle sensor calibration targets, such as calibration targets for in-cabin RADAR sensors, along with related methods. In some implementations, the method may comprise temporarily placing a calibration target within the cabin of a vehicle; promoting movement of the calibration target; detecting the calibration target using an in-cabin vehicle RADAR sensor; and calibrating an in-cabin vehicle RADAR sensor using the calibration target.
A passive breath sensor is configured to measure an amount of an intoxicant present within a passenger cabin of the vehicle. A camera is configured to capture images including a driver on a driver's seat within the passenger cabin. A baseline module is configured to determine a baseline dimension of a pupil of an eye of the driver based on images from the camera. An eye detection module is configured to determine a present dimension of the pupil of the eye of the driver based on an image from the camera. An intoxication indication module is configured to output an indicator that the driver is intoxicated when both the amount of the intoxicant is at least a predetermined amount of the intoxicant and the present dimension of the pupil of the eye of the driver is greater than the baseline dimension of the pupil by a predetermined amount.
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
A61B 3/11 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions for measuring interpupillary distance or diameter of pupils
A61B 5/0205 - Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular conditions and different types of body conditions, e.g. heart and respiratory condition
A61B 5/05 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves
A61B 5/08 - Measuring devices for evaluating the respiratory organs
G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
G01N 33/497 - Physical analysis of biological material of gaseous biological material, e.g. breath
G06V 40/16 - Human faces, e.g. facial parts, sketches or expressions
8.
METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ADMINISTRATION OF IN-VEHICLE INTOXICATION TESTING
Methods and systems for administration of intoxication testing within a vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise displaying a fixed eye target on a graphical user interface of the vehicle and displaying a first prompt on the graphical user interface inducing the driver to perform a first movement sequence in which the driver is to stare at the fixed eye target while moving the driver's head in a first direction. A second prompt may be displayed on the graphical user interface inducing the driver to perform a second movement sequence in which the driver is to stare at the fixed eye target while moving the driver's head in a second direction. Received images of the driver's eyes may then be used to perform a nystagmus test and to assess whether the driver is intoxicated.
In some implementations, the method (500) may comprise displaying a fixed eye target (330) on a graphical user interface of the vehicle (400) and displaying a first prompt on the graphical user interface inducing the driver to perform a first movement sequence in which the driver is to stare at the fixed eye target (560) while moving the driver's head in a first direction (575). A second prompt may be displayed on the graphical user interface inducing the driver to perform a second movement sequence in which the driver is to stare at the fixed eye target while moving the driver's head in a second direction (600). Received images of the driver's eyes may then be used to perform a nystagmus test (580, 595, 605, 615) and to assess whether the driver is intoxicated (585).
A61B 3/113 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions for determining or recording eye movement
A61B 5/16 - Devices for psychotechnicsTesting reaction times
A61B 5/18 - Devices for psychotechnicsTesting reaction times for vehicle drivers
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
10.
AUTOMATED VEHICLE CHILD MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Methods and systems for automated child monitoring within a vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise monitoring one or more seats within a vehicle using one or more sensors positioned within a cabin of the vehicle. One or more children may be monitored for health, safety, and/or comfort concerns using the one or more sensors to attempt to identify a plurality of safety status indicators relating to the child. Signals received from the one or more sensors may be used to categorize a current safety state of the child within one of a plurality of safety state categories using the plurality of safety status indicators. A display may then be provided to a driver of the vehicle indicative of a real-time safety state of the child within a corresponding safety state category of the plurality of safety state categories.
G08B 21/02 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
G08B 21/04 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons responsive to non-activity, e.g. of elderly persons
B60N 2/28 - Seats readily mountable on, and dismountable from, existing seats of the vehicle
G08B 5/36 - Visible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied using electric transmissionVisible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied using electromagnetic transmission using visible light sources
Methods, apparatus, and systems for testing breathing rates using an anthropomorphic breathing simulator. In some embodiments, an anthropomorphic breathing simulator may comprise a mechanical breathing assembly positioned within an anthropomorphic body. The mechanical breathing assembly may comprise one or more breathing plates coupled with a rotatable cam plate. Each of the breathing plates may in some cases be coupled with the cam plate by way of a series of curved slots formed in the cam plate such that, upon rotation of the cam plate in one direction, the breathing plates move in a corresponding direction to simulate a first phase of a breathing cycle and, upon rotation of the cam plate in the opposite direction, the breathing plates move in another direction to simulate a second phase of the breathing cycle.
Methods and systems for automated child monitoring within a vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise monitoring one or more seats within a vehicle using one or more sensors positioned within a cabin of the vehicle. One or more children may be monitored for health, safety, and/or comfort concerns using the one or more sensors to attempt to identify a plurality of safety status indicators relating to the child. Signals received from the one or more sensors may be used to categorize a current safety state of the child within one of a plurality of safety state categories using the plurality of safety status indicators. A display may then be provided to a driver of the vehicle indicative of a real-time safety state of the child within a corresponding safety state category of the plurality of safety state categories.
B60K 35/28 - Output arrangements, i.e. from vehicle to user, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor characterised by the type of the output information, e.g. video entertainment or vehicle dynamics informationOutput arrangements, i.e. from vehicle to user, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor characterised by the purpose of the output information, e.g. for attracting the attention of the driver
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
Methods and systems for remote child monitoring within a vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise method may comprise receiving a signal in a vehicle from a remote device requesting that one or more seats in the vehicle be monitored and monitoring a child within the one or more seats using one or more sensors within the vehicle to attempt to identify a plurality of status indicators relating to the child. Signals received from the one or more sensors may be processed to categorize a current safety state of the child within one of a plurality of safety state categories using the plurality of status indicators. A signal may then be transmitted to the remote device indicative of a real-time safety state of the child within a corresponding safety state category of the plurality of safety state categories.
G08B 21/02 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
G08B 7/06 - Signalling systems according to more than one of groups Personal calling systems according to more than one of groups using electric transmission
G08B 21/22 - Status alarms responsive to presence or absence of persons
14.
Multi-sensor body measurement detection and restraint control
A camera measurement module is configured to determine first measurements of an occupant of a seat based on an image captured using a camera within the passenger cabin of the vehicle. A radar measurement module is configured to determine second measurements of the occupant of the seat within the passenger cabin of the vehicle based on radar signals from a radar sensor, A measurement module is configured to determine third measurements of the occupant of the seat within the passenger cabin based on at least one of: the first measurements of the occupant of the seat; and the second measurements of the occupant of the seat. An actuator control module is configured to selectively actuate an actuator of a restraint associated with the seat based on the one or more third measurements of the occupant of the seat.
B60R 21/015 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, e.g. for disabling triggering
B60N 2/00 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
G01S 13/86 - Combinations of radar systems with non-radar systems, e.g. sonar, direction finder
15.
MULTI-SENSOR BODY MEASUREMENT DETECTION AND RESTRAINT CONTROL
A camera measurement module is configured to determine first measurements of an occupant of a seat based on an image captured using a camera within the passenger cabin of the vehicle. A radar measurement module is configured to determine second measurements of the occupant of the seat within the passenger cabin of the vehicle based on radar signals from a radar sensor, A measurement module is configured to determine third measurements of the occupant of the seat within the passenger cabin based on at least one of: the first measurements of the occupant of the seat; and the second measurements of the occupant of the seat. An actuator control module is configured to selectively actuate an actuator of a restraint associated with the seat based on the one or more third measurements of the occupant of the seat.
