Patent Publication Number: US-2022234515-A1

Title: Sensor Assemblies and Object Detection in Vehicles

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to vehicle sensor assemblies. More specifically, the present disclosure describes sensor assemblies that are supported at an angle in relation to a vehicle&#39;s longitudinal axis (length) to improve object detection. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventionally, sensor assemblies are oriented in parallel relation to a vehicle&#39;s longitudinal axis (length), which may impede the close-range detection of external objects. 
     To address this concern, the present disclosure describes sensor assemblies that are angled in relation to a vehicle&#39;s longitudinal axis, which improves sensing and the detection of external objects. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is disclosed that includes a vehicle body and at least one sensor assembly that is supported on the vehicle body. The at least one sensor assembly is configured to detect an external object and includes a housing portion and a sensor that is supported within the housing portion such that the sensor is oriented at a fixed (e.g., downward) angle. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may be supported on a rear end portion of the vehicle. 
     In certain embodiments, the vehicle may further include a rear bumper. 
     In various embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may be supported on or vertically above the rear bumper (e.g., on the vehicle&#39;s trunk lid). 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may be supported on the vehicle body such that the fixed, downward angle lies substantially within a range of (approximately) 15° to (approximately) 45°. For example, it is envisioned that the fixed, downward angle may be (approximately) 30°. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may include a first sensor assembly that is spaced from a first lateral (side) end of the vehicle and a second sensor assembly that is spaced from a second lateral end (side) of the vehicle. 
     In certain embodiments, the first sensor assembly may be spaced a first distance from the first lateral end of the vehicle and the second sensor assembly may be spaced a second distance from the second lateral end of the vehicle. 
     In certain embodiments, the first distance and the second distance may be (approximately) equivalent. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may further include a third sensor assembly that is spaced between the first sensor assembly and the second sensor assembly and a fourth sensor assembly that is spaced between the second sensor assembly and the third sensor assembly. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may further include a retaining member that extends laterally outward from the housing portion and a collar that is supported adjacent to an end of the housing portion. 
     In certain embodiments, the retaining member and the collar may define a receiving space therebetween that is configured to receive the vehicle body such that the vehicle body is located between the retaining member and the collar to thereby secure the at least one sensor assembly in relation to the vehicle body. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may include an indicator to facilitate proper orientation of the at least one sensor assembly in relation to the vehicle body during installation. 
     In certain embodiments, the housing portion may define an opening that is configured to receive a locking member to further secure the at least one sensor assembly in relation to the vehicle body. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is disclosed that includes a vehicle body and at least one sensor assembly that is supported on the vehicle body. The at least one sensor assembly includes a housing portion and a sensor that is supported within the housing portion. The housing portion includes a trunk that extends along a first axis and a receptacle that extends into the trunk along a second axis, wherein the second axis is oriented at a fixed angle in relation to the first axis. The sensor is configured to detect an external object and is supported within the receptacle. 
     In certain embodiments, the receptacle may extend into the trunk such that the fixed angle is (approximately) 30°. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may include a plurality of sensor assemblies that are spaced (approximately) equidistant from each other. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may be supported on a rear end portion of the vehicle. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least one sensor assembly may further include a deflectable retention member that extends laterally outward from the housing portion and a collar that is supported adjacent to an end of the housing portion. 
     In certain embodiments, the vehicle body may be received between the deflectable retention member and the collar during installation of the at least one sensor assembly to thereby secure the at least one sensor assembly in relation to the vehicle body. 
     In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of installing at least one sensor assembly in a vehicle is disclosed that includes inserting at least one sensor assembly into an opening in a body of the vehicle such that the at least one sensor assembly defines a sensing axis fixedly oriented in non-parallel relation to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. 
     In certain embodiments, inserting the at least one sensor assembly into the opening may include inserting the at least one sensor assembly such that the sensing axis is oriented downwardly so as to define an angle with the longitudinal axis substantially within a range of (approximately) 15° to (approximately) 45°. 
     In certain embodiments, inserting the at least one sensor assembly into the opening may include supporting the at least one sensor assembly on a rear end portion of the vehicle. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       According to common practice, the various features of the drawings may not be to scale and may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. 
