With Laser Patents (Class 342/54)
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Patent number: 12162515Abstract: Techniques for detecting and determining a density for a non-impeding object based on correlation between radar and lidar returns are described herein. The techniques provide for receiving lidar data and radar data from a vehicle system operating in an environment. Portions of the lidar data and radar data are determined based on being associated with moving objects in the environment. The portions are then correlated to determine a similarity between the radar and lidar data. The similarity may then be used to determine an indication and density of the non-impeding object in the environment and cause the vehicle to operate within the environment accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2022Date of Patent: December 10, 2024Assignee: Zoox, Inc.Inventor: Arvind Srivastav
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Patent number: 12153437Abstract: Aspects and implementations of the present disclosure address shortcomings of the existing technology by enabling lidar-assisted segmentation and identification of particulate matter in autonomous vehicle (AV) applications, by: obtaining, by a sensing system of the AV, a plurality of return points, each return point having one or more velocity values and one or more coordinates of a reflecting region that reflects a signal emitted by the sensing system, identifying, in view of the one or more velocity values of each of a first set of the return points of the plurality of return points, that the first set of the return points is associated with a particulate matter in an environment of the AV, and causing a driving path of the AV to be determined in view of the particulate matter.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2023Date of Patent: November 26, 2024Assignee: Waymo LLCInventors: Nicholas Armstrong-Crews, Arthur Safira
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Patent number: 12140675Abstract: Methods, systems, devices, and tangible non-transitory computer readable media for generating a route through a geographic area are provided. The disclosed technology can generate an unoccupied cell map. The unoccupied cell map can include cells that are associated with unoccupied portions of a geographic area that are not associated with light detection and ranging (LiDAR) returns. Further, route request data that is associated with a request for a route from a starting location to one or more destination locations within the geographic area can be received. Based on the route request data, the unoccupied cell map can be accessed. A route, based on the unoccupied cell map, can then be generated. Furthermore, the route can include the unoccupied cells between a starting location and one or more destination locations within the geographic area. Indications associated with the route can then be generated.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2020Date of Patent: November 12, 2024Assignee: GOOGLE LLCInventors: Yan Mayster, Brian Daniel Shucker, Stephane Gilles Belmon
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Patent number: 12123948Abstract: A LiDAR sensor having a parameter optimization function may include: a laser diode configured to emit a laser light signal; a photo diode configured to receive a maximum laser light reflection signal reflected from a target object at a scannable maximum distance in the laser light signal; and a parameter setting unit configured to set a parameter related to an output intensity of the laser light signal or a reception intensity of the laser light signal based on the maximum laser light reflection signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2020Date of Patent: October 22, 2024Assignee: HYUNDAI MOBIS CO., LTD.Inventor: Young Kyun Kim
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Patent number: 12115980Abstract: A collision probability calculation device is provided with: a setting unit that sets a two-dimensional area composed of direction components of a first direction and a second direction, and including a first estimated position where a vehicle is estimated to arrive in the future from a reference position; a first variance calculation unit for calculating a first variance value of first position information in the two-dimensional area; a second variance calculation unit for calculating a second variance value of second position information on a second estimated position where an object is estimated to arrive in the future at the time when the vehicle arrives at the first estimated position; and a probability calculation unit for calculating the probability of a collision between the vehicle and the object, using the two-dimensional area, the first position information, the second position information, the first variance value and the second variance value.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2020Date of Patent: October 15, 2024Assignee: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITEDInventor: Tsubasa Aoki
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Patent number: 12092812Abstract: A device for two-dimensionally scanning beam deflection of a light beam has spectrally tunable light source that emits a light beam having a time-varying wavelength. The device further comprises a first optical component that produces a first beam deflection. The first beam deflection causes the light beam to be deflected wavelength-dependently in a first direction. A second optical component produces a second beam deflection which causes the light beam to be deflected in a second direction different to the first direction. The second optical component comprises a prism pair comprising two prisms that are rotatably arranged successively in a beam path of the light beam. The two prisms are configured to perform continuous counter-rotational movements.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2020Date of Patent: September 17, 2024Assignee: Carl Zeiss AGInventors: Frank Höller, Kerstin Winkler, Felix Koch