B60R 21/015 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, e.g. for disabling triggering
G01S 13/86 - Combinations of radar systems with non-radar systems, e.g. sonar, direction finder
G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
16.
Dynamic airbag deployment system using camera thermal management
A camera control system of a vehicle includes: a camera within a passenger cabin of the vehicle and configured to capture images including an occupant of a seat within the passenger cabin; an overheat module configured to, using a thermal model of the camera, determine a period from a present time when a temperature of the camera is expected to become greater than a predetermined temperature and shut down; and a frame rate module configured to set a frame rate of the camera based on the period, where the camera is configured to capture images at the frame rate.
H04N 23/951 - Computational photography systems, e.g. light-field imaging systems by using two or more images to influence resolution, frame rate or aspect ratio
B60R 21/01 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents
B60R 21/015 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, e.g. for disabling triggering
B60R 21/16 - Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags
G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
G06V 40/10 - Human or animal bodies, e.g. vehicle occupants or pedestriansBody parts, e.g. hands
H04N 23/52 - Elements optimising image sensor operation, e.g. for electromagnetic interference [EMI] protection or temperature control by heat transfer or cooling elements
17.
AUTOMOTIVE SENSOR MODULE WITH BACKSCATTERING CANCELLATION
Antenna assemblies, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies, that incorporate destructive interference elements. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise one or more waveguides, one or more antenna slots, and a plurality of destructive interference elements. The destructive interference elements may be configured to reduce backscatter radiation by contributing to destructive interference of electromagnetic waves incident upon the destructive interference elements. In some embodiments, the destructive interference elements may be defined and/or exposed by a plate that may be coupled with a waveguide block or another layer/component of the assembly.
Antenna assemblies, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies, that incorporate destructive interference elements. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise one or more waveguides, one or more antenna slots, and a plurality of destructive interference elements. The destructive interference elements may be configured to reduce backscatter radiation by contributing to destructive interference of electromagnetic waves incident upon the destructive interference elements. In some embodiments, the destructive interference elements may comprise at least two distinct types of destructive interference elements arranged adjacent to one another on the outer surface, in some cases in a repeating pattern.
Antenna assemblies, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies, that incorporate destructive interference elements. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise one or more waveguides, one or more antenna slots, and a plurality of destructive interference elements. The destructive interference elements may be configured to reduce backscatter radiation by contributing to destructive interference of electromagnetic waves incident upon the destructive interference elements. In some embodiments, the destructive interference elements may be defined and/or exposed by a plate that may be coupled with a waveguide block or another layer/component of the assembly.
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies for vehicles and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise an antenna slot array comprising a plurality of antenna slots extending between opposing surfaces of a unitary structure of the antenna assembly, such as a waveguide and/or antenna block. A plurality of elongated grooves may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the antenna slots of the antenna slot array. Each of at least a subset of the plurality of elongated grooves may be defined, at least in part, by a ridge formed along an antenna side of the unitary structure.
H01Q 21/08 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart the units being spaced along, or adjacent to, a rectilinear path
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like comprising unique antenna slot transitional features. In some embodiments, an antenna module for a vehicle sensor may comprise a waveguide having a waveguide ridge extending therein. The waveguide ridge may comprise an elongated axis along which the waveguide ridge extends. An antenna slot may be operably coupled with the waveguide and may comprise an elongated axis along which the antenna slot extends. The elongated axis of the antenna slot may be at least substantially aligned with or at least substantially parallel to the elongated axis of the waveguide ridge.
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like comprising unique antenna slot transitional features. In some embodiments, an antenna module for a vehicle sensor may comprise a waveguide having a waveguide ridge extending therein. The waveguide ridge may comprise an elongated axis along which the waveguide ridge extends. An antenna slot may be operably coupled with the waveguide and may comprise an elongated axis along which the antenna slot extends. The elongated axis of the antenna slot may be at least substantially aligned with or at least substantially parallel to the elongated axis of the waveguide ridge.
Methods and systems for calibrating in-cabin vehicle sensors, such as in-cabin RADAR sensors. In some implementations, the method may comprise detecting a calibration target positioned within a cabin of a vehicle using an in-cabin vehicle sensor. One or more locational parameters of the calibration target relative to the in-cabin vehicle RADAR sensor may then be measured. The in-cabin vehicle sensor may then be calibrated by comparing the detected locational data with predetermined locational data of the calibration target within the vehicle.
Methods and systems for calibrating in-cabin vehicle sensors, such as in-cabin RADAR sensors. In some implementations, the method may comprise detecting a calibration target positioned within a cabin of a vehicle using an in-cabin vehicle sensor. One or more locational parameters of the calibration target relative to the in-cabin vehicle RADAR sensor may then be measured. The in-cabin vehicle sensor may then be calibrated by comparing the detected locational data with predetermined locational data of the calibration target within the vehicle.
An object detection system and method for a vehicle headlight include a visible light emitter and an object sensing subsystem having an infrared line emitter for emitting infrared detection radiation and an infrared line detector. An optical subsystem receives the visible light and directs it into an external region to illuminate the external region and receives the infrared detection radiation and directs it onto an object in the external region. The optical subsystem includes a partially reflective element optically between the infrared line emitter and the external region and optically between the object sensing subsystem and the external region. The partially reflective element is configured to pass one of the infrared detection radiation and the visible light and to reflect the other of the infrared detection radiation and the visible light, such that the object sensing subsystem senses the object in a line-scan-gated mode.
F21S 41/37 - Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by reflectors characterised by their material, surface treatment or coatings
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, an antenna module for a vehicle sensor may comprise a first array of elongated antenna slots and a second array of elongated antenna slots. In some embodiments, at least one of the elongated antenna slots comprises a shifted, elongated antenna slot that is shifted vertically in a vertical direction along an axis of the shifted, elongated antenna slot relative to each of the other elongated antenna slots of a respective array of the shifted, elongated antenna slot.
A radar sensor includes a housing, cover, and a plurality of transmit and receive antennas. The housing includes a cavity retaining a processing board. The cover defines a radome having a recess into the cavity with two separate and connected areas. The transmit and receive antennas are positioned on the processing board, adjacent to, and separated by a gap from, the recess. The transmit antennas are configured to transmit RF signals through the first area of the recess. The receive antennas are configured to receive RF signals returning through the second area of the recess.
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a structure defining a waveguide groove on a first side of the structure and an antenna slot formed on a second side of the structure opposite from the first side. A thru-hole may extend through the structure between the antenna slot and the waveguide groove. The thru-hole may comprise an axis and a width measured between opposing sidewalls extending at least substantially perpendicular to the axis. The width may be less than a corresponding width of the waveguide groove.
Waveguide and/or antenna assemblies comprising metamaterials for RADAR sensor assemblies/modules, particularly those for vehicles. In some embodiments, a waveguide block comprising a metamaterial may comprise a metal portion defining an array of one or more antenna slots and a thermoplastic portion defining one or more waveguide grooves. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic portion may be overmolded to the metallic portion and/or core.
