17806023. SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC DIMENSIONING OF VEHICLE AND TRAILER FROM SHADOW PROFILING simplified abstract (GM Global Technology Operations LLC)

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SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC DIMENSIONING OF VEHICLE AND TRAILER FROM SHADOW PROFILING

Organization Name

GM Global Technology Operations LLC

Inventor(s)

Utkarsh Saini of Pickering (CA)

Steffen P. Lindenthal of Oshawa (CA)

Sai Vishnu Aluru of Commerce Twpl. MI (US)

Sravan Daruri of Walled Lake MI (US)

Norman J. Weigert of Whitby (CA)

Fred W. Huntzicker of Ann Arbor MI (US)

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC DIMENSIONING OF VEHICLE AND TRAILER FROM SHADOW PROFILING - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17806023 titled 'SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC DIMENSIONING OF VEHICLE AND TRAILER FROM SHADOW PROFILING

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a system in a vehicle that can calculate the vehicle's dimensions using solar shadow information.

  • The system calculates the position of the sun and the expected shadow of the vehicle based on the location, time, and dynamics of the vehicle.
  • It then detects the actual shadow of the vehicle using a camera.
  • The system compares the actual shadow to the expected shadow to determine the vehicle's dimension profile and maximum height point, taking into account any cargo on the vehicle.
  • It calculates a confidence level for the dimension profile and maximum height point.
  • If the confidence level is above a certain threshold, the system provides dimension notifications.

Potential applications of this technology:

  • This system can be used in autonomous vehicles to accurately determine the dimensions of the vehicle and its cargo, which can be useful for navigation and avoiding obstacles.
  • It can also be used in logistics and transportation industries to ensure that vehicles are loaded within their height limits and to prevent damage to overhead structures.

Problems solved by this technology:

  • This system solves the problem of accurately calculating the dimensions of a vehicle and its cargo in real-time.
  • It eliminates the need for manual measurements or estimations, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Benefits of this technology:

  • The system provides accurate and real-time dimension calculations, which can improve the safety and efficiency of vehicle operations.
  • It reduces the risk of accidents or damage caused by vehicles exceeding their height limits.
  • The system can be integrated into existing vehicle camera systems, making it cost-effective and easy to implement.


Original Abstract Submitted

A dimension calculation system in a host vehicle for dynamically calculating a vehicle dimension using solar shadow information is disclosed. The system is configured to: calculate solar position and an expected vehicle shadow based on geocode location, time and vehicle dynamics; detect an actual vehicle shadow in an image from a vehicle camera; compare the actual vehicle shadow to an expected vehicle shadow; determine a dimension profile and max height point for a vehicle plus vehicle cargo based on a comparison of the actual vehicle shadow to the expected vehicle shadow; calculate a confidence level for the dimension profile and max height point for the vehicle plus cargo; and use the dimension profile and max height point to provide one or more dimension notifications when the confidence level for the dimension profile and max height point for the vehicle plus cargo are above a first threshold level.