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Patent number: 12066525Abstract: Example embodiments relate to techniques for three dimensional (3D) object detection and localization. A computing system may cause a radar unit to transmit radar signals and receive radar reflections relative to an environment of a vehicle. Based on the radar reflections, the computing system may determine a heading and a range for a nearby object. The computing system may also receive an image depicting a portion of the environment that includes the object from a vehicle camera and remove peripheral areas of the image to generate an image patch that focuses upon the object based on the heading and the range for the object. The image patch and the heading and the range for the object can be provided as inputs into a neural network that provides output parameters corresponding to the object, which can be used to control the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2023Date of Patent: August 20, 2024Assignee: Waymo LLCInventors: Xu Chen, Hang Zhao, Ruichi Yu
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Patent number: 12050270Abstract: The present disclosure provides an image capturing control method and apparatus, an image capturing system and a Time-of-Flight (TOF) camera, capable of solving the problem in the related art that a clear image of an object at a specific distance cannot be captured in harsh weather. The method includes: determining infrared light emission time, exposure start time and exposure end time for a TOF camera based on a predetermined target distance range; transmitting, to the TOF camera, parameter control information containing the infrared light emission time, exposure start time and exposure end time; and receiving an image containing an object located within the target distance range that is captured by the TOF camera in accordance with the parameter control information.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2020Date of Patent: July 30, 2024Assignee: BEIJING TUSEN WEILAI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTDInventors: Ming Wang, Xiaodi Hou, Jianan Hao, Jie Sun
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Patent number: 12038499Abstract: A multi-source elevation data fusion method including: inputting acquired optical elevation data into a trained optical elevation error prediction model to output an optical elevation error value and an optical elevation error weight map; inputting acquired radar elevation data into a trained radar elevation error prediction model to output a radar elevation error value and a radar elevation error weight map; correcting the optical elevation data based on the optical elevation error value to obtain optical elevation data to be fused; correcting the radar elevation data based on the radar elevation error value to obtain radar elevation data to be fused; performing weighted fusion on the optical elevation data to be fused and the radar elevation data to be fused based on the optical elevation error weight map and the radar elevation error weight map to obtain fused elevation data. This method efficiently enhances the accuracy of fused elevation data.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2023Date of Patent: July 16, 2024Assignee: SUN YAT-SEN UNIVERSITYInventors: Qingsong Wang, Cuilin Yu, Haifeng Huang, Tao Lai
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Patent number: 11994581Abstract: Provided is an information processing device for performing fusion processing of a plurality of sensors for recognizing the outside world. An information processing device includes a control unit that controls an amount of information to be used for object detection in a first information sensed by a first sensor on the basis of second information sensed by a second sensor. The first sensor is a camera, and the second sensor is a radar. Then, the control unit determines the target area from the captured image on the basis of information on at least one of a position, a speed, or a size of an object detected by the radar.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2019Date of Patent: May 28, 2024Assignee: Sony Semiconductor Solutions CorporationInventor: Akihiro Tamaoki
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Patent number: 11994858Abstract: Performance anomalies in complex systems can be difficult to identify and diagnose. In an example, CPU-usage associated with one or more of the systems can be determined. An anomalous event can be determined based on the determined CPU-usage. In some examples, based at least in part on determining the event, the system may be controlled in a safe state and/or reconfigured to obviate the anomalous event.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2022Date of Patent: May 28, 2024Assignee: Zoox, Inc.Inventors: Robert Edward Somers, Thomas Michael Flanagan, Andrew Lewis King, Arpan Silas Rajan
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Patent number: 11955011Abstract: A vessel docking system has a vessel such as a scow and/or a tugboat, a platform such as a barge and/or a dredger, an optical distance measuring means, a vessel display unit, and a control means. The vessel display unit is configured to display a position and a location of the vessel and/or the platform. The optical distance measuring means is in communication with the vessel display unit. The optical distance measuring means includes a sensor, a laser, and lens. The optical distance measuring means is configured to determine a distance and a pathway between the platform and the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2021Date of Patent: April 9, 2024Assignee: CASHMAN DREDGING AND MARINE CONTRACTING, CO., LLCInventors: Timothy Mannering, Jay Cashman
