Parking information collection methods and systems, image acquisition devices and their control methods

Abstract

This invention discloses a parking information collection method and system, an image acquisition device, and its control method. In this method, when a vehicle parks in a parking space, a normally open first lens acquires an image of the vehicle and obtains parking information to identify it. If the image acquired through the first lens fails to acquire parking information, a covered second lens is opened to re-acquire the vehicle image and obtain parking information. After acquiring an image through the second lens, the second lens is covered again, and a first alarm message is issued to remind the user that the first lens is not functioning properly. This collection method ensures that vehicle images can be acquired normally under any circumstances, thereby guaranteeing the normal billing management of vehicles parked in parking spaces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of roadside parking space information collection, specifically to a parking information collection method and system, an image acquisition device, and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] In urban areas, a number of roadside parking spaces are usually planned for drivers to park. The collection of fees for these parking spaces generally requires a dedicated person to be responsible for one area. The manual collection of fees increases labor costs and also makes it easy for fees to be missed.

[0003] To address this, existing technologies propose using cameras to capture license plates of vehicles in parking spaces and transmitting the captured vehicle information to a cloud server for billing. However, this approach typically requires mounting the camera on a protruding device such as a video cone, increasing installation costs and potentially damaging the road surface. To solve these problems with existing parking information collection devices, a new approach involves placing the device on the shoulder of the road. The device is secured to the side of the shoulder with bolts, utilizing the portion of the shoulder above the parking space, and then using a camera to collect information. However, this method is problematic because the device is too close to the parking space. When a vehicle parks, its wheels or body may run over or collide with the device, damaging the camera. Alternatively, the exposed camera may become dirty over time, both situations preventing the camera from properly capturing license plates. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the aforementioned defects or problems in the prior art and to provide a parking information collection method and system, an image acquisition device and its control method, which can ensure normal capture of vehicle license plates.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention and its preferred embodiments employ the following technical solutions, but the embodiments are not limited to the following solutions:

[0006] First technical solution: A parking information collection method, comprising: when a vehicle is parked in a parking space, acquiring a vehicle image through a normally open first lens and obtaining parking information for identifying the vehicle; if parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image acquired through the first lens, opening a covered second lens to re-acquire a vehicle image to obtain parking information; after acquiring an image through the second lens, covering the second lens again and issuing a first alarm message to remind that the first lens is not working properly.

[0007] The second technical solution based on the first technical solution: After acquiring a vehicle image through the first lens, it is identified whether the vehicle image includes a license plate. If a license plate is included, the license plate number is extracted as parking information. If a license plate is not included, it is determined that parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image acquired through the first lens.

[0008] A third technical solution based on the second technical solution: After acquiring a vehicle image through the second lens, it is identified whether the vehicle image includes a license plate. If a license plate is included, the license plate number is extracted as parking information. If no license plate is included, a second alarm message is issued to remind that the parking information acquisition failed.

[0009] Fourth technical solution: The present invention also provides an image acquisition device, which includes a body, a first lens, a second lens and a lens cover; the first lens and the second lens are fixedly installed on the body and are used to acquire images; the lens cover is installed on the body and is configured to switch between covering and opening the second lens.

[0010] The fifth technical solution based on the fourth technical solution further includes an image sensor and an optical path switcher; the image sensor is adapted to receive images from the first lens and the second lens to achieve image acquisition; the optical path switcher uses the reflection or refraction of light to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor, so that when the lens cover covers the second lens, the image sensor receives images from the first lens, and when the lens cover is opened, the image sensor receives images from the second lens.

[0011] The sixth technical solution based on the fifth technical solution: the first lens and the second lens are arranged along the first direction and their shooting directions are parallel; the optical path switcher includes a reflector, which is adapted to reciprocate along the first direction between a first position corresponding to the first lens and a second position corresponding to the second lens, and when it is in the first position, it causes the image sensor to receive the image from the first lens through reflection, and when it is in the second position, it causes the image sensor to receive the image from the second lens through reflection.