         FIG. 1  is a rear, plan view illustrating a plurality of sensor assemblies supported on a vehicle according to the principles of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  is a partial, side, plan view of a vehicle and a known sensor assembly that is mounted such that the sensing axis is (approximately) aligned with a longitudinal axis (length) of the vehicle. 
         FIG. 3  is a partial, side, plan view of the vehicle and the sensor assemblies seen in  FIG. 1  illustrating an angular offset between the sensing axis and the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. 
         FIG. 4  is a top, perspective, view of a sensor assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure illustrating the connection of a wiring harness. 
         FIG. 5  is bottom, plan view of the sensor assembly seen in  FIG. 4  shown separated from the vehicle. 
         FIG. 6  is side, plan view of the sensor assembly seen in  FIG. 4  upon installation. 
         FIG. 7  is a partial, side, cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly taken along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 8  is a partial, bottom, perspective, cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly taken along line  8 - 8  in  FIG. 6 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present disclosure describes sensor assemblies that are configured to improve the detection of close-range external objects as well as vehicles that include such sensor assemblies. More specifically, the present disclosure describes sensor assemblies defining a detection axis that is oriented at a (downward) angle in relation to the longitudinal axis (length) of the vehicle, which alters the detection area to facilitate the detection of external objects located in close proximity to the vehicle. Throughout the present disclosure, the term “downward” should be understood as referring to an orientation that is angled towards the ground and/or a lower portion of the vehicle while the term “upward” should be understood as referring to an orientation that is angled away from the ground and towards an upper portion of the vehicle. Additionally, the terms “supported,” “secured,” and “mounted” (and variations thereof) may be used interchangeably throughout the present disclosure and should each be understood as referring to a physical connection between the pertinent structures and/or components. 
     The sensor assemblies described herein may be supported on a vehicle in any suitable location (e.g., on a front or rear bumper, on the trunk lid, on the vehicle&#39;s grille, etc.) and include a housing portion and a sensor that is supported within the housing portion. The housing portion includes a trunk that extends along a first axis oriented in (generally) parallel relation to the vehicle&#39;s longitudinal axis (upon installation) and a receptacle that extends into the trunk. The receptacle is configured to accommodate (receive) the sensor and extends along a second axis that is oriented at a fixed (e.g., downward) angle in relation to the first axis. 
     With reference now to the figures, a vehicle  10  ( FIG. 1 ) is disclosed that includes a vehicle body  12  defining a longitudinal axis Y ( FIG. 3 ) that extends along (is parallel in relation to) the length of the vehicle  10 . The vehicle body  12  includes a front end portion (not shown) with a front bumper and a rear end portion  14  with a rear bumper  16  and a trunk lid  18 . Although (generally) illustrated as a passenger coupe throughout the figures, it should be appreciated that the particular configuration of the vehicle  10  may be altered in various embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, it is envisioned that the vehicle  10  may be configured as a sedan, a pickup truck, a stake body vehicle, a cargo van, a motorcycle, a boat, a commercial vehicle (e.g., a bus, a forklift, or the like), etc. 
     The vehicle  10  includes one or more sensor assemblies  100  that are configured to detect (e.g., observe, identify, etc.) an external object and/or measure the longitudinal (axial) distance between the vehicle  10  and the external object. Although generally discussed in the context of a sonar-based system, it is envisioned that the principles of the present disclosure and the structures and methods described herein below may find wide applicability to a broad range of sensing technologies, whether presently known or later developed. 
     In the particular embodiment of the disclosure seen in  FIG. 1 , the sensor assemblies  100  are illustrated as being supported on (e.g., mounted, secured to) the rear end portion  14  of the vehicle body  12 . More specifically, the sensor assemblies  100  are supported on an upper section  20  of the trunk lid  18  such that the sensor assembl(ies)  100  are located vertically above the rear bumper  16 . It should be appreciated, however, that the location of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  may be altered in various embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, it is envisioned that the sensor assembl(ies)  100  may be supported on a lower section of the trunk lid  18 , on the rear bumper  16 , on the front end portion (not shown) of the vehicle  10  (e.g., on the front bumper, the front grille, etc.), on a side of the vehicle  10  (e.g., on either or both of side view mirrors), or in any other location(s) suitable for the intended purpose of improving the detection of external objects. 