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Patent number: 11828879Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for a vibrated polarizing beam splitter for improved return light. An example method may involve emitting, by an emitter, a first light pulse. The example method may also involve reflecting, by a polarizing beam splitter in a first position, the first light pulse, wherein the polarizing beam splitter is at a first angle of incidence in the first position. The example method may also involve adjusting, subsequent to the polarizing beam splitter reflecting the first light pulse, a position of the polarizing beam splitter from the first position to a second position, wherein the polarizing beam splitter is at a second angle of incidence in the second position. The example method may also involve transmitting, by the polarizing beam splitter, a return light pulse through the polarizing beam splitter, the return light pulse based on the first light pulse. The example method may also involve detecting, by a detector, the return light pulse.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2020Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.Inventors: Ryan T. Davis, Mohamed S. Seghilani, Richard S. D'Alo
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Patent number: 11764470Abstract: Parametric flat lenses, which are an alternative to conventional flat lenses, are described for performing near-field imaging and electronic beam scanning. These lenses can electronically direct the near or far fields, and in some cases even achieve a conversion gain. The lens incorporates a plurality of input and output antennas between which are a plurality of parametric mixers. The parametric mixers can be utilized as well to change phase relationships in accommodating different input pattern or directing the output in different ways. The disclosure also describes a proof of concept implementation using off the shelf components.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2022Date of Patent: September 19, 2023Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIAInventors: Yuanxun Ethan Wang, Xiating Zou
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Patent number: 11733369Abstract: Example embodiments relate to techniques for three dimensional (3D) object detection and localization. A computing system may cause a radar unit to transmit radar signals and receive radar reflections relative to an environment of a vehicle. Based on the radar reflections, the computing system may determine a heading and a range for a nearby object. The computing system may also receive an image depicting a portion of the environment that includes the object from a vehicle camera and remove peripheral areas of the image to generate an image patch that focuses upon the object based on the heading and the range for the object. The image patch and the heading and the range for the object can be provided as inputs into a neural network that provides output parameters corresponding to the object, which can be used to control the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2021Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: Waymo LLCInventors: Xu Chen, Hang Zhao, Ruichi Yu
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Patent number: 11656335Abstract: A radar system for detecting aircraft signatures is provided. The system comprises a plurality of radar clusters where each radar cluster further comprises a plurality of transmit antennas and a plurality of receive antennas. In this context, the plurality of transmit antennas and the plurality of receive antennas are co-located within each radar cluster. Furthermore, the plurality of transmit antennas are time synchronized and/or phase coherent with the plurality of receive antennas.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2019Date of Patent: May 23, 2023Assignee: Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Sherif Sayed Ahmed
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Patent number: 11609329Abstract: A machine vision system comprises a camera configured to generate one or more images of a field of regard of the camera, a lidar system, and a processor. The lidar system includes a laser configured to emit light, where the emitted light is directed toward a region within the field of regard of the camera and a receiver configured to detect light returned from the emitted light. The processor is configured to receive an indication of a location based on the returned light and determine, based on the one or more images generated by the camera, whether the indication of the location is associated with a spurious return.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2020Date of Patent: March 21, 2023Assignee: Luminar, LLCInventors: Richmond Hicks, Matthew D. Weed, Jason M. Eichenholz
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Patent number: 11555893Abstract: Disclosed are a laser scanning device, a radar device, and a scanning method thereof. The laser scanning device comprises a scanning prism comprising a plurality of scanning mirror surfaces, wherein the plurality of scanning mirror surfaces rotates about a scanning axis, a normal of each of the scanning mirror surfaces forms a certain angle with respect to the scanning axis, and the angles thereof are not all the same; a transceiving component comprising a laser transmitting unit and a laser receiving unit, wherein the laser transmitting unit generates a scanning line by rotation of the scanning mirror surfaces, and the same laser transmitting unit generates a plurality of scanning lines by rotation of the scanning prism.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2018Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Assignees: HEFEI SURESTAR TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., BEIJING SURESTAR TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventor: Zhiwu Zhang
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Patent number: 11550042Abstract: A laser radar system according to the present invention includes: a light source to output light having a first frequency in a first period and light having a second frequency in a second period; an optical splitter to split the lights, outputted from the light source, into signal light and local oscillator light; an optical modulator to modulate the signal light into pulsed light; an optical antenna to output the pulsed light into space and to receive, as reception light, the scattered light from a target; an optical heterodyne receiver to perform heterodyne detection on the reception light by using the local oscillator light; and a measurement unit to measure the distance to the target or the movement characteristics of the target by using the reception signal detected by the optical heterodyne receiver, wherein the optical heterodyne receiver performs the heterodyne detection on the first frequency of the reception light by using the second frequency of the local oscillator light.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2017Date of Patent: January 10, 2023Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATIONInventors: Eisuke Haraguchi, Toshiyuki Ando, Hitomi Ono