[0012] The seventh technical solution based on the fifth technical solution: the extension lines of the shooting directions of the first lens and the second lens intersect; the optical path switcher includes a refractive element, which is adapted to rotate relative to the body and switch between a third position and a fourth position. When it is in the first position, the image sensor receives the image from the first lens through refraction, and when it is in the second position, the image sensor receives the image from the second lens through refraction.

[0013] Eighth technical solution: The present invention also provides a control method for an image acquisition device, which is used to acquire parking information through an image acquisition device as described in any one of the fifth to seventh technical solutions above, comprising: when a vehicle is parked in a parking space, controlling the image sensor to acquire a vehicle image through the first lens; when parking information cannot be acquired through the vehicle image acquired through the first lens, controlling the lens cover to open the second lens and causing the optical path switcher to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor, and then controlling the image sensor to acquire a vehicle image through the second lens; after acquiring a vehicle image through the second lens, controlling the lens cover to cover the second lens and causing the optical path switcher to reset.

[0014] Ninth technical solution: The present invention also provides a parking information acquisition system, which includes an image processing module and an image acquisition device as described in any of the fifth to seventh technical solutions above; the image processing module is used to obtain parking information for identifying the vehicle based on the acquired vehicle image, and when parking information cannot be obtained, it sends a first instruction to the image acquisition device based on the first marking information attached to the vehicle image; the image acquisition device is configured to acquire a vehicle image through a first lens and an image sensor and send it to the image processing module when the vehicle is parked in the parking space; the image acquisition device is further configured to, upon receiving the first instruction, open the lens cover and drive the optical path switcher to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor, and then acquire a vehicle image through a second lens and an image sensor and send it to the image processing module; the first marking information is used to mark that the vehicle image was acquired through the first lens.

[0015] The tenth technical solution based on the ninth technical solution further includes an alarm module; the image processing module sends a second instruction to the alarm module while sending the first instruction; the alarm module alerts the first lens that it cannot be used normally after receiving the second instruction.

[0016] As can be seen from the above description of the present invention, compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0017] In the parking information collection method provided by this invention, under normal circumstances, a normally open first lens is used to collect vehicle images. "Normal circumstances" here refers to the situation where the first lens is available. At this time, parking information can be obtained from the vehicle images collected by the first lens. This parking information can be used to identify vehicles parked in parking spaces, facilitating billing management of vehicles parked in those spaces. When it is determined from the vehicle images that parking information cannot be obtained, the previously obscured second lens can be opened, and vehicle images can be collected again through the second lens to obtain parking information. Since the second lens is normally obscured, it is protected by the obstruction and will not suffer damage, dirt, or other abnormal conditions. When the first lens cannot be used normally to collect vehicle images, the available second lens can be used... The first camera captures vehicle images; immediately after capturing the images, it is obscured by an object, returning it to its protective state. Simultaneously, an alarm is triggered to alert staff that the first camera is malfunctioning. Staff can then proceed to the site for maintenance. If staff cannot reach the site immediately, the second camera can be activated to capture vehicle images the next time a vehicle parks in a space where the first camera is unusable, following the same procedure. This method ensures that vehicle images can be captured and parking information obtained under any circumstances, guaranteeing proper billing management of parked vehicles.

[0018] In the image acquisition device and control method provided by this invention, a lens cap is used to cover and open the second lens, which can be used to realize the above-mentioned parking information acquisition method. On this basis, an optical path switcher can also be used to enable an image sensor to receive images from the first lens and the second lens respectively. The optical path switcher uses the reflection or refraction of light to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor. With the optical path switcher and the lens cap, two different lenses can be used to take pictures with a single image sensor, reducing the cost of setting up a complete camera module. Furthermore, the optical path switcher can be linked with the lens cap. When the lens cap covers or opens the second lens, the optical path switcher is driven to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor. This can avoid the situation where the positions of the lens cap and the optical path switcher are mismatched, thereby avoiding the image sensor being unable to accurately determine whether it is receiving the image from the first lens or the second lens. At the same time, it also makes the structure of the image acquisition device more compact and more conducive to miniaturization.