Waveguide and/or antenna assemblies comprising metamaterials for RADAR sensor assemblies/modules, particularly those for vehicles. In some embodiments, a waveguide block comprising a metamaterial may comprise a metal portion defining an array of one or more antenna slots and a thermoplastic portion defining one or more waveguide grooves. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic portion may be overmolded to the metallic portion and/or core.
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide block comprising a first surface on a first side of the waveguide block and a second surface on a second side of the waveguide block opposite the first side. One or more waveguides may be formed in the waveguide block. One or more antenna slots may be operably coupled with one or more of the waveguides. One or more auxiliary grooves may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the antenna slots and may mimic, or at least substantially mimic, at least one of the one or more antenna slots, such as in length and/or width.
H01Q 21/08 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart the units being spaced along, or adjacent to, a rectilinear path
32.
SYSTEM AND METHOD TO DETECT PROPER SEATBELT USAGE AND DISTANCE
A system for detecting seatbelt positioning includes: a seatbelt having a plurality of stripes extending lengthwise along a length of the seatbelt longer than an entire width of the seatbelt. The plurality of stripes are arranged in an alternating pattern of bright and dark in near-infrared, each having a width in a direction perpendicular to a lengthwise dimension of the seatbelt. The plurality of stripes may include at least two bright stripes and at least two dark stripes, and the widths of the stripes may define an asymmetric pattern with at least one of: two bright stripes having different widths, or two dark stripes having different widths.
G06V 10/44 - Local feature extraction by analysis of parts of the pattern, e.g. by detecting edges, contours, loops, corners, strokes or intersectionsConnectivity analysis, e.g. of connected components
An intoxication detection system of a vehicle includes: a passive breath sensor configured to measure an amount of an intoxicant present within a passenger cabin; a camera configured to capture images including a driver on a driver's seat within the passenger cabin; a radar sensor configured to output radar signals toward the driver's seat and receive signals reflected back to the radar sensor; a baseline module configured to determine baseline parameters for the driver based on images from the camera and the signals received by the radar sensor; and an intoxication indication module configured to output an indicator that the driver is intoxicated when both (a) the amount of the intoxicant is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount and (b) at least one present parameter of the driver is different than a respective one of the baseline parameters for the driver by at least a predetermined amount.
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
A61B 3/11 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions for measuring interpupillary distance or diameter of pupils
A61B 5/0205 - Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular conditions and different types of body conditions, e.g. heart and respiratory condition
A61B 5/05 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves
A61B 5/08 - Measuring devices for evaluating the respiratory organs
G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
G01N 33/497 - Physical analysis of biological material of gaseous biological material, e.g. breath
G06V 40/16 - Human faces, e.g. facial parts, sketches or expressions
34.
Systems and methods for confirmation of intoxication determination
An intoxication detection system of a vehicle includes: a passive breath sensor configured to measure an amount of an intoxicant present within a passenger cabin of the vehicle; a camera configured to capture images including a driver on a driver's seat within the passenger cabin of the vehicle; an intoxication indication module configured to: selectively determine that the driver is intoxicated when the amount of the intoxicant is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount of the intoxicant; trigger performance of a test to confirm whether the driver is intoxicated when the amount of intoxicant is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount of the intoxicant; and selectively indicate that the intoxication of the driver is confirmed when nystagmus is detected in the driver based on images from the camera during performance of the test.
A61B 5/05 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves
B60K 28/06 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the driver responsive to incapacity of driver
G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
G01N 33/497 - Physical analysis of biological material of gaseous biological material, e.g. breath
G06T 7/246 - Analysis of motion using feature-based methods, e.g. the tracking of corners or segments
G06V 10/80 - Fusion, i.e. combining data from various sources at the sensor level, preprocessing level, feature extraction level or classification level
G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
G06V 40/20 - Movements or behaviour, e.g. gesture recognition
G06V 40/60 - Static or dynamic means for assisting the user to position a body part for biometric acquisition
35.
Automotive sensor module with absorptive and/or non-reflective layer
Antenna assemblies for vehicles, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide block defining an array of waveguide grooves and an array of antenna slots. Each antenna slot in the array of antenna slots may be at least partially aligned with a waveguide groove of the array of waveguide grooves of the waveguide block. The assembly may further comprise an absorptive layer comprising an array of openings corresponding with the array of antenna slots. The absorptive layer may be configured to dissipate surface currents on the waveguide block such as, for example, by way of the material used to form the absorptive layer and/or the thickness of the absorptive layer and/or to suppress fascia reflections.
A driver monitoring system module comprises a housing, a first circuit board, and a second circuit board. The first circuit board is generally mounted at a first location within the housing. The second circuit board is generally mounted at a second location on an exterior surface of the housing. The first circuit board and the second circuit board are partially overlapped in a first direction and separated by a predefined distance in a second direction. The exterior surface of the housing generally defines a passage between overlapped portions of the first circuit board and the second circuit board that allows ambient air to pass between the first circuit board and the second circuit board to provide convective cooling.
H04N 23/52 - Elements optimising image sensor operation, e.g. for electromagnetic interference [EMI] protection or temperature control by heat transfer or cooling elements
H05K 5/00 - Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
37.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VEHICLE OCCUPANT VITAL SIGN DETECTION
Methods and systems for detection and/or estimation of a rate of an occupant vital sign from within a cabin of a vehicle. In some implementations, the method may comprise identifying a repeating pattern of Doppler spectrum peaks in RADAR signal using a plurality of different range bins. An estimated frequency distance between adjacent peaks of the repeating pattern may then be identified using the signal data. An estimated rate of a repeating vital sign of an occupant within the cabin of the vehicle may then be calculated using the estimated frequency distance.
A61B 5/05 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
A61B 5/0205 - Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular conditions and different types of body conditions, e.g. heart and respiratory condition
A61B 5/11 - Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb
G01S 7/41 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group using analysis of echo signal for target characterisationTarget signatureTarget cross-section
38.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VEHICLE OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION USING IN-CABIN SENSING
Methods and systems for location, identification, and/or classification of vehicle occupants using, at least in part, RADAR or other electromagnetic sensor data from within the vehicle cabin. In some implementations, the method may comprise identifying a vehicle occupant within a vehicle using electromagnetic signals and assigning the vehicle occupant to a location within the vehicle by processing electromagnetic signals. One or more features about the vehicle occupant may be extracted by processing electromagnetic signals and used to classify the occupant and/or alter a function of the vehicle.
G01S 7/41 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group using analysis of echo signal for target characterisationTarget signatureTarget cross-section
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
A61B 5/08 - Measuring devices for evaluating the respiratory organs
39.
Driver monitoring systems and methods with coaxial camera and light source
A driver monitoring system of a vehicle includes: an infrared (IR) camera configured to capture an image of a driver on a driver's seat within a passenger cabin of the vehicle; an IR light source that is disposed between the IR camera and the driver, that is optically coaxial with the IR camera, and that is configured to output IR light to the driver; a gaze module configured to determine a gaze of the driver based on the image from the IR camera; and a monitor module configured to determine whether a location where the gaze of the driver intersects a vertical plane in front of the driver is within an area on the vertical plane.
An example system includes an infrared emitter to output infrared light towards a target, where the infrared light reflects from the target to produce reflected infrared light, and a detector to receive the reflected infrared light and to provide a signal based on the reflected infrared light. The system also includes a lighting system that includes a light emitter to output visible light, a mirror configured (i) to allow the visible light to pass through the mirror and to reflect the reflected infrared light onto the detector, or (ii) to allow the reflected infrared light to pass through the mirror and onto the detector and to reflect the visible light, and one or more optical elements configured to affect the visible light and the reflected infrared light.