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Patent number: 11479262Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to an autonomous driving system in an ego vehicle. The autonomous driving system includes a radar system configured to detect and identify a target in a path and a surrounding environment of the ego vehicle. The autonomous driving system also includes a sensor fusion module configured to receive radar data on the identified target from the radar system and compare the identified target with one or more targets identified by a plurality of perception sensors that are geographically disparate from the radar system. Other examples disclosed herein include a method of operating the radar system in the autonomous driving system of the ego vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2019Date of Patent: October 25, 2022Assignee: METAWAVE CorporationInventor: Matthew Paul Harrison
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Patent number: 11428781Abstract: A system and method for localization includes a processing system with at least one processing device. The processing system is configured to obtain sensor data from a sensor system. The sensor system includes at least one radar sensor. The processing system is configured to obtain map data. The processing system is configured to determine if there is a predetermined number of detected features. The detected features are associated with the sensor data of a current sensing region of the sensor system. The processing system is configured to generate localization data based on the detected features of the current sensing region upon determining that the predetermined number of detected features is satisfied. The processing system is configured to obtain tracked feature data upon determining that the predetermined number of detected features is not satisfied and generate localization data based on the tracked feature data and the detected features of the current sensing region.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2019Date of Patent: August 30, 2022Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Alireza Nemati, Aghapi Mordovanakis
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Patent number: 11353552Abstract: The present disclosure is a metamaterial-based object detection system. An intelligent antenna metamaterial interface (IAM) associates specific metamaterial unit cells into sub-arrays to adjust the beam width of a transmitted signal. The IAM is part of a sensor fusion system that coordinates a plurality of sensors, such as in a vehicle, to optimize performance. In one implementation, an MTM antenna structure is probe-fed to create a standing wave across the unit cells.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2019Date of Patent: June 7, 2022Inventor: Maha Achour
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Patent number: 11249490Abstract: A self-moving device capable of automatically recognizing an object in front is provided. The self-moving device includes a signal transmission module, a gradient determination module, and a control module. The signal transmission module transmits recognition signals propagated along at least two different paths. The gradient determination module obtains, according to the recognition signals, a first determination result indicating whether an object in front is a slope. The control module controls a traveling path of the self-moving device according to the first determination result.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2019Date of Patent: February 15, 2022Assignee: Positec Power Tools (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jiang Du, Davide Dalfra, Dong Wang, Bincai Lan
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Patent number: 11038583Abstract: An intermediate network for a radiocommunication system, the intermediate network includes one or more stations located on high-altitude platforms in order to connect a set of remote base stations to one or more ground stations. The high-altitude platforms are networked by way of communication links, for example high-speed free-space optical links. The invention also proposes to connect remote base stations positioned outside of the area of coverage of the stations located on high-altitude platforms via for example microwave-link relay stations or base stations at the edge of the area of coverage.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2018Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Assignee: THALESInventor: Jean-Didier Gayrard
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Patent number: 11016181Abstract: A lidar scanning device for use in a motor vehicle includes a lidar sensor having a predefined scanning field, the lidar sensor being configured for determining the distance of an object within the scanning field, and a pivot device for varying an alignment of the scanning field of the lidar sensor as a function of a driving direction of the motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2016Date of Patent: May 25, 2021Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Hans-Jochen Schwarz, Jan Sparbert, Joern Ostrinsky, Klaus Stoppel, Rene Adams, Mustafa Kamil
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Patent number: 11005170Abstract: A millimeter-wave radar cover housing a millimeter-wave radar including an antenna and an electronic circuit configured to drive the antenna includes: a first site provided in front of the millimeter-wave radar to protect the millimeter-wave radar and transmit millimeter waves emitted from the antenna; and a second site including a housing space in which the antenna and the electronic circuit except for the first site are housed. The first site is made of a stacked structural body obtained by stacking at least one layer of a first constituent material having a negative permittivity in the frequency band of the millimeter waves and a second constituent material having a positive permittivity in the frequency band of the millimeter waves.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2019Date of Patent: May 11, 2021Assignee: NOK CORPORATIONInventor: Takeshi Yamada