[0019] The parking information acquisition system provided by this invention uses an image processing module to acquire vehicle parking information. At the same time, when parking information cannot be acquired, a first instruction is sent to the image acquisition device based on whether the vehicle image is accompanied by a first marker. After receiving the first instruction, the image acquisition device can control the switch to use a second lens to capture and acquire vehicle images. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments are briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the steps of an embodiment of a parking information collection method provided by the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 This is an installation diagram of an embodiment of an image acquisition device provided by the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of an image acquisition device provided by the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the lens cap and drive assembly;

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating vehicle image acquisition via a first-lens camera;

[0026] Figure 6 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of vehicle image acquisition using a second camera.

[0027] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0028] Image acquisition device 100; shoulder 110; parking space 120; body 10; recess 11; first perimeter 111; second perimeter 112; third perimeter 113; mounting hole 12; fourth perimeter 13; clearance hole 14; mounting surface 15; distance sensor 20; first lens 31; second lens 32; reflector 33; auxiliary reflector 34; image sensor 35; connector 36; lens cap 40; drive motor 51; output gear 511; transmission component 52. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are preferred embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as excluding other embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0030] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the use of terms such as "first," "second," or "third" in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention is for distinguishing different objects and not for describing a specific order.

[0031] Unless otherwise expressly defined, in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the use of directional terms such as "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the specific scope of protection of this invention.

[0032] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "fixed connection" or "fixed connection" used in the claims, description and drawings of this invention should be interpreted broadly to refer to any connection in which there is no displacement or relative rotation relationship between the two parties, including non-removable fixed connection, detachable fixed connection, integral connection and fixed connection by other means or components.

[0033] In the claims, description and accompanying drawings of this invention, the terms "comprising," "having," and variations thereof are used to mean "including but not limited to."

[0034] Example 1

[0035] Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a parking information collection method.

[0036] Parking spaces 120 located on the roadside cannot be equipped with the same vehicle entry and exit management equipment as conventional parking lots, typically requiring manual payment, which is costly and prone to errors. Therefore, existing technologies often utilize imaging devices to photograph vehicles parked in parking spaces 120 and obtain their parking information as a basis for billing. This imaging device can use sensors such as distance sensors 20 to detect vehicle parking positions, or components such as cameras to directly capture vehicle parking information, to determine if a vehicle is parked in parking space 120. When a vehicle is confirmed to be parked in parking space 120, the camera can photograph the license plate, and then a graphic recognition program can extract the license plate number, storing it as parking information in the parking management system. The parking management system can then use this parking information to calculate fees.

[0037] Currently, most of the aforementioned camera devices are pole-mounted structures erected next to parking space 120, placing the camera at a high position to film parking from above. Simultaneously, there are also low-position camera devices installed at shoulder 110, filming parking from below. Both configurations are susceptible to damage. For example, high-positioned cameras are easily obscured by leaves and bird droppings, while low-positioned cameras are not only subject to obscuration by leaves and bird droppings but are also susceptible to contamination or damage from collisions with parked vehicles' wheels.

[0038] Therefore, Example 1 provides a parking information collection method, specifically referring to... Figure 1 The method includes the following steps: when a vehicle is parked in parking space 120, a vehicle image is captured through the normally open first lens 31 and parking information for identifying the vehicle is obtained accordingly; if the parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image captured by the first lens 31, the obscured second lens 32 is opened to recapture the vehicle image and obtain the parking information; after the image is captured by the second lens 32, the second lens 32 is obscured again and a first alarm message is issued to remind that the first lens 31 is not working properly.

[0039] Specifically, after capturing vehicle images through the first lens 31, the system identifies whether the vehicle image includes a license plate. If the license plate is included, the license plate number is extracted as parking information. If the license plate is not included, it is determined that parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image captured by the first lens 31.

[0040] Furthermore, after capturing vehicle images through the second lens 32, the system identifies whether the vehicle image includes a license plate. If a license plate is included, the license plate number is extracted as parking information. If a license plate is not included, a second alarm message is issued to indicate that the parking information acquisition failed.