G01S 7/48 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
G01J 5/10 - Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry using electric radiation detectors
G01S 7/481 - Constructional features, e.g. arrangements of optical elements
G01S 17/931 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
B60T 7/12 - Brake-action initiating means for automatic initiationBrake-action initiating means for initiation not subject to will of driver or passenger
B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
An example system includes a light source coated with a phosphor layer, a laser emitter to output a laser beam, and a controller to control a direction of the laser beam so that the laser beam hits a location on the phosphor layer. The laser beam excites the location on the phosphor layer to produce a spotlight at the location.
F21S 41/20 - Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
F21S 41/675 - Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution by acting on reflectors by moving reflectors
Antenna structures and assemblies for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a plurality of elongated radiating slots formed in a first array, which may extend parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to each another within the first array. The assembly may further comprise a plurality of elongated protrusions formed in a second array, which may extend parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to each another within the second array. In some embodiments, each radiating slot within the first array may similarly extend parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to each elongated protrusion within the second array.
Antenna structures and assemblies for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a printed circuit board, an integrated circuit coupled to the printed circuit board on a first surface of the printed circuit board, and an antenna coupled to the printed circuit board on a second surface of the printed circuit board opposite the first surface. A vertical waveguide may extend through the printed circuit board from the integrated circuit to the antenna and may be configured to deliver and/or receive electromagnetic energy between the integrated circuit and the antenna.
A driver monitoring system of a vehicle includes: an infrared (IR) camera configured to, via a windshield, capture an image of a driver on a driver's seat within a passenger cabin of the vehicle; and an IR light source configured to transmit IR light directly toward the driver and the driver's seat.
B60Q 5/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of acoustic signal devices
B60Q 9/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups
B60R 1/29 - Real-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles for viewing an area inside the vehicle, e.g. for viewing passengers or cargo
RADAR sensor assemblies/modules, particularly those for vehicles. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide comprising a waveguide groove defined by opposing waveguide groove structures. An antenna structure may be operably coupled with the waveguide. A printed circuit board may be operably coupled with the waveguide and may comprise an electrically conductive top layer, an electrically conductive bottom layer, and a substrate positioned in between the electrically conductive top layer and the electrically conductive bottom layer. The electrically conductive top layer may comprise an opening exposing the substrate, which opening may extend along the waveguide groove in between the opposing waveguide groove structures. This configuration may allow for various parameters of the printed circuit board to be modified to tune a performance of a sensor/antenna.
An apparatus comprises an image sensor and a processor circuit. The image sensor may be configured to capture images of a field of view of the image sensor. The processor circuit may be configured to (i) receive the images captured by the image sensor and (ii) generate one or more control signals in response to objects in the images. The processor circuit may be further configured to (i) detect a registration indicia on an object in one or more of the images, (ii) determine whether the processor circuit includes support for the object associated with the registration indicia, and (iii) when the processor circuit does not include support for the object associated with the registration indicia, download support information for the object associated with the registration indicia from a database.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
A driver monitoring system of a vehicle includes: a camera configured to capture an image of a driver on a driver's seat within a passenger cabin of the vehicle; a gaze module configured to determine a gaze vector based on a direction of pupils of the driver in the image; an area module configured to determine an area on a vertical plane in front of the driver based on a road in front of the vehicle; a location module configured to determine a location on the vertical plane where the gaze vector intersects the vertical plane; and a monitor module that determines whether the location on the vertical plane where the gaze vector intersects the vertical plane is within the area on the vertical plane.
G06V 20/56 - Context or environment of the image exterior to a vehicle by using sensors mounted on the vehicle
G06V 20/58 - Recognition of moving objects or obstacles, e.g. vehicles or pedestriansRecognition of traffic objects, e.g. traffic signs, traffic lights or roads
G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
A sensing system includes a sensor with transmitters and detectors. A light source is optically coupled to a light guide disposed in the field of view of the sensor. The light guide is generally planar and the light source illuminates the light guide from an edge, or side, to illuminate the length of the light guide. A housing for the sensing system has a surface configured to reflect or diffract light from the light source towards the surrounding environment.
A radar sensor includes a housing, cover, and a plurality of transmit and receive antennas. The housing includes a cavity retaining a processing board. The cover defines a radome having a recess into the cavity with two separate and connected areas. The transmit and receive antennas are positioned on the processing board, adjacent to, and separated by a gap from, the recess. The transmit antennas are configured to transmit RF signals through the first area of the recess. The receive antennas are configured to receive RF signals returning through the second area of the recess.
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, an antenna module for a vehicle sensor may comprise a receive (RX) array of elongated RX antenna slots and a transmit (TX) array of TX antenna slots. The TX array may comprise both one or more vertically-shifted TX antenna slots and one or more high-gain and/or squinted TX antenna arrays, each comprising a plurality of high-gain antenna slots.
A system includes: a first camera configured to capture first images of a driver on a driver's seat within a passenger cabin of the vehicle; a second camera configured to capture second images in front of the vehicle; a driver module configured to determine a driver and a present rank of the driver; a module configured to detect a condition based on at least one of (a) a first image, (b) a second image, and (c) a parameter measured by a sensor; a reinforcement module configured to: display the present rank within the passenger cabin; generate an output within the passenger cabin in response to the detection of the condition; when no conditions are detected, increment a rank period of the driver; selectively increase the present rank of the driver; and generate an alert within the passenger cabin in response to the increasing of the present rank.
B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
B60R 22/48 - Control systems, alarms, or interlock systems, for the correct application of the belt or harness
B60W 40/08 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to drivers or passengers
52.
SYSTEM AND METHOD TO CORRECT OVERSATURATION FOR IMAGE-BASED SEATBELT DETECTION
A system and method for detecting seatbelt positioning includes capturing, by a camera, a near infrared source image of an occupant in a vehicle, determining a position of a head of the occupant in the source image, determining a region of interest for a seatbelt based on the position of the head; determining an oversaturation condition in the region of interest for the seatbelt, adjusting the source image to form an adjusted image compensating the oversaturation condition in the region of interest for the seatbelt, converting the adjusted image to a black-and-white image, and detecting the seatbelt within the black-and-white image. Adjusting the source image to compensate the oversaturation condition may include adjusting an exposure level of the source image based on a contrast ratio in the region of interest and/or based on detecting a predetermined pattern of the seatbelt within the region of interest for the seatbelt.
A method for detecting a position of a seatbelt in a vehicle includes: capturing, by a camera, a source image of an occupant in the vehicle; determining a pose of the occupant based on the source image; determining an occupant shadow based on the pose of the occupant; determining, based on the occupant shadow, a shadow overlying a region of interest (ROI) in the source image; and detecting, based on the shadow overlying the ROI, the seatbelt within the ROI. A system for detecting a position of a seatbelt is also provided. The system includes a camera and controller in communication with the camera and configured to: determine a pose of the occupant; determine an occupant shadow based on the pose of the occupant; determine, based on the occupant shadow, a shadow overlying the ROI; and detect, based on the shadow overlying the ROI, the seatbelt within the ROI.