     In the particular embodiment of the disclosure seen in  FIG. 1 , the vehicle  10  is illustrated as including four (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth) sensor assemblies  100   i ,  100   ii ,  100   iii ,  100   iv . The sensor assemblies  100   i - 100   iv  are spaced outwardly of a (horizontal) centerpoint C of the vehicle body  12  (e.g., the trunk lid  18 ) by lateral distances Li-Liv, respectively. More specifically, the sensor assemblies  100   i ,  100   iii  and the sensor assemblies  100   ii ,  100   iv  are positioned on opposite sides of the center point C such that the sensor assembly  100   i  is located between the sensor assemblies  100   ii ,  100   iii  and the sensor assembly  100   ii  is located between the sensor assemblies  100   i ,  100   iv , whereby the sensor assemblies  100   iii ,  100   iv  are spaced inwardly of opposing (first and second) lateral ends (sides) L 1 , L 2  of the vehicle body  12  by (first and second) lateral distances Lv, Lvi, respectively. 
     Depending upon the particular model and/or configuration of the vehicle  10 , the particular mounting location of the sensor assemblies  100 , spatial allowances of the mounting location, the desired aesthetic appearance, etc., in various embodiments of the disclosure, it is envisioned that the location and/or the number of sensor assemblies  100  included on the vehicle  10  may be varied. For example, in the particular embodiment illustrated, the sensor assemblies  100   i - 100   iv  are positioned such that adjacent sensor assemblies  100  are spaced (approximately) equidistant from each other by a distance S and such that the lateral distances Lv, Lvi are (approximately) equivalent. More specifically, the sensor assemblies  100   i - 100   iv  are positioned such that the distance S lies substantially within the range of (approximately) 20 cm to (approximately) 60 cm (e.g., (approximately) 40 cm). Embodiments in which the distance S between adjacent sensor assemblies  100  may lie outside of this range, however, are also contemplated herein, as are embodiments in which the lateral distances Lv, Lvi may vary from each other. The present disclosure also envisions embodiments in which the number of sensor assemblies  100  included on the vehicle  10  may be increased or decreased. For example, it is envisioned that the vehicle V may include a single sensor assembly  100 , a single pair of sensor assemblies, three pairs of sensor assemblies, etc. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 2 and 3  as well, a conventional vehicle  10 ′ ( FIG. 2 ) is illustrated that includes one or more known sensor assemblies  100 ′. The vehicle  10 ′ is identical to the vehicle  10  discussed above, except for the configuration and orientation of the sensor assemblies  100 ′, as elaborated upon below. 
     Each sensor assembly  100 ′ defines a detection area A′ and is supported on (mounted to) the vehicle  10 ′ such that a sensing (central, detection) axis X′ defined by the sensor assembly  100 ′ (e.g., an axis bisecting the detection area A′) is (generally) aligned with the longitudinal axis Y′ of the vehicle  10 ′. This arrangement, however, results in spacing of the detection area A′ from the mounting location of the sensor assembl(ies)  100 ′ (e.g., the rear end portion  14 ′ of the vehicle  10 ) by an axial (longitudinal) distance B′. 
     In contrast, as seen in  FIG. 3 , the sensor assembl(ies)  100  that are the subject of the present disclosure are supported on (secured to) the vehicle  10  in an angled orientation. More specifically, each sensor assembly  100  defines a detection area A and a sensing (central, detection) axis X, which bisects the detection area A, that is out of alignment with the longitudinal axis Y of the vehicle  10 . Each sensor assembly  100  is configured and mounted so as to defined an angle α between the sensing axis X and the longitudinal axis Y that lies substantially within the range of (approximately) 15° to (approximately) 45° (e.g., (approximately) 30°). Depending on the particular mounting location of the sensor assembl(ies)  100 , however, it is envisioned that the angle α may be altered by varying the configuration and/or mounting of each sensor assembly  100 . For example, the angle α may be increased when the sensor assembl(ies)  100  are mounted at more elevated locations or decreased when the sensor assembl(ies)  100  are mounted at less elevated locations. It should also be appreciated that the sensor assembl(ies)  100  may be configured and mounted so as to define values for the angle α that lie outside of the aforementioned range and that such alternate embodiments would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, while generally illustrated and described herein as being angled downwardly (e.g., towards the ground G), it is also envisioned that the sensor assembl(ies)  100  may be angled upwardly (e.g., away from the ground G) in alternate embodiments of the disclosure. 