[0041] Specifically, when a vehicle is confirmed to be parked in parking space 120 via sensors or a camera, the normally open first lens 31 is used as a camera lens to capture an image of the vehicle. Based on this image, an image recognition program determines whether the vehicle image includes a license plate. Here, the first lens 31 is a conventional camera lens, and like typical vehicle imaging equipment, it is always open. This means that the first lens 31 may become damaged and unusable after prolonged use. However, under normal circumstances, when the first lens 31 is not damaged, it can be used as a camera lens to capture vehicle images.

[0042] To determine whether the first lens 31 is damaged, the image acquisition process can be triggered each time a vehicle parks in parking space 120, using the captured vehicle image. There are three scenarios: First, if no image is acquired when a shooting command is issued to the first lens 31, the first lens 31 is considered damaged. Second, if the first lens 31 can capture the vehicle image, but image recognition fails to identify the license plate, the first lens 31 is considered damaged. Third, if the first lens 31 can capture the vehicle image, and image recognition identifies the license plate, the first lens 31 is considered functional.

[0043] Among them, capturing vehicle images with license plates through camera lenses is a conventional technique, and sensors or other mechanisms can be used to ensure that the images captured by the camera lenses include license plates; at the same time, identifying the presence of license plates and extracting license plate information through image recognition programs are also conventional technical means.

[0044] When the first and second scenarios exist, the obscured second lens 32 is opened to re-acquire vehicle images and obtain parking information. Here, the second lens 32 refers to the camera lens that is normally obscured. The component obscuring the second lens 32 can be a lens cap 40, which can be driven to switch between obscuring and opening the second lens 32. Because the second lens 32 is normally obscured, it is not affected by external factors and will not become dirty or damaged. When the first lens 31 cannot be used normally, the second lens 32 can be opened to acquire vehicle images.

[0045] Furthermore, after acquiring vehicle images through the second lens 32, the second lens 32 is covered again with the lens cap 40, ensuring that the second lens 32 is covered when not in use, thus preventing external interference. Simultaneously, a first alarm message is issued to alert staff that the first lens 31 is malfunctioning, allowing them to proceed with maintenance.

[0046] It should be noted that, compared to the configuration of setting a lens cap 40 on a single lens, the method provided in this embodiment has two lenses, one of which is normally open, and the other is normally closed by being covered. If only one lens is set and a lens cap 40 that can be covered and opened is set on that lens, the lens needs to be opened to take pictures when a vehicle parks in the parking space 120, and the lens needs to be covered again after the vehicle image is collected. This configuration will cause the lens cap 40 to be frequently driven. For the shooting equipment set on the roadside, it is usually battery powered, and driving the lens cap 40 will consume a lot of power, resulting in a shortened battery life of the shooting equipment and the need for frequent battery replacements. However, if the solution provided in this embodiment is adopted, under normal circumstances, only the first lens 31 is used for shooting. The second lens 32 is only opened when the first lens 31 is dirty and cannot be used normally. At this time, the second lens 32 is used as an emergency lens. Afterwards, a first alarm message will be sent to remind staff to maintain the first lens 31, and then the first lens 31 can be used to continue to collect vehicle images. Therefore, in the solution provided in this embodiment, the lens cover 40 will not be frequently driven, thus avoiding the consumption of battery power, effectively ensuring battery life while ensuring normal acquisition of vehicle images.

[0047] In addition, since the vehicle's location may be unpredictable, the second camera 32 may not be able to capture an image of the vehicle, including the license plate. In this case, a second alarm message can be issued to remind that the parking information has failed to be obtained. After that, staff can go to the site to charge the parking fee.