A system comprising a radar device and a mobile device. The radar device may be configured to operate when a vehicle is turned off, detect a presence of a person in the vehicle, determine an age range of the person detected and generate an alert signal in response to a presence signal and determining that the age range of the person detected corresponds to a child. The mobile device may be configured to communicate the presence signal to the radar device and determine a movement of the mobile device. The radar device may determine a distance of the mobile device from the vehicle in response to the presence signal. The radar device may suppress the alert signal when the distance of the mobile device is within a predetermined range of the vehicle and the mobile device is moving.
B60R 25/31 - Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems of human presence inside or outside the vehicle
B60R 25/01 - Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens
B60R 25/10 - Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device
B60R 25/20 - Means to switch the anti-theft system on or off
55.
Method and system for seatbelt detection using adaptive histogram normalization
A method for detecting seatbelt positioning comprises: capturing, by a camera, a source image including a plurality of pixels each having a corresponding brightness level; determining a range of brightness levels of a group of the plurality of pixels located within at least one region of the source image; generating an adjusted image by adjusting the corresponding brightness levels of the group of the pixels located within the region of the source image based on the range of the brightness levels of the group of the plurality of pixels located within the at least one region of the source image; converting the adjusted image to a black-and-white image; and scanning across the black-and-white image to detect a plurality of transitions between black and white segments corresponding to a predetermined pattern of the seatbelt, and using detections of the plurality of transitions to indicate a detection of the seatbelt.
An apparatus comprising a memory and a processor. The memory may comprise first parameters for an image sensor and second parameters for a LED. The processor may be configured to receive a first temperature from the image sensor, receive a second temperature from the LED, present a first adjustment to the image sensor and present a second adjustment to the LED. The first adjustment may be configured to scale the first parameters based on a difference between the first temperature and the predetermined temperature. The second adjustment may be configured to scale the second parameters based on a difference between the second temperature and the predetermined temperature. The processor may scale the first parameters and the second parameters in order to compensate for performance degradation of the image sensor caused by changes in the first temperature and the LED caused by changes in the second temperature.
H04N 23/72 - Combination of two or more compensation controls
H04N 23/52 - Elements optimising image sensor operation, e.g. for electromagnetic interference [EMI] protection or temperature control by heat transfer or cooling elements
H04N 23/20 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensorsControl thereof for generating image signals from infrared radiation only
H04N 7/18 - Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
57.
In-cabin temperature monitoring for child presence detection applications
An apparatus comprising a radar component and a temperature sensor. The radar component may be configured to detect a presence of a person in a vehicle and determine an age range of the person detected. The temperature sensor may be configured to determine an ambient temperature in the vehicle and operate independently from a heating and cooling system of the vehicle. The apparatus may be configured to operate when the vehicle is turned off. A processor may be configured to determine an urgency level in response to the age range of the person detected and the ambient temperature. The processor may be configured to generate escalating actions in response to the urgency level.
A system includes: a first camera configured to capture first images of a driver on a driver's seat within a passenger cabin of a vehicle; a second camera configured to capture second images in front of the vehicle; a driver module configured to determine a driver of the vehicle based on at least one of the first images and to determine a present driver's licensing level of the driver with a driver's licensing body; a first detection module configured to detect first occurrences of first conditions within the passenger cabin of the vehicle based on the first images; a second detection module configured to detect second occurrences of second conditions outside of the vehicle; and a reporting module configured to, based on the present driver's licensing level of the driver, selectively generate a report including at least one of the first and second occurrences.
B60W 40/08 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to drivers or passengers
B60R 22/48 - Control systems, alarms, or interlock systems, for the correct application of the belt or harness
A method for detecting an object having a known pattern with a boundary of a shadow overlying the known pattern includes: capturing, by a camera, a source image of the object; detecting a plurality of transitions between dark and bright regions of the source image and corresponding to the known pattern; determining an expected transition within the source image based on the known pattern and the detected transitions; determining an absence of the expected transition due to the boundary of the shadow overlying the known pattern; and determining a location in the source image corresponding to the expected transition based on a rate of change of brightness in the source image. A system including a camera and a controller configured to detect an object having a known pattern with a boundary of a shadow overlying the known pattern is also provided.
G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
G06V 10/75 - Organisation of the matching processes, e.g. simultaneous or sequential comparisons of image or video featuresCoarse-fine approaches, e.g. multi-scale approachesImage or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces using context analysisSelection of dictionaries
60.
Waveguides and waveguide sensors with signal-improving grooves and/or slots
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide block comprising a first surface on a first side of the waveguide block and a second surface on a second side of the waveguide block opposite the first side. One or more waveguides may be formed in the waveguide block. One or more antenna slots may be operably coupled with one or more of the waveguides. One or more auxiliary grooves may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the antenna slots and may mimic, or at least substantially mimic, at least one of the one or more antenna slots, such as in length and/or width.
H01Q 21/08 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart the units being spaced along, or adjacent to, a rectilinear path
An optical sensor assembly is provided. The optical sensor includes a sensor and a lens assembly. The sensor may be configured to sense a light signal. The lens assembly may be configured to direct the light signal onto the sensor. The lens assembly may include a lens formed of a plastic material such that a thermal variation is introduced into a focal length of the lens based on temperature. The lens includes a thermal compensation spacer configured to induce a thermal correction in an opposite direction of the thermal variation to correct the focal length of the lens.
An illumination system for a vehicle includes a headlight configured to emit a light beam along an optical path and into an environment. The illumination system includes an optical element having a body comprising four sides. The optical element is positioned along the optical path and configured to redirect the light beam. The illumination system includes a front lens positioned along the optical path and configured to receive the light beam from the optical element and collimate the light beam as the light beam passes into the environment. The optical element is configured to move around an optical element axis to translate the light beam relative to an azimuth plane of the environment.
F21S 41/63 - Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution by acting on refractors, filters or transparent cover plates
A system and method for detecting seatbelt positioning includes capturing, by a camera, a near infrared (NIR) image of an occupant, applying a median filter to the NIR image to remove glints; converting the NIR image to a black-and-white image, scanning across the black-and-white (B/W) image to detect a plurality of transitions between black and white segments corresponding to stripes extending lengthwise along a length of the seatbelt, and using detections of the plurality of transitions to indicate a detection of the seatbelt. Converting the NIR image to the black-and-white image may include using a localized binary threshold to determine whether a given pixel in the B/W image should be black or white based on whether a corresponding source pixel within the NIR image is brighter than an average of nearby pixels within a predetermined distance of the corresponding source pixel.
G06V 10/44 - Local feature extraction by analysis of parts of the pattern, e.g. by detecting edges, contours, loops, corners, strokes or intersectionsConnectivity analysis, e.g. of connected components
A detection system, and method of using the same, for a vehicle in an environment. The system includes a line detector with a plurality of optical receiver elements arranged in a line. The optical receiver elements receive light from the environment and the line detector captures an image of the environment in a series of line scans. An optical scanning element rotates around an axis to change a field of view of the line detector with respect to the environment. The optical scanning element has a glass body defined by four glass sides and a reflective member within the glass body.
An electronic system for a vehicle includes: a first module including: a first circuit board having a predetermined form factor; a first module on the first circuit board and including a plurality of pins; a first electrical connector disposed on a first surface of the first circuit board and including a plurality of pins; and a plurality of electrical conductors connecting the pins of the first electrical connector with the pins of the first module, respectively; and a second module including: a second circuit board having the predetermined form factor; a second module on the second circuit board and including a plurality of pins; a second electrical connector disposed on a first surface of the second circuit board and including a plurality of pins, the second electrical connector coupled to the first electrical connector.