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Patent number: 10921753Abstract: A system contains a light source for generating a plane wave light beam. A MicroElectroMechanical (MEM) system includes an array of micro-mirrors for generating a light beam having a plurality of orbital angular momentum modes multiplexed together within the light beam responsive to the plane wave light beam and control signals for controlling the array of micro-mirrors. A controller generates the control signals to dynamically control a position of each of a plurality of micro-mirrors of the array of micro-mirrors to apply the plurality of orbital angular momentum modes on to the light beam. The controller controls the position of the plurality of micro-mirrors to dynamically generate a plurality of holograms for dynamically applying the plurality orbital angular momentum modes to the plane wave light beam and to dynamically encode a phase and amplitude of the light beam responsive to the control signals.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2018Date of Patent: February 16, 2021Assignee: NXGEN PARTNERS IP, LLCInventors: Solyman Ashrafi, Roger Linquist
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Patent number: 10782399Abstract: Provided is an object detecting method and apparatus using a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor and a radar sensor, the method may include collecting LIDAR data and radar data associated with a search region in which objects are to be found using the LIDAR sensor and radar sensor, extracting each of objects present within the search region based on the collected LIDAR data and radar data, generating shadow regions of objects extracted through the LIDAR sensor and setting an ROI of LIDAR sensor based on the extracted objects, setting an ROI of radar sensor based on a reflectivity depending on a range and a movement speed of moving object among the objects extracted through the radar sensor, comparing the ROI of the LIDAR sensor to the ROI of the radar sensor, and verifying whether the moving object is present based on a result of the comparing.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2017Date of Patent: September 22, 2020Assignee: Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and TechnologyInventors: Jong Hun Lee, Seong Kyung Kwon, Sang Hyuk Son, Eugin Hyun, Jin Hee Lee
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Patent number: 10735691Abstract: An industrial visualization system generates and delivers virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) presentations of industrial facilities to wearable appliances to facilitate remote or enhanced interaction with automation systems within the facility. VR presentations can comprise three-dimensional (3D) holographic views of a plant facility or a location within a plant facility. The system can selectively render a scaled down view that renders the facility as a 3D scale model, or as a first-person view that renders the facility as a full-scale rendition that simulates the user's presence on the plant floor. Camera icons rendered in the VR presentation can be selected to switch to a live video stream generated by 360-degree cameras within the plant. The system can also render workflow presentations that guide users through the process of correcting detected maintenance issues.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2017Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Paul D. Schmirler, Thong T. Nguyen, Alex L. Nicoll, David Vasko
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Patent number: 10663578Abstract: Provided is a target detecting apparatus including: a frequency modulation continuous wave (FMCW) radar that obtains a first beat signal; a linear frequency intensity modulation (LFIM) light detection and ranging (LiDAR) that transmits a second transmission signal obtained by modulating intensity of a continuous wave laser based on an FMCW signal and obtains a second beat signal based on a microwave signal into which a second reception signal reflected from a target is converted and the FMCW signal; and a controller that receives the first beat signal and the second beat signal and obtains information regarding the target based on the first beat signal and the second beat signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2017Date of Patent: May 26, 2020Assignee: AGENCY FOR DEFENSE DEVELOPMENTInventors: Byung-Lae Cho, Jung-Soo Lee, Sun-Gu Sun, Jong-Min Lee, Jong-Pill Kim
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Patent number: 10488493Abstract: A sensor array for an autonomous vehicle. The sensor array includes a center sensor mounted to a center sensor mounting device, which is configured to telescope to adjust a height of the center sensor. A first side sensor is mounted to a first side sensor mounting device, which is configured to pivot to adjust an angle of the first side sensor. A second side sensor is mounted to a second side sensor mounting device, which is configured to pivot to adjust an angle of the second side sensor.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2016Date of Patent: November 26, 2019Assignee: DENSO International America, Inc.Inventor: Trong Duy Nguyen