[0048] In the parking information collection method provided by this invention, under normal circumstances, the first lens 31, which is normally open, is used to collect vehicle images. "Normal circumstances" here refers to the situation where the first lens 31 is available. At this time, parking information can be obtained from the vehicle images collected by the first lens 31. This parking information can be used to identify vehicles parked in parking space 120, facilitating billing management of vehicles parked in parking space 120. When it is determined from the vehicle images that parking information cannot be obtained, the previously obscured second lens 32 can be opened, and vehicle images can be re-collected through the second lens 32 to obtain parking information. Since the second lens 32 is normally obscured, it is protected by the obstruction and will not suffer damage, dirt, or other abnormal conditions. When the first lens 31 cannot be used normally to collect vehicle images, the available second lens can be used... The first lens 32 is used to collect vehicle images. After the second lens 32 has collected the vehicle image, it is immediately obscured by an object, returning it to the protection of the obscuration. Simultaneously, while the second lens 32 is being obscured again, a first alarm message is issued to alert the first lens 31 that it is not functioning properly. At this point, relevant personnel can proceed to the site for equipment maintenance. If personnel cannot arrive immediately, the next time a vehicle parks in parking space 120 where the first lens 31 is not functioning properly, the provided method can still be used to activate the second lens 32 to collect vehicle images after confirming that the first lens 31 is not working properly. This method ensures that vehicle images can be collected normally under any circumstances, and parking information can be obtained accordingly, thus guaranteeing the normal billing management of vehicles parked in parking space 120.

[0049] Example 2

[0050] Embodiment 2 of the present invention provides an image acquisition device 100, referring to... Figure 2 The image acquisition device 100 can be installed on the shoulder 110, and a parking space 120 is provided on one side of the shoulder 110. The image acquisition device 100 has a sensing direction and a shooting direction. Both the sensing direction and the shooting direction are tilted towards the parking space 120. The shooting direction is used to ensure that the image acquisition device 100 can capture images of vehicles including license plates, and the sensing direction is used to ensure that the vehicle can be sensed when it parks in the parking space 120.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 The image acquisition device 100 includes a main body 10, a first lens 31, a second lens 32, and a lens cap 40; the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 are fixedly mounted on the main body 10 and are used to acquire images; see reference. Figure 4 The lens cap 40 is mounted on the body 10 and is configured to switch between covering and opening the second lens 32.

[0052] In addition, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The image acquisition device 100 further includes an image sensor 35 and an optical path switcher; the image sensor 35 is adapted to receive images from the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 to achieve image acquisition; the optical path switcher uses the reflection or refraction of light to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor 35 so that when the lens cover 40 covers the second lens 32, the image sensor 35 receives images from the first lens 31, and when the lens cover 40 opens the second lens 32, the image sensor 35 receives images from the second lens 32.

[0053] In addition, the image acquisition device 100 also includes a sensor for determining whether a vehicle is parked in parking space 120. In this embodiment, the sensor is a distance sensor 20, such as a photoelectric distance sensor 20, a microwave distance sensor 20, etc.

[0054] Specifically, refer to Figure 3 The image acquisition device 100 has a rectangular parallelepiped body 10 with a hollow interior forming a mounting cavity for installing other components. A recess 11 is formed at one end of the recess, within which the first lens 31, the second lens 32, and the distance sensor 20 are all mounted. The periphery of the recess 11 is divided into a first periphery 111 located on the upper surface of the body 10, a second periphery 112 located on the right side of the front end of the body 10, a third periphery 113 located on the left side of the front end of the body 10, and a fourth periphery 13 located outside the third periphery 113 and on the left side surface of the body 10. The first periphery 111, second periphery 112, and third periphery 113 are connected end-to-end, with the first lens 31, the second lens 32, and the lens cap 40 located within them. The third periphery 113 and fourth periphery 13 are connected end-to-end, with the distance sensor 20 located within both. A mounting hole 12 is also provided in the recess 11 for fixing the image acquisition device 100 to the road shoulder 110 using bolts or similar means. The recess 11 can protect the first lens 31, the second lens 32, the lens cap 40 and the distance sensor 20 under the protection of the main body 10. When a wheel runs over the image acquisition device 100, the surface of the wheel will be blocked by the periphery of the recess 11, thereby preventing the wheel from touching the first lens 31, the second lens 32, the lens cap 40 and the distance sensor 20 inside the recess 11.