H01R 12/73 - Coupling devices for rigid printing circuits or like structures coupling with the edge of the rigid printed circuits or like structures connecting to other rigid printed circuits or like structures
G01S 13/931 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
H01R 12/75 - Coupling devices for rigid printing circuits or like structures connecting to cables except for flat or ribbon cables
H01R 12/72 - Coupling devices for rigid printing circuits or like structures coupling with the edge of the rigid printed circuits or like structures
66.
Platformed post arrays for waveguides and related sensor assemblies
Waveguides and related assemblies for use, for example, in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the waveguide may comprise a conductive member having a first plurality of posts arranged in a first row thereon. A second plurality of posts may be arranged in a second row on the conductive member to define a waveguide between the first plurality of posts and the second plurality of posts. One or more platforms may be provided to project at least a subset of the first plurality of posts and the second plurality of posts beyond at least a portion of the conductive member adjacent to the one or more platforms. A second conductive member, such as a cover, may be coupled to the conductive member such that the first and second pluralities of posts extend between the conductive member and the cover.
A non-contact body temperature detection system of a vehicle includes: a thermography camera configured to generate an image of a user within a passenger cabin of the vehicle; a head detection module configured to determine a first area of the image including a head of the user; an eye detection module configured to determine a second area of the first area of the image including an eye of the user; a tear duct detection module configured to determine a third area of the second area of the image including a tear duct of the user; a temperature module configured to determine a body temperature of the user based on pixels of the third area of the image; and an indicator module configured to indicate whether the user has an elevated body temperature when the body temperature of the user is greater than a temperature threshold.
A vision sensing system of a vehicle comprising a camera, an object detection module, and a calibration module. The object detection module is configured to detect a first object in data received from the camera. The calibration module is configured to calibrate the object detection module to detect the first object in the presence of a second object that obstructs a view of the camera and that includes a predetermined pattern sensed by the camera. A driver monitoring system for a vehicle comprises a camera and a driver monitoring module. The camera is arranged proximate to a steering wheel of the vehicle to monitor a face of a driver of the vehicle. The driver monitoring module is configured to detect an obstruction between the camera and the face of the driver and to ignore the obstruction in response to the obstruction including a predetermined pattern sensed by the camera.
G06V 20/58 - Recognition of moving objects or obstacles, e.g. vehicles or pedestriansRecognition of traffic objects, e.g. traffic signs, traffic lights or roads
G06V 20/80 - Recognising image objects characterised by unique random patterns
G06V 40/16 - Human faces, e.g. facial parts, sketches or expressions
B60W 40/08 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to drivers or passengers
Waveguide and/or antenna assemblies for RADAR sensor assemblies/modules, particularly those for vehicles. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide block defining one or more waveguides, each waveguide defined by a waveguide groove. In some embodiments, at least a portion of at least one waveguide groove is non-straight, such as meandering/oscillating back and forth. An antenna structure may be operably coupled with the one or more waveguides, which structure may comprise an array of one or more slots. In some embodiments, a single, elongated slot of the one or more slots may extend along an axis of each waveguide groove for delivering electromagnetic radiation from a corresponding waveguide of the one or more waveguides therethrough.
Antenna structures and assemblies for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a feed waveguide comprising one or more feeding slots and a parallel plate waveguide operably coupled with the feed waveguide such that each of the one or more feeding slots of the feed waveguide is configured to inject electromagnetic energy into the parallel plate waveguide. A plurality of radiating slots may be formed in a plurality of rows and/or columns extending away from the feed waveguide to deliver electromagnetic energy out of the antenna assembly.
G01S 13/00 - Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systemsAnalogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
71.
Oscillating waveguides and related sensor assemblies
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide groove extending along an elongated axis on a first side of a block and an antenna structure operably coupled with the waveguide groove. The antenna structure may comprise an antenna slot extending along the elongated axis on a second side of the block opposite from the first side and the antenna slots may be positioned and configured to deliver electromagnetic radiation from the waveguide groove therethrough. Some embodiments may further comprise one or more grooves extending adjacent to the antenna slot, such as opposing grooves extending adjacent to the antenna slot.
A monitoring system for determining driver readiness for takeover of vehicle control from an autonomous driving system is provided. The monitoring system may include an evaluation processor and a driver monitoring system. The evaluation processor may access driver data from the driver monitoring system. The driver monitoring system may include one or more driver monitoring sensors that capture attributes of the driver indicative of driver ability to take over vehicle control. The evaluation processor may prompt the driver for an affirmative confirmation of takeover in response to a takeover request from an autonomous driving system and the sensed attributes of the driver indicative of the driver being ready to take over vehicle control.
B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
B60W 40/08 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to drivers or passengers
G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
A method and system for determining whether a seatbelt of a vehicle is fastened is provided. The system may be configured to detect markers on a seatbelt, engage seatbelt tensioners, and determine whether the markers have moved. The system may then be configured to determine whether the seatbelt is fastened based on movement of the markers.
B60R 21/015 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, e.g. for disabling triggering
B60R 21/01 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents
B60R 22/48 - Control systems, alarms, or interlock systems, for the correct application of the belt or harness
G01B 11/14 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring distance or clearance between spaced objects or spaced apertures
A camera device (1) that having a light-trap arrangement (2) and a camera housing (3) with a lens assembly (4). When mounted to the camera housing (3), the light-trap arrangement (2) is intended to limit light incoming toward the lens assembly (4), and the camera device (1) is intended to be mounted to a mounting bracket (5) positioned inside a vehicle (6). The camera housing (3) has at least one housing holding part (7A, 8A, 9A, 10A) and the light-trap arrangement includes at least one corresponding light-trap holding part (7B, 8B, 9B, 10B). Corresponding holding parts (7A, 7B; 8A, 8B; 9A, 9B; 10A, 10B) are adapted to be brought into an engaging holding position when the light-trap arrangement (2) is attached to the camera housing (3).
A camera assembly adapted for mounting to an interior of a motor vehicle on an upper surface of the steering column assembly. The camera assembly has mounting features interacting with a mounting structure that cause the camera assembly to separate from the mounting structure upon the occurrence of a collision with an object or through inertial forces acting on the camera assembly. The separation in such conditions is provided in a controlled manner through the use of cam or ramp surfaces provided in the camera assembly or mounting structure. A cable or tether may be attached to the camera assembly and mounted to the vehicle to further control movement of the camera assembly after separation.
A LiDAR system and method of detecting objects using same includes a plurality of coaxially arranged LiDAR transmitters and detectors. A movable optical element redirects optical signals between the LiDAR transmitters and an external region and reference optical element. The detectors receive returning optical signals after they have deflected off objects in the surrounding environment to generate an electrical signal. A reference signal is generated from the optical signals directed towards the reference optical element. The system determines the position of an object in the external region by adjusting the electrical signal using the reference signal.