     As can be appreciated through comparative reference to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the downward angle α of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  reduces the distance B between the mounting location (e.g., the rear end portion  14  of the vehicle  10 ) and the detection area A (when compared to the distance B′ ( FIG. 2 )), thereby improving sensing and the detection of external objects. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4-8 , each sensor assembly  100  includes a housing portion  102  and a sensor  104  that is supported within the housing portion  102 . The housing portion  102  includes a trunk (body portion)  106  and a receptacle  108  that extends into the trunk  106  and is configured to receive (accommodate) the sensor  104  such that external objects are detectable by the sensor  104  through a window  110  ( FIG. 5 ) in the housing portion  102 . As seen in  FIG. 4 , the trunk  106  extends along (defines) a first (central) axis Ti and the receptacle  108  extends along (defines) a second (central) axis Tii that is arranged in transverse relation to the first axis Ti (e.g., such that the axes Ti, Tii intersect) so as to subtend the aforementioned (downward) angle α therebetween. 
     The housing portion  102  includes an operative (functional) end  112  defining an end face  114 . The end face  114  is arranged in transverse relation to the axes Ti, Tii and a reference axis R ( FIG. 6 ) that extends in orthogonal relation to the axis Ti, which facilitates insertion of the sensor  104  ( FIG. 4 ) into the receptacle  108 . More specifically, the end face  114  extends along an axis E so as to subtend an angle β with the reference axis R that is (approximately) equivalent to the angle α. 
     Due to the non-parallel relationship between the axes Ti, Tii, the housing portion  102  defines an overall outer transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) D larger than that defined by known sensor assemblies, such as the sensor assembly  100 ′ seen in  FIG. 2 . For example, whereas the sensor assembly  100 ′ may define an overall outer transverse cross-sectional dimension that lies substantially within the range of (approximately) 20 mm to (approximately) 23 mm (e.g., (approximately) 22.5 mm), it is envisioned that the overall outer transverse cross-sectional dimension D defined by the sensor assembly  100  may lie substantially within the range of (approximately) 23 mm to (approximately) 26 mm (e.g., (approximately) 24.5 mm). Embodiments in which the overall outer transverse cross-sectional dimension D may lie outside of this range, however, are also contemplated herein and would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The housing portion  102  may include (e.g., may be formed partially or entirely from) any suitable material or combination of materials and may be formed through any suitable method of manufacture (e.g., injection molding, casting, laser machining, etc.). For example, it is envisioned that the housing portion  102  may include (e.g., may be formed partially or entirely from) a plastic material, such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Additionally, or alternatively, it is envisioned that the housing portion  102  may include one or more shock-absorbent materials to dampen vibration (e.g., to increase the accuracy and/or reliability of object detection). 
     In the particular embodiment of the disclosure illustrated throughout the figures, the housing portion  102  is unitary in construction (e.g., is integrally or monolithically formed). The unitary construction of the housing portion  102  fixes the relative orientation of the axes Ti, Tii ( FIG. 4 ) as well as the relative orientation of the sensing axis X ( FIG. 3 ) in relation to the longitudinal axis Y of the vehicle  10 , thereby fixing the (downward) angle α of each sensor  104  upon installation of the corresponding sensor assembly  100  such that the sensing axis X is oriented in non-parallel relation to the longitudinal axis Y. 