[0055] A mounting surface 15 is formed on the lower surface of the body 10. When the image acquisition device 100 is installed on the shoulder 110, the mounting surface 15 abuts against the surface of the shoulder 110 to keep the image acquisition device 100 stable.

[0056] Reference Figure 3The lens cap 40 is a cover plate that is slidably mounted on the body 10 along a first direction. The drive assembly is installed inside the body 10 and connected to the lens cap 40. To enable the lens cap 40 to be driven by the drive assembly, a clearance hole 14 is provided on the body 10, through which a portion of the structure on the lens cap 40 can pass to connect with the drive assembly. (See reference...) Figure 4 The driving component includes a drive motor 51 and a transmission component 52. In this embodiment, the output end of the drive motor 51 is an output gear 511, and the transmission component 52 is a rack. The output gear 511 meshes with the rack. When the drive motor 51 rotates, it can drive the rack to move along the first direction. The rack is connected to the lens cover 40, thereby driving the lens cover 40 to reciprocate in the first direction, so that the lens cover 40 can switch between the two states of covering and opening the second lens 32.

[0057] Of course, in other embodiments, the lens cap 40 may adopt other structures. For example, the lens cap 40 may be a shutter mechanism, which, through a structure similar to a shutter curtain, opens the curtain when the second lens 32 is needed and closes the curtain when it is not needed. It should be noted that such a shutter mechanism is a conventional technical means and will not be described in detail here.

[0058] In addition, in other embodiments, other transmission methods can be used to switch the state of the lens cover 40. For example, the lens cover 40 can be rotatably connected to the body 10, and the driving component can be a cylinder or an electric cylinder. The driving component and the lens cover 40 are connected by a linkage mechanism, so that the lens cover 40 can switch its position relative to the body 10 by rotation, thereby realizing the state switching of covering or opening the second lens 32.

[0059] It should be noted that the mechanism by which the lens cap 40 opens or covers the second lens 32 can be implemented by those skilled in the art in an appropriate manner according to the actual situation, and the methods provided above do not limit the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

[0060] The image acquisition device 100 also includes an image sensor 35 and an optical path switcher. In particular, there is only one image sensor 35, meaning that both the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 generate image information through the image sensor 35.

[0061] However, based on the working principle of the image sensor 35, the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 also need to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor 35 through an optical path switcher, so that the image sensor 35 can receive images from the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 respectively.

[0062] As one implementation method, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6The first lens 31 and the second lens 32 are arranged along the first direction and their shooting directions are parallel; the optical path switcher includes a reflector 33, which is adapted to reciprocate along the first direction between a first position corresponding to the first lens 31 and a second position corresponding to the second lens 32, and when it is in the first position, it causes the image sensor 35 to receive the image from the first lens 31 through reflection, and when it is in the second position, it causes the image sensor 35 to receive the image from the second lens 32 through reflection.

[0063] Specifically, the reflector 33 is a reflective mirror that reflects light. This mirror is connected to the lens cap 40 via a connector 36. When the lens cap 40 moves via the drive assembly, it moves the reflector. Simultaneously, an auxiliary reflector 34 is provided. This auxiliary reflector 34 is used to adjust the light receiving path of the image sensor 35, and it is fixedly installed within the main body 10. However, the auxiliary reflector 34 is not essential; the image sensor 35 can be directly positioned on the path of the reflected light from the reflector 33.

[0064] Reference Figure 5 When using the first lens 31 to acquire vehicle images, the reflector 33 is positioned corresponding to the first lens 31. The incident light from the first lens 31 is reflected by the reflector 33 and then reaches the image sensor 35 via the auxiliary reflector 34. (Refer to...) Figure 6 When using the second lens 32 to acquire vehicle images, the reflector 33 is located at the position corresponding to the second lens 32. The incident light from the second lens 32 is reflected by the reflector 33 and then reaches the image sensor 35 through the auxiliary reflector 34.

[0065] During this process, the movement of the lens cover 40 is synchronized with the movement of the reflector 33, which not only simplifies the internal drive structure, but also ensures that when the lens cover 40 opens the second lens 32, the reflector 33 also reaches the position corresponding to the second lens 32.

