ELMOS Semiconductor has developed a method and device for detecting uneven surfaces in vehicle environments using ultrasonic signals. By comparing reflection signals at different angles, the system can determine surface conditions and alert the vehicle’s navigation system or trigger an alarm if necessary. GlobalData’s report on ELMOS Semiconductor gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on ELMOS Semiconductor, Photonic quantum communication was a key innovation area identified from patents. ELMOS Semiconductor's grant share as of January 2024 was 49%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Method for detecting uneven surfaces in vehicle environments using ultrasonic signals

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: ELMOS Semiconductor AG

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11851065B2) discloses a method for detecting surface unevenness and curvature in a vehicle environment using ultrasonic signals. The method involves emitting ultrasonic signals from sensors on a vehicle at different angles relative to the surface, receiving reflection signals, and comparing the timing of these signals to determine the presence of unevenness or curvature. By analyzing the difference between expected and actual timings, the system can identify surface conditions such as potholes, rocks, or steps. The technology also includes a device with ultrasound sensors that emit and receive signals, converting them into reflection signals for analysis. The device can detect flat surfaces, negative surface unevenness, or positive surface unevenness based on the timing of reflections, providing valuable information for vehicle navigation and safety systems.

Furthermore, the patent details a method for executing amplitude-based cross-correlation between temporal segments of reflection signals from different sensors to generate a cross-correlation signal. This signal helps in determining the presence of surface unevenness or curvature in the vehicle environment. The device is designed to compare the timing of reflection signals with predetermined time windows to identify flat surfaces, negative surface unevenness, or positive surface unevenness. In case of significant surface changes exceeding predefined thresholds, the system can alert the driver or a superordinate computer for appropriate action. Overall, this patented technology offers a sophisticated approach to detecting and responding to surface conditions in real-time, enhancing vehicle safety and navigation capabilities in various environments.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.