A radar sensor module includes a substrate, at least one transmit antenna formed on a surface of the substrate, and at least one receive antenna formed on the surface of the substrate. A radome is disposed over the surface of the substrate and the at least one transmit antenna and the at least one receive antenna, such that a gap is located between the surface of the substrate and an underside of the radome in which a portion of radiation emitted from the at least one transmit antenna can propagate. At least one trench is formed in the underside of the radome and is electromagnetically coupled to the gap, the at least one trench being sized, shaped and positioned with respect to the gap such that the portion of radiation emitted from the at least one transmit antenna is substantially prevented from propagating toward the receiving antenna.
An illumination system for a vehicle includes a light source to emit light along an optical path and into an environment. A lens is positioned along the optical path and configured to collimate the light to a light beam. An optical element, having a body comprising four sides and a reflective member within the body, is positioned along the optical path and configured to redirect the light beam. The optical element is configured to move around an optical element axis to change a direction the light beam is transmitted into the environment. The illumination system is configured to receive a target position within the environment and move the optical element to fixate the light beam onto the target position.
Methods for manufacturing a vehicle sensor module, such as a RADAR sensor module. In some implementations, the method may comprise forming a sub-assembly comprising a plurality of stacked layers formed into a self-contained radome and adhering the sub-assembly to a first side of an antenna block, the first side comprising a plurality of waveguide grooves formed therein. The sub-assembly may be applied so as to provide a weatherproof seal to each of the plurality of waveguide grooves formed in the antenna block. A PCB layer may be applied to a second side of the antenna block opposite the first side and the antenna block may be seated within a cover such that the second side is protected by the cover and the first side is protected by the self-contained radome.
A system includes: a light emitting diode (LED); a switching circuit configured to: when in a first state, connect the anode of the LED to a positive potential and connect the cathode of the LED to a ground potential, thereby enabling current flow in a first direction through the LED; and when in a second state, one of: connect the ground potential to the anode of the LED; connect a negative potential to the anode of the LED; and connect the cathode of the LED to the positive potential and connect the anode of the LED to the ground potential, thereby enabling current flow in a second direction through the LED, where the second direction is opposite the first direction; and a driver module configured to selectively transition the switching circuit from the first state to the second state and from the second state to the first state.
According to a first aspect, a radar system with blockage detection is provided. The radar system includes a first antenna for receiving first signals and a second antenna for receiving second signals. Input circuitry processes the first signals to generate first input signals and processes the second signals to generate second input signals. A processor computes a correlation between the first input signals and the second input signals, determines a correlation variance related to variation in the correlation, and generates a determination as to whether the radar system is blocked using the correlation variance.
RADAR or other sensor assemblies/modules, particularly those for vehicles, along with related manufacturing/assembly methods. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a housing and a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board may comprise a first side and a second side opposite the first side and may further comprise one or more integrated circuits positioned on the first side of the printed circuit board. One or more antennas may be operably coupled with the integrated circuit. A flexible radome, such as a thermoplastic wrapper, may enclose the assembly and may provide the means for binding the printed circuit board to the housing.
H01L 23/552 - Protection against radiation, e.g. light
H01L 25/18 - Assemblies consisting of a plurality of individual semiconductor or other solid-state devices the devices being of types provided for in two or more different main groups of the same subclass of , , , , or
H01L 23/367 - Cooling facilitated by shape of device
G01S 7/02 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
H01Q 1/42 - Housings not intimately mechanically associated with radiating elements, e.g. radome
Antenna and/or waveguide assemblies for vehicles, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies, along with associated signal confinement structures. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise an antenna block defining one or more waveguides. A conductive layer may be coupled to the antenna block to form, at least in part, a wall of the waveguide. The assembly may comprise one or more periodic structures that may be operably coupled to the waveguide, each of which may comprise a first elongated opening and a first series of repeated slots extending at least substantially transverse to the first elongated opening, wherein each of the first series of repeated slots is spaced apart from an adjacent slot in the first series of repeated slots along the first elongated opening.
H01P 1/162 - Auxiliary devices for mode selection, e.g. mode suppression or mode promotionAuxiliary devices for mode conversion absorbing spurious or unwanted modes of propagation
RADAR sensor assemblies/modules, particularly those for vehicles. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a plurality of waveguides, each waveguide of the plurality of waveguides being defined by a waveguide groove. A slot may be positioned to extend along an axis of each of the plurality of waveguide grooves. Each of the waveguides may be further defined, at least in part, by a periodic feature that extends back and forth in a periodic manner along at least a portion of its respective waveguide and a plurality of periodic signal confinement structures, a first periodic signal confinement structure of which may extend adjacent to a first side of each of the plurality of waveguides, and a second periodic signal confinement structure which may extend along a second side of each of the plurality of waveguides opposite the first side.
Waveguide and/or antenna structures for use in RADAR sensor assemblies and the like. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide groove extending along an elongated axis. An antenna structure may be operably coupled with the waveguide groove and may comprise one or more slots extending within the waveguide groove along the elongated axis. The antenna structure may be positioned and configured to deliver electromagnetic radiation from the waveguide groove therethrough. The waveguide groove and/or the slot(s) of the antenna structure may intermittently oscillate on opposite sides of the elongated axis, in some embodiments in a periodic manner, along at least a portion of the elongated axis.
A detection system for a vehicle in an environment includes LiDAR transmitters and receivers configured to operate along an optical path. A reflective mirror is positioned along the optical path and configured to move to redirect light beams to scan the environment in a first direction. An optical scanning element has a glass body in the shape of a rectangular prism and a reflective member within the glass body. The optical scanning element is positioned along the optical path and configured to move around an axis to redirect the light beams to scan the environment in a second direction.
A LiDAR system includes an optical source for generating a continuous wave (CW) optical signal. A control processor generates a pulse-position modulation (PPM) signal, and an amplitude modulation (AM) modulator generates a pulse-position amplitude-modulated optical signal, which is transmitted through a transmit optical element into a region. A receive optical element receives reflected versions of the pulse-position amplitude-modulated optical signal reflected from at least one target object in the region. An optical detector generates a first baseband signal. A signal processor receives the first baseband signal and processes the first baseband signal to generate an indication related to a target object in the region.
G01S 17/34 - Systems determining position data of a target for measuring distance only using transmission of continuous waves, whether amplitude-, frequency-, or phase-modulated, or unmodulated using transmission of continuous, frequency-modulated waves while heterodyning the received signal, or a signal derived therefrom, with a locally-generated signal related to the contemporaneously transmitted signal
A detection system and method for characterizing targets in an environment around vehicle. Signals are transmitted into the environment and return signals that have reflected off targets are received. The targets are initial characterized based on their return signals and the ego-motion of vehicle as determined from sensors on the vehicle. Corrections are determined based on the position of targets with respect to the azimuth range of the detection system and the side of the target with respect to a boresight. The initial characterizations are then adjusted to obtain a final target characterization.
G01S 13/931 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
G01S 13/52 - Discriminating between fixed and moving objects or between objects moving at different speeds
G01S 13/00 - Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systemsAnalogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
89.
Integrated differential antenna with air gap for propagation of differential-mode radiation
A differential antenna includes a substrate formed of non-radio-frequency material and a pair of conductive microstrip lines formed on the substrate. A metallic sheet is supported and spaced apart from the pair of conductive microstrip lines by a plurality of support elements to form an air gap. The metallic sheet is patterned to include a plurality of differential radiating gaps disposed along the longitudinal axis of the antenna and above a gap between the pair of conductive microstrip lines. Multiple rows of metallic vias are formed in the substrate disposed and spaced apart laterally with respect to the gap between the pair of conductive microstrip lines to define two propagation air cavities in which radiation can propagate. The differential antenna is configured such that the radiation is differential-mode, second-order radiation, which is emitted from the differential antenna at the differential radiating gaps in the metallic sheet.