[0066] In another implementation, the extension lines of the shooting directions of the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 intersect; the optical path switcher includes a refractive element adapted to rotate relative to the body 10 and switch between a third position and a fourth position. When it is in the first position, the image sensor 35 receives the image from the first lens 31 through refraction, and when it is in the second position, the image sensor 35 receives the image from the second lens 32 through refraction.

[0067] Specifically, the refractive element can be a lens, either a convex or concave lens. Under the action of the lens, the direction of the incident light rays of the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 can be changed, and the incident light rays can be directed towards the image sensor 35. The refractive element is rotatably mounted inside the body 10, and by rotating, the incident surface of the refractive element is directed towards the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 respectively.

[0068] In the image acquisition device 100 provided by the present invention, a lens cap 40 is used to cover and open the second lens 32, which can be used to implement the above-mentioned parking information acquisition method. On this basis, an optical path switcher can also be used to enable an image sensor 35 to receive images from the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 respectively. The optical path switcher uses the reflection or refraction of light to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor 35. With the optical path switcher and the lens cap 40, two different lenses can be used to take pictures with a single image sensor 35, reducing the cost of setting up a complete camera module. Furthermore, the optical path switcher can be linked with the lens cap 40. When the lens cap 40 covers or opens the second lens 32, the optical path switcher is driven to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor 35. This can avoid the situation where the positions of the lens cap 40 and the optical path switcher are mismatched, thereby avoiding the situation where the image sensor 35 cannot accurately determine whether it is receiving the image of the first lens 31 or the image of the second lens 32. At the same time, it also makes the structure of the image acquisition device 100 more compact and more conducive to miniaturization.

[0069] Example 3

[0070] Embodiment 3 of the present invention provides a control method for an image acquisition device 100, which is used to acquire parking information through the image acquisition device 100 provided in Embodiment 2. The method includes the following steps: when a vehicle is parked in a parking space 120, the image sensor 35 is controlled to acquire a vehicle image through a first lens 31; when the vehicle image acquired through the first lens 31 cannot acquire parking information, the lens cover 40 is controlled to open the second lens 32 and the optical path switcher is used to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor 35, and then the image sensor 35 is controlled to acquire a vehicle image through the second lens 32; after the vehicle image is acquired through the second lens 32, the lens cover 40 is controlled to cover the second lens 32 and the optical path switcher is reset.

[0071] Specifically, the implementation process of this control method can be found in Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0072] When the distance sensor 20 determines that the vehicle has entered the parking space 120, the optical path switcher corresponds to the first lens 31, and the image sensor 35 can generate image information based on the image received at this time to realize the acquisition of vehicle image.

[0073] Example 4

[0074] Embodiment 4 of the present invention provides a parking information acquisition system, which includes an image processing module and an image acquisition device 100 as described in Embodiment 2. The image processing module is used to obtain parking information for identifying the vehicle based on the acquired vehicle image, and when parking information cannot be obtained, it sends a first instruction to the image acquisition device 100 based on the first marking information attached to the vehicle image. The image acquisition device 100 is configured to acquire a vehicle image through a first lens 31 and an image sensor 35 and send it to the image processing module when the vehicle is parked in the parking space 120. The image acquisition device 100 is also configured to, upon receiving the first instruction, open the lens cover 40 and drive the optical path switcher to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor 35, and then acquire a vehicle image through a second lens 32 and an image sensor 35 and send it to the image processing module. The first marking information is used to mark that the vehicle image was acquired through the first lens 31.

[0075] In addition, the parking information collection system also includes an alarm module; the image processing module sends a second instruction to the alarm module at the same time as sending the first instruction; after receiving the second instruction, the alarm module reminds the first camera 31 that it is not working properly.

[0076] Specifically, the parking information collection system can be referred to in Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0077] The system includes a cloud server, with the image processing module built into it as a program. The cloud server has computing power and communicates with the image acquisition device 100 via wired or wireless means. After acquiring a vehicle image, the image acquisition device 100 transmits it to the cloud server. The cloud server's built-in image processing module processes the vehicle image, identifying whether it includes a license plate. When a license plate is detected, parking information can be obtained.