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Patent number: 10488426Abstract: A system that can determine and provision speed and mapping information of a moving object. Time of flight data over a time period can be processed to determine ranges between the system and the moving object and the speed can be determined therefrom. The speed can be determined by calculating the radial velocity and tangential velocity of the object and taking the square root of the addition of the square of each. Alternatively, the speed can be determined by calculating a linear regression curve fit for instantaneous distances of the moving object in the direction of motion for a plurality of ranges and determining the slope of the linear regression curve fit. After a lock of the determined speed, system coordinates can be identified and associated with the speed. A map can be received based upon the system coordinates and the map, speed and speed related parameters can be communicated.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2018Date of Patent: November 26, 2019Assignee: APPLIED CONCEPTS, INC.Inventors: Mahendra Mandava, Robert S. Gammenthaler, Russell D. Kautz, Steven F. Hocker
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Patent number: 10363114Abstract: An aiming and status indicator system for surgical lightheads, cameras, and other lighting system accessory devices. The system includes a plurality of marker lights mounted to a housing for the accessory device. Each marker light produces a respective marker light beam that is directed towards a work area (surgical site) to provide a marker indicator pattern. The marker indicator patterns can be used to indicate the boresight of a lighthead or camera, whether a lighthead is in a focused or unfocused condition, and status information associated with the lighting system.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2017Date of Patent: July 30, 2019Assignee: American Sterilizer CompanyInventors: Michael Hollopeter, Damon Jurkiewicz, David Jesurun, Lena Tana Fogle
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Patent number: 10353072Abstract: Detection of sunlight as noise is avoided in obtaining point clouds by using a laser scanner. A laser scanner controlling device includes a sun direction calculating unit 115, a brightness measuring unit 116, and a scan condition setting unit 118. The sun direction calculating unit 115 calculates the direction of the sun. The brightness measuring unit 116 measures the brightness of an image that contains the direction of the sun. The scan condition setting unit 118 sets a condition for restricting laser scanning in the direction of the sun when the brightness is not less than a predetermined threshold value.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2016Date of Patent: July 16, 2019Assignee: TOPCON CORPORATIONInventors: You Sasaki, Tadayuki Ito
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Patent number: 10302754Abstract: The solid object fusion portion includes a lane slope estimation portion, a grouping area set portion and an identity determination portion. The lane slope estimation portion performs estimate processing to estimate a lane slope angle ? in a detecting position of a solid object detected by an autonomous recognition sensor. The grouping area set portion performs setting processing to set a grouping area GA used in determination processing in the identity determination portion. Based on the grouping area GA, the identity determination portion determines whether or not the solid object detected by a certain autonomous recognition sensor is identical to the solid object detected by an autonomous recognition sensor which is different from the certain autonomous recognition sensor.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2018Date of Patent: May 28, 2019Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Terumoto Komori
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Patent number: 10222471Abstract: A vehicle movement estimation device has a radar that is provided in a vehicle and that performs transmission of a radar wave and reception of a reflected wave that is the radar wave reflected by an object, a radar movement estimator that estimates a radar movement velocity and a radar movement direction of the radar based on the received reflected wave, an angular velocity estimator that estimates a rotational angular velocity of the vehicle, and a vehicle movement estimator that estimates a movement velocity and a movement direction of a prescribed position of the vehicle based on the estimated radar movement velocity and radar movement direction, the estimated rotational angular velocity, and a spatial relationship between the radar and the prescribed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2016Date of Patent: March 5, 2019Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yunyun Cao, Hirofumi Nishimura, Takaaki Kishigami, Asako Hamada
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Patent number: 10200975Abstract: The present invention is designed so that a radio base station controls base station parameters dynamically, in accordance with changes in the surrounding propagation environment. The radio base station according to the present invention has a surrounding environment information acquiring section that acquires surrounding environment information, which is information about the environment in a service area, a propagation environment information extraction section that extracts propagation environment information, which is information about electric wave propagation, based on the surrounding environment information, and a base station parameter generating section that generates base station parameters, which are information about the control of electric waves to transmit and receive, based on the propagation environment information.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2014Date of Patent: February 5, 2019Assignee: NTT DOCOMO, INC.Inventors: Jiyun Shen, Satoshi Suyama, Yukihiko Okumura, Tetsuro Imai
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Patent number: 10200222Abstract: A test set system and related method are provided comprise a first direct digital synthesizer (DDS) having a balanced output configured to produce a first signal, and a second DDS having a balanced output signal configured to produce a second signal that differs from the first signal. The test set system also comprises a fully differential amplifier (FDA) having a balanced input that is connected to the balanced output of the first DDS and the balanced output of the second DDS, and a balanced output at which a combination of the first signal and the second signal is provided that suppresses even-order intermodulation products.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2017Date of Patent: February 5, 2019Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: David Allen Hairfield, Michael G. Carlsen, Ryan G. Beck, Shawna L. Ong, Colt James