     The trunk  106  of the housing portion  102  defines an open interior region  116  (e.g., a cavity  118 ) that extends in generally parallel relation to the axis Ti defined by the trunk  106 . The open interior region  116  is configured to receive a wiring harness  120  ( FIG. 4 ) to facilitate (electrical) connection of the sensor assembly  100  to the vehicle  10 . The trunk  106  defines a shoulder (shelf)  122  that extends radially inwardly into the open interior region  116 . The shoulder  122  defines an inner (lower) end  124  of the receptacle  108  and provides a support  126  for the sensor  104  upon insertion into the receptacle  108 . The shoulder  122  is generally arcuate in configuration and spans a distance (e.g., an arc length) that lies substantially within the range of (approximately) 75° to (approximately) 105°. For example, it is envisioned that the shoulder  122  may span a distance (e.g., an arc length) of (approximately) 90°. Embodiments in which the distance (arc length) spanned defined by the shoulder  122  may lie outside of this range, however, are also contemplated herein and would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The receptacle  108  ( FIG. 4 ) is generally cylindrical in configuration and, as indicated above, is configured to receive the sensor  104 . It is envisioned that sensor  104  may be received within the receptacle  108  in either a fixed or removable manner. For example, it is envisioned that the sensor  104  may be secured within the receptacle  108  via an adhesive (or other such fixed connection). Alternatively, the receptacle  108  may define one or more recesses  128  that are configured to receive one or more corresponding retaining members (anchors)  130  that extend laterally (e.g., radially) outward from the sensor  104 . For example, in the particular embodiment of the disclosure, the receptacle  108  is illustrated as including four recesses  128  that are separated from each other by (approximately) 90° (e.g., such that the recesses  128  are spaced (approximately) equidistant from each other) and the sensor  104  is illustrated as including four corresponding retaining members  130  that are spaced accordingly. Embodiments in which the number and/or the location of the recesses  128  and the retaining members  130  may be varied are also contemplated herein, however, and would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. 
     In the particular embodiment of the disclosure illustrated throughout the figures, the retaining member(s)  130  are illustrated as tab(s)  132  that are resilient in construction, which allows for reconfiguration of the retaining member(s)  130  between an expanded (first, initial, normal) configuration and a compressed (second, subsequent) configuration. It is envisioned that resiliency of the retaining member(s)  130  may be achieved through the incorporation of one or more compressible materials (e.g., rubber materials, polymeric materials, elastomeric materials, etc.) and/or the incorporation of one or more compressible biasing members (e.g., springs or the like). 
     Upon the application of an external force, such as that applied by the housing portion  102  during insertion of the sensor  104  into the receptacle  108 , the retaining member(s)  130  are compressed (deflected inwardly) and move towards the axis Tii. To facilitate inward deflection of the retaining member(s)  130  during insertion of the sensor  104  into the receptacle  108 , it is envisioned that the retaining member(s)  130  may include chamfered (angled) radial surfaces  134  that are configured for contact with the housing portion  102  (e.g., with a rim  136  ( FIG. 5 ) and/or an inner wall  138  ( FIG. 7 ) of the receptacle  108 ). During insertion of the sensor  104  into the receptacle  108 , the chamfered radial surfaces  134  bear against the housing portion  102 , which causes compression (inward deflection) of the retaining member(s)  130 . 
     Upon complete insertion of the sensor  104  into the receptacle  108 , the retaining member(s)  130  are aligned with the recesses  128  (along the axis Tii), at which time, the resilient construction of the retaining member(s)  130  allows for outward movement of the retaining member(s)  130  (away from the axis Tii) towards the expanded configuration. As the expanded configuration is (partially or completely) restored, the retaining member(s)  130  expand into the recesses  128 , thereby securing the sensor  104  within the receptacle  108 . 
     In certain embodiments, as mentioned above, it is envisioned that the sensor  104  may be removable from the housing portion  102  (e.g., to facilitate repair or replacement of the sensor  104 ). In such embodiments, it is envisioned that, during removal of the sensor  104 , the retaining member(s)  130  may be moved towards the compressed configuration via the application of a withdrawal force F 1  ( FIG. 4 ). To facilitate inward deflection of the retaining member(s)  130  during removal of the sensor  104  from the receptacle  108 , it is envisioned that the retaining member(s)  130  may include chamfered (angled) upper surfaces  140  that are configured for contact with the upper walls  142  ( FIG. 7 ) defined by the recesses  128 . During removal of the sensor  104  from the receptacle  108 , the chamfered upper surfaces  140  bear against the upper walls  142 , which causes compression (inward deflection) of the retaining member(s)  130 . 