A device for emitting radiation includes a reflector component and a clip. The reflector component has a top side, a bottom side, and a perimeter side. At least one aperture formed within the reflector component that extends from a top opening on the top side of the reflector component through to a bottom opening on the bottom side of the reflector component. The clip may be connected to the reflector component and has a flat side that is in contact with the bottom side of the reflector component. Portions of the substantially flat side of the clip are configured to be soldered to a circuit board having an emitter which extends at least partially through the aperture when the clip is soldered to the circuit board.
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
B60W 50/16 - Tactile feedback to the driver, e.g. vibration or force feedback to the driver on the steering wheel or the accelerator pedal
B60K 28/06 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the driver responsive to incapacity of driver
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
91.
Feed to waveguide transition structures and related sensor assemblies
Waveguide module assemblies for vehicles, such as radar sensor waveguide feed to waveguide transition assemblies. In some embodiments, an antenna module may comprise an antenna assembly that includes a resonating element and a waveguide component that defines, at least in part, a waveguide configured to guide electromagnetic energy radiating from the resonating element. The resonating element of the antenna assembly may directly feed electromagnetic energy into the waveguide defined by the waveguide component.
Antenna assemblies, such as RADAR or other sensor antenna assemblies for vehicles. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise an antenna block defining a waveguide groove on a first side of the antenna block with opposing rows of posts positioned opposite from one another. A plurality of antenna slots may be positioned in the waveguide groove and may extend from the first side of the antenna block to a second side of the antenna block opposite the first side. A PCB or other means for generating electromagnetic energy may be coupled with the antenna block and be configured to feed the waveguide groove with an EM signal. The plurality of antenna slots formed in the antenna block may be configured to radiate electromagnetic energy from the antenna block.
Antenna assemblies for vehicles, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies, and related waveguide assemblies. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise a waveguide groove having a waveguide ridge positioned therein. The waveguide groove may extend along an axis with the waveguide ridge intermittently extending on opposite sides of the axis in a periodic or at least quasiperiodic manner along at least a portion of the waveguide ridge. An antenna structure, such as a plurality of slots, may be operably coupled with the waveguide ridge and may be positioned and configured to deliver electromagnetic radiation from the waveguide groove therethrough.
H01P 3/123 - Hollow waveguides with a complex or stepped cross-section, e.g. ridged or grooved waveguides
G01S 3/40 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of real or effective orientation of directivity characteristic of an antenna or an antenna system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that antenna or antenna system, e.g. to give a maximum or minimum signal adjusting orientation of a single directivity characteristic to produce maximum or minimum signal, e.g. rotatable loop antenna or equivalent goniometer system
G02B 6/42 - Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
94.
Transitional waveguide structures and related sensor assemblies
Antenna assemblies for vehicles, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise an antenna block defining a waveguide groove and an adapter portion comprising a ridge. The ridge may taper or otherwise transition in height and/or width to facilitate a transition between two adjacent elements of the assembly, such as two adjacent waveguide structures comprising ridges having different cross-sectional dimensions.
Antenna assemblies for vehicles, such as RADAR sensor antenna assemblies. In some embodiments, the assembly may comprise an antenna block defining a first waveguide on a first side of the antenna block and a second waveguide on a second side of the antenna block. The assembly may comprise a vertical waveguide extending from the first side of the antenna block to the second side of the antenna block. The vertical waveguide may be functionally coupled with the first waveguide and the second waveguide. One or both of the first and second waveguides may comprise a transitional region configured to facilitate redirection of electromagnetic waves to the vertical waveguide.
A device for emitting radiation includes a housing defining a cavity, an electrical connector formed on the housing, a heatsink having a flange, a circuit board located in the cavity having an emitter, and a filter located adjacent to the circuit board and opposite of the heatsink. The filter has at least one post that extends through a hole formed on the circuit board and through a hole formed on a flange of the heatsink. The at least one post has a press-fit termination end that engages the hole of the heatsink. The housing may be over-molded onto the heatsink.
B60W 40/08 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to drivers or passengers
H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components
A LiDAR apparatus includes a first substrate and a unitary optical element mounted thereon. The unitary optical element includes: (i) a fast axis collimator (FAC) lens receiving light from a laser diode source and generating therefrom a collimated light beam; (ii) a polarizing beam splitter optically coupled to the FAC lens, at least a portion of the collimated light beam passing through the polarizing beam splitter to a region being observed by the LiDAR apparatus; (iii) an aperture element optically coupled to the polarizing beam splitter; and (iv) an opaque coating formed on a back side of the aperture element, the opaque coating being patterned to provide a transparent aperture. At least of portion of light returning to the LiDAR apparatus from the region being observed is directed by the polarizing beam splitter, through the transparent aperture in the opaque coating on the aperture element, to an optical detector.
A LiDAR apparatus includes a first substrate, a laser diode on a surface of the substrate for outputting light, a fast axis collimator (FAC) lens receiving the light and generating an at least partially collimated light beam, a polarizing beam splitter optically coupled to the FAC lens, at least a portion of the light beam passing through the polarizing beam splitter to a region being observed by the LiDAR apparatus. An opaque coating on the back side of an aperture element coupled to the polarizing beam splitter is patterned to provide a transparent aperture. At least a portion of light returning to the LiDAR apparatus from the region being observed is directed by the polarizing beam splitter, through the transparent aperture in the opaque coating on the aperture element, through the at least partially reflective optical element to an optical detector mounted on the substrate.
G02B 26/12 - Scanning systems using multifaceted mirrors
G02B 27/09 - Beam shaping, e.g. changing the cross-sectioned area, not otherwise provided for
G02F 1/29 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the position or the direction of light beams, i.e. deflection
A scanning assembly for a detection system for a vehicle includes a base, a first and second flexible sheet, and a scanning fixture with a mirror. The scanning fixture is connected to the base via the first flexible sheet and the second flexible sheet. Oscillation of the scanning assembly around a first central axis of the scanning fixture causes each flexible sheet to flex along a length of a plane of said sheet. Oscillation of the scanning assembly around a second central axis of the scanning fixture causes each flexible sheet to flex in torsion along the length of the plane of the sheet.
G01S 7/481 - Constructional features, e.g. arrangements of optical elements
G06V 20/58 - Recognition of moving objects or obstacles, e.g. vehicles or pedestriansRecognition of traffic objects, e.g. traffic signs, traffic lights or roads
100.
Radar sensor with radome having trenches for reducing coupling between transmit and receive antennas
A radar sensor module includes a substrate, at least one transmit antenna formed on a surface of the substrate, and at least one receive antenna formed on the surface of the substrate. A radome is disposed over the surface of the substrate and the at least one transmit antenna and the at least one receive antenna, such that a gap is located between the surface of the substrate and an underside of the radome in which a portion of radiation emitted from the at least one transmit antenna can propagate. At least one trench is formed in the underside of the radome and is electromagnetically coupled to the gap, the at least one trench being sized, shaped and positioned with respect to the gap such that the portion of radiation emitted from the at least one transmit antenna is substantially prevented from propagating toward the receiving antenna.
