Camera ring structure for autonomous vehicles
US11181619B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 14, 2018 |
| Grant date | Nov 23, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2300/105
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The technology relates to autonomous vehicles that use a perception system to detect objects and features in the vehicle's surroundings. A camera assembly having a ring-type structure is provided that gives the perception system an overall 360° field of view around the vehicle. Image sensors are arranged in camera modules around the assembly to provide a seamless panoramic field of view. One subsystem has multiple pairs of image sensors positioned to provide the overall 360° field of view, while another subsystem provides a set of image sensors generally facing toward the front of the vehicle to provide enhanced object identification. The camera assembly may be arranged in a housing located on top of the vehicle. The housing may include other sensors such as LIDAR and radar. The assembly includes a chassis and top and base plates, which may provide EMI protection from other sensors disposed in the housing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.