     Additionally, or alternatively, in certain embodiments, it is envisioned that the housing portion  102  may include a series of openings  144  ( FIGS. 4, 6 ) that extend from the recesses  128  through the housing portion  102  and are configured to receive a tool (not shown) such that the retaining member(s)  130  may be manually compressed upon the application of a force thereto via the tool to thereby facilitate removal of the sensor  104 . 
     As seen in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , for example, in the particular embodiment of the disclosure illustrated throughout the figures, each sensor assembly  100  includes one or more retaining members (anchors)  146  that extend laterally (e.g., radially) outward from the housing portion  102  in a similar or identical manner to the retaining member(s)  130  ( FIG. 4 ) discussed above. For example, in the embodiment illustrated, the sensor assembly  100  is illustrated as including two retaining members  146  that are separated from each other by (approximately) 180° (e.g., such that the retaining members  146  are spaced (approximately) equidistant from each other). Embodiments in which the number and/or the location of the retaining members  146  may be varied are also contemplated herein, however, and would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. 
     In the particular embodiment of the disclosure illustrated throughout the figures, the retaining member(s)  146  are illustrated as tab(s)  148  that are resilient in construction, which allows for reconfiguration of the retaining member(s)  146  between an expanded (first, initial, normal) configuration and a compressed (second, subsequent) configuration. As discussed above in connection with the retaining member(s)  130  ( FIG. 4 ), it is envisioned that resiliency of the retaining member(s)  146  may be achieved through the incorporation of one or more compressible materials (e.g., rubber materials, polymeric materials, elastomeric materials, etc.) and/or the incorporation of one or more compressible biasing members (e.g., springs or the like). 
     Upon the application of an external force, such as that applied during the insertion of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  into corresponding opening(s) O ( FIG. 1 ) formed in the vehicle body  12  (e.g. the trunk lid  18 ), the retaining member(s)  146  are compressed (deflected inwardly) and move towards the axis Ti ( FIG. 4 ). To facilitate inward deflection of the retaining member(s)  146 , it is envisioned that the retaining member(s)  146  may include chamfered (angled) radial surfaces  150  that are configured for contact with the vehicle body  12  adjacent to the opening O. As the sensor assembl(ies)  100  are advanced through the opening(s) O, the chamfered radial surfaces  150  bear against the vehicle body  12 , which causes compression (inward deflection) of the retaining member(s)  146 . 
     Upon complete insertion of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  into the opening(s)  0 , the resilient construction of the retaining member(s)  146  allows for outward movement of the retaining member(s)  146  (away from the axis Ti) towards the expanded configuration behind (inwardly of) the vehicle body  12 . Upon (partial or complete) restoration of the expanded configuration, the retaining member(s)  146  secure the sensor assembl(ies)  100  within the opening(s) O (e.g., via contact between an upper surface  152  of each retaining member  146  and an inner surface I of the vehicle body  12 ). 
     To facilitate repair or replacement of the sensor assembly  100 , it is envisioned that the sensor assembl(ies)  100  may be configured for removable insertion into the opening(s) O. In such embodiments, it is envisioned that the retaining member(s)  146  may be moved towards the compressed configuration via the application of a withdrawal force F 2  ( FIG. 3 ). To facilitate inward deflection of the retaining member(s)  146  during removal of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  from the opening(s) O, it is envisioned that the upper surface  152  of each retaining member  146  may be chamfered (angled) such that, during removal of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  from the opening(s) O, the upper surface(s)  152  bear against the inner surface I so as to causes compression (inward deflection) of the retaining member(s)  146 . Additionally, or alternatively, it is envisioned that the retaining member(s)  146  may be accessed and manually compressed (deflected radially inward) by a technician. 
     In certain embodiments of the disclosure, such as that illustrated throughout the figures, it is envisioned that the housing portion  102  (e.g., the trunk  106 ) may include one or more openings  154  (e.g., through-holes  156 ) ( FIGS. 5, 6 ) that are configured to receive a corresponding locking member  158 , such as a rod, a clip, or any other such suitable structure or mechanism, to further secure each sensor assembly  100  in relation to the vehicle body  12 . Following installation of the sensor assembl(ies)  100 , the locking member(s)  158  are inserted into the opening(s)  154  such that they are obscured, concealed, or otherwise hidden from view by the vehicle body  12 . 