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Patent number: 10154253Abstract: A multi-view display system or optical vortex 3D display in a multi-view or multilayer embodiment or configuration. The new 3D display system encodes and decodes images into independent modes of optical angular momentum (OAM). In some embodiments, the 3D display system uses pixel-based OAM. In such systems, transformation optics are used to sort the OAM modes. These transformation optics convert the OAMs' spiral wavefronts to linear gradient wavefronts, which are then deflected by a simple lens. The transformation optics, thus, are used in image-based (per pixel) decoding/sorting. In other embodiments, the 3D display system uses image-based OAM. In such systems, convolution of the OAM modes with the image is used rather than the direct modulation of the OAM mode and the image (as used in the prior system discussed above) for image-based encoding and decoding/sorting of images in different OAM modes.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2016Date of Patent: December 11, 2018Assignees: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC., CAMBRIDGE ENTERPRISE LIMITEDInventors: Quinn Y. Smithwick, Xuefeng Li, Jiaqi Chu, Daping Chu
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Patent number: 10054678Abstract: Minimizing incorrect associations of sensor data for an autonomous vehicle are described. A driving environment of the autonomous vehicle includes a stationary object and a dynamic object. Such objects can be detected by radar sensors and/or lidar sensors. In one example, a history of radar observation can be used to minimize incorrect sensor data associations. In such case, the location of a stationary object in the driving environment can be determined. When a dynamic object passes by the stationary object, lidar data of the dynamic object is prevented from being associated with radar data obtained substantially at the determined location of the stationary object. In another example, identifiers assigned to radar data can be used to minimize incorrect sensor data associations. In such case, lidar data of an object can be associated with radar data having a particular identifier.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2015Date of Patent: August 21, 2018Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: Xue Mei, Naoki Nagasaka, Bunyo Okumura
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Patent number: 10031224Abstract: A radar device which receives reflected waves from objects, and derives still targets, includes: a determining unit that determines whether any other still target exists at a position in the vicinity of a reference target which is a still target existing at a position closest to a position of a vehicle in a longitudinal direction; and a setting unit that makes it easy to determine the reference target as a roadblock, in a case where the number of other still targets existing at positions in the vicinity of the reference target is equal to or less than a predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2015Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: FUJITSU TEN LIMITEDInventors: Shinya Aoki, Hisateru Asanuma
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Patent number: 9903946Abstract: A system performs operations including receiving pairs of sensor signals indicative of imaging of an environment, each pair of sensor signals including (i) a first sensor signal received from a first sensor and including first spatial coordinates and a first signal characteristic and (ii) a second sensor signal including second spatial coordinates and a second signal characteristic. The operations include identifying valid pairs of sensor signals, including determining that an address including the first coordinates of the first sensor signal of a given pair and the second coordinates of the second sensor signal of the given pair corresponds to an admissible address in a set of admissible addresses stored in a data storage.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2017Date of Patent: February 27, 2018Assignee: RFNAV, INC.Inventors: Jefferson M. Willey, Richard E. Pavek
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Patent number: 9753130Abstract: A target detection apparatus includes a first target detection section which detects a target which exists ahead of a vehicle and has a height sufficient to strike against the vehicle; a second target detection section which detects the target in an area different from an area in which the target is detected by the first target detection section, and a reliability degree setting section which sets a target reliability degree indicating probability that the target exists. When the target is detected only by the first target detection section or the second target detection section, and after the target is detected by both the first and the second target detection sections, the reliability setting section sets the target reliability degree based on an overlap detection time which is a period of time during which both the first and the second target detection sections continuously detect the target.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2014Date of Patent: September 5, 2017Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventor: Ryo Takaki
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Patent number: 9524647Abstract: A flight path planning approach may be deterministic and guarantee a safe, quasi-optimal path. A plurality of three-dimensional voxels may be determined as cells of a rectangular grid. The cells may have a predetermined length and width. A shortest safe path through the grid graph may be calculated from a local start to a local goal defined as points on a nominal global path. Geometric smoothing may be performed on the basis line from the local start to the local goal to generate a smooth three-dimensional trajectory that can be followed by a given rotorcraft. Dynamic smoothing may be performed on the three-dimensional trajectory to provide a maximum possible speed profile over a path defined by the dynamic smoothing. The three dimensional path information may be provided to an autopilot, which may then control the rotorcraft to fly along the defined path.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2015Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: The Aerospace CorporationInventor: Sylvia Kohn-Rich