     In such embodiments, it is envisioned that the locking member(s)  158  may be configured in any manner suitable for the intended purpose of engaging the housing portion  102  so as to inhibit (if not entirely prevent) unauthorized or undesired removal (e.g., theft) of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  from the vehicle  10 . For example, it is envisioned that the locking (anti-theft) member(s)  158  may be keyed to the opening(s)  154 , that the locking member(s)  158  may include one or more spring-biased (ball) detents, etc. 
     In the particular embodiment of the disclosure illustrated throughout the figures, each sensor assembly  100  further includes a collar  160  that is located (supported) adjacent to (at) the operative end  112  of the housing portion  102 . The collar  160  extends from the end face  114  of the housing portion  102  towards the retaining member(s)  146  so as to define a receiving space  162  ( FIGS. 5, 8 ) therebetween that is configured to receive the vehicle body  12  ( FIG. 6 ) such that the vehicle body  12  is secured between the collar  160  and the retaining member(s)  146  upon complete insertion of the sensor assembly  100  into the opening O in the vehicle body  12 . 
     In various embodiments of the disclosure, it is envisioned that the housing portion  102  and the collar  160  may be integrally (e.g., monolithically) formed or, alternatively, that the housing portion  102  and the collar  160  may be formed as separate, discrete components of the sensor assembly  100 . In such embodiments, is envisioned that the housing portion  102  and the collar  160  may be fixedly or removably secured together (connected) in any suitable manner, such as, for example, through the use of an adhesive and/or one or more mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, pins, rivets, clips, etc.). 
     The collar  160  includes a body (shroud)  164  that is generally cylindrical in configuration and a finishing ring  166 . The collar  160  may include (e.g., may be formed partially or entirely from) any suitable material or combination of materials and may be formed through any suitable method of manufacture (e.g., injection molding, casting, laser machining, etc.). For example, it is envisioned that the collar  160  may include (e.g., may be formed partially or entirely from) one or more resilient and/or shock-absorbent materials to dampen vibration (e.g., to increase the accuracy and/or reliability of object detection). 
     As seen in  FIG. 6 , for example, the finishing ring  166  is arranged in (generally) parallel relation to the end face  114  of the housing portion  102  (and the axis E), whereby the finishing ring  166  also extends at the angle β in relation to the reference axis R. The finishing ring  166  defines a thickness T ( FIG. 8 ) and extends outwardly from the body  164  of the collar  160  along both the axis Ti and the axis E, which not only obscures (e.g., conceals) the opening(s)  0  ( FIG. 1 ) in the vehicle body  12 , thereby improving the overall aesthetic appearance of the vehicle  10 , but provides a barrier between the housing portion  102 , the sensor  104 , and an external object. In the event of contact with an external object, it is envisioned that the finishing ring  166  may absorb force that would otherwise be applied directly to the housing portion  102  and/or the sensor  104 , thereby protecting the housing portion  102  and the sensor  104  and inhibiting (if not entirely preventing) any damage to the housing portion  102  and the sensor  104  that may occur in the absence of the finishing ring  166 . 
     In certain alternate embodiments of the disclosure, it is envisioned that the collar  160  may be replaced by an O-ring (or other such suitable structure or member) or that the collar  160  may be omitted altogether (e.g., to reduce the overall cost of the sensor assembly  100 ). 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 1 and 3-8 , a method of installing one or more of the aforedescribed sensor assemblies  100  in the vehicle  10  will be discussed. During installation, each sensor assembly  100  is inserted into and advanced through one of the corresponding openings O ( FIG. 1 ) in the vehicle body  12  (e.g., the trunk lid  18  at the rear end portion  14  of the vehicle  10 ). As the sensor assembl(ies)  100  are advance through the opening(s) O, the chamfered radial surface(s)  150  ( FIGS. 5, 6 ) of the retaining member(s)  146  contact and bear against the vehicle body  12 , which results in inward deflection of the retaining member(s)  146 . Advancement of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  continues until the vehicle body  12  is received by the receiving space  162  ( FIG. 5 ) defined between the retaining member(s)  146  and the collar  160  of each sensor assembly  100 . Upon (or subsequent to) receipt of the vehicle body  12  within the receiving space  162 , the retaining member(s)  146  expand behind the vehicle body  12  to thereby secure the vehicle body  12  between the retaining member(s)  146  and the collar  160 , as seen in  FIG. 6 , for example. 
     During installation of the sensor assembl(ies)  100 , it is envisioned that the body  164  of each collar  160  may be compressed against the vehicle body  12 , thereby improving securement of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  in relation to the vehicle body  12  by inhibiting (if not entirely preventing) relative movement (rattle) between the sensor assembl(ies)  100  and the vehicle body  12 . 
     The sensor assembl(ies)  100  are configured such that, upon installation, each sensor assembly  100  is supported on (connected to) the vehicle body  12  (within a corresponding opening O) such that the axis Ti ( FIG. 4 ) defined by the trunk  106  of the housing portion  102  is oriented in (generally) parallel relation to the longitudinal axis Y ( FIG. 3 ) of the vehicle body  12  and the axis Tii is oriented in transverse relation to both the axis Ti and the longitudinal axis Y. As a result, each sensor  104  is oriented such that the sensing axis X thereof is oriented in non-parallel relation to the longitudinal axis Y at the aforementioned (downward) angle α. 
     To facilitate proper installation of the sensor assembl(ies)  100  and orientation of the sensors  104 , in certain embodiments, is envisioned that each sensor assembly  100  may include an indicator (installation guide)  168  ( FIG. 5 ), which may include any suitable indicia (e.g., an arrow, a line, etc.) positioned in any suitable location, such as, for example, on the end face  114  of the housing portion  102 , on the collar  160 , etc. The indicator  168  guards against improper installation by providing a visual marker identifying the orientation required to angle the sensor  104  in the intended manner (e.g., towards the ground G). 
     Following proper installation of the sensor assembl(ies)  100 , the locking member(s)  158  ( FIG. 6 ) may be inserted into the opening(s)  154  in the housing portion  102  of each sensor assembly  100  to inhibit (if not entirely prevent) removal (e.g., theft) of the sensor assembl(ies)  100 . 
     Persons skilled in the art will understand that the various embodiments of the disclosure described herein and shown in the accompanying figures constitute non-limiting examples, and that additional components and features may be added to any of the embodiments discussed herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, persons skilled in the art will understand that the elements and features shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with those of another embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and will appreciate further features and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter based on the description provided. Variations, combinations, and/or modifications to any of the embodiments and/or features of the embodiments described herein that are within the abilities of a person having ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the disclosure, as are alternative embodiments that may result from combining, integrating, and/or omitting features from any of the disclosed embodiments. 
     Use of the term “optionally” with respect to any element of a claim means that the element may be included or omitted, with both alternatives being within the scope of the claim. Additionally, use of broader terms, such as “comprises,” “includes,” and “having,” should be understood to provide support for narrower terms, such as “consisting of,” “consisting essentially of,” and “comprised substantially of.” Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above but is defined by the claims that follow and includes all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. 
     In the preceding description, reference may be made to the spatial relationship between the various structures illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and to the spatial orientation of the structures. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of this disclosure, the structures described herein may be positioned and oriented in any manner suitable for their intended purpose. Thus, the use of terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “left,” “right,” “upward,” “downward,” “inward,” “outward,” etc., should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the structures and/or a spatial orientation of the structures. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the use of such terms may be provided in the context of the illustrations provided by the corresponding figure(s). 
     Additionally, terms such as “approximately,” “generally,” “substantially,” and the like should be understood to allow for variations in any numerical range or concept with which they are associated. For example, it is intended that the use of terms such as “approximately,” “generally,” and “substantially” should be understood to encompass variations on the order of 25% (e.g., to allow for manufacturing tolerances and/or deviations in design). 
     Although terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various operations, elements, components, regions, and/or sections, these operations, elements, components, regions, and/or sections should not be limited by the use of these terms in that these terms are used to distinguish one operation, element, component, region, or section from another. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, a first operation, element, component, region, or section could be termed a second operation, element, component, region, or section without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and represents embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” and “A and/or B and/or C” should each be interpreted to include only A, only B, only C, or any combination of A, B, and C.