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Patent number: 9305241Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing a point cloud data set are provided. According to aspects of the present disclosure, a method includes receiving a point of a point cloud data set, the point having three-dimensional coordinates. The point's coordinates are mapped to a location to determine whether a different point's coordinates have already been mapped to the location. The point is discarded when a different point's coordinates have been mapped to the location.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: Google Inc.Inventor: Arthur Robert Pope
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Patent number: 9188677Abstract: An imaging Doppler lidar (IDL) enables the measurement of the velocity distribution of a large volume, in parallel, and at high spatial resolution in the wake of a wind turbine. Because the IDL is non-scanning, it can be orders of magnitude faster than conventional coherent lidar approaches. Scattering can be obtained from naturally occurring aerosol particles. Furthermore, the wind velocity can be measured directly from Doppler shifts of the laser light, so the measurement can be accomplished at large standoff and at wide fields-of-view.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2014Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventor: David J. Bossert
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Patent number: 9188481Abstract: A number of apparatuses are provided, for sensing and/or emitting energy along one or more desired apparatus line of sights (LOS) with respect to the respective apparatus. In an embodiment, an apparatus includes an assembly that is rotatably mounted on a base with respect to a switching axis. The assembly has two or more sensing/emitting units, each having a respective sensing/emitting unit line of sight (ULOS). Each sensing/emitting unit has an operative state, wherein the respective unit ULOS is pointed along a LOS of the apparatus for sensing and/or emitting energy along the LOS, and a corresponding inoperative state, where the respective unit ULOS is pointed along a direction different from this LOS. A switching mechanism enables switching between the sensing/emitting units to selectively bring a desired sensing/emitting unit exclusively into its respective operative state while concurrently bringing a remainder of the sensing/emitting units each to a respective non-operative state.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2012Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: ELTA SYSTEMS LTD.Inventor: David Baumatz
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Patent number: 9134174Abstract: A laser detection and warning system and associated methods of warning a pilot of an aircraft of incoming laser radiation and determining a location of a source of laser radiation including a detector configured to be mounted to an aircraft, the detector having an optical subsystem, a detector subsystem, and a processor subsystem to determine characteristics of incoming laser radiation and transmit a laser warning output signal, wherein the laser warning output signal may include wavelength characteristics of the laser radiation, corresponding protective eyewear type, and location of the source of the laser radiation.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2013Date of Patent: September 15, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Douglas R. Jungwirth
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Patent number: 9041589Abstract: A system for determining a coverage region of a radar device is disclosed. The system may have one or more processors and a memory. The memory may store instructions that, when executed, enable the one or more processors to receive radar data generated by a radar device and lidar data generated by a lidar device. The radar data may include radar data points representing objects detected by the radar device and the lidar data may include lidar data points representing objects detected by the lidar device. The one or more processors may be further enabled to determine a radar coverage region for the radar device by comparing one or more radar data points to one or more lidar data points, and to generate data used to display a graphical representation of the radar coverage region.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Hong Chang, Bradley Scott Kriel, Michael Sean McDaniel
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Patent number: 9030351Abstract: A land-based Smart-Sensor System and several system architectures for detection, tracking, and classification of people and vehicles automatically and in real time for border, property, and facility security surveillance is described. The preferred embodiment of the proposed Smart-Sensor System is comprised of (1) a low-cost, non-coherent radar, whose function is to detect and track people, singly or in groups, and various means of transportation, which may include vehicles, animals, or aircraft, singly or in groups, and cue (2) an optical sensor such as a long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensor, whose function is to classify the identified targets and produce movie clips for operator validation and use, and (3) an IBM CELL supercomputer to process the collected data in real-time. The Smart Sensor System can be implemented in a tower-based or a mobile-based, or combination system architecture. The radar can also be operated as a stand-alone system.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Vista Research, Inc.Inventors: Phillip A. Fox, Joseph W. Maresca, Jr.