[0078] It should be noted that the vehicle image captured by the first lens 31 contains first marker information. The image processing module can determine that the vehicle image was captured by the first lens 31 based on the first marker information. When parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image captured by the first lens 31, the image processing module can send a first instruction to the image acquisition device 100. The image acquisition device 100 controls the lens cover 40 and the optical path switcher according to the first instruction to switch to capturing the vehicle image through the second lens 32.

[0079] At the same time, when the image processing module sends the first instruction, it also sends a second instruction to the alarm module. After receiving the second instruction, the alarm module issues a reminder to indicate that the first lens 31 cannot be used normally.

[0080] In addition, the vehicle image captured by the second lens 32 is accompanied by a second marking information. The image processing module can determine that the vehicle image was captured by the second lens 32 based on the second marking information. When parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image captured by the second lens 32, the image processing module can send a second instruction to the alarm module, and the alarm module will remind that the parking information acquisition has failed.

[0081] The alarm module can also be a program built into a cloud server, and staff can receive alerts from the alarm module through an operation panel that communicates with the cloud server.

[0082] The foregoing description of the specifications and embodiments is intended to explain the scope of protection of this invention, but does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Modifications, equivalent substitutions, or other improvements to the embodiments of this invention or a portion thereof that can be obtained by those skilled in the art through logical analysis, reasoning, or limited experimentation, based on the teachings of this invention or the foregoing embodiments, in conjunction with common knowledge, general technical knowledge, and / or existing technology, should all be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. An image capturing device (100), characterized in that, It includes the main body (10), the first lens (31), the second lens (32) and the lens cap (40); The first lens (31) and the second lens (32) are fixedly installed on the main body (10) and used to acquire images; The lens cap (40) is mounted on the body (10) and is configured to switch between covering and opening the second lens (32); It also includes an image sensor (35) and an optical path switcher; The image sensor (35) is adapted to receive images from the first lens (31) and the second lens (32) to achieve image acquisition; The optical path switcher uses the reflection or refraction of light to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor (35), so that when the lens cover (40) covers the second lens (32), the image sensor (35) receives the image from the first lens (31), and when the lens cover (40) opens the second lens (32), the image sensor (35) receives the image from the second lens (32). The first lens (31) and the second lens (32) are arranged along a first direction and their shooting directions are parallel; the optical path switcher includes a reflector (33), which is adapted to reciprocate along the first direction between a first position corresponding to the first lens (31) and a second position corresponding to the second lens (32), and when it is in the first position, it causes the image sensor (35) to receive the image from the first lens (31) through reflection, and when it is in the second position, it causes the image sensor (35) to receive the image from the second lens (32) through reflection; The extended lines of the shooting directions of the first lens (31) and the second lens (32) intersect; the optical path switcher includes a refractive element adapted to rotate relative to the body (10) and switch between a third position and a fourth position, wherein when it is in the first position, the image sensor (35) receives an image from the first lens (31) by refraction, and when it is in the second position, the image sensor (35) receives an image from the second lens (32) by refraction.

2. A method of controlling an image acquisition device (100) for acquiring parking information by an image acquisition device (100) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that include: When the vehicle is parked in the parking space (120), the image sensor (35) is controlled to acquire the vehicle image through the first lens (31); When parking information cannot be obtained from the vehicle image captured by the first lens (31), the lens cover (40) is controlled to open the second lens (32) and the optical path switcher is made to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor (35), and then the image sensor (35) is controlled to capture the vehicle image through the second lens (32). After the vehicle image is acquired through the second lens (32), the lens cover (40) is controlled to cover the second lens (32) and the optical path switcher is reset.

3. A parking information collection system characterized by comprising: Includes an image processing module and an image acquisition device (100) as described in claim 1; The image processing module is used to obtain parking information for identifying the vehicle based on the acquired vehicle image, and when parking information cannot be obtained, it sends a first instruction to the image acquisition device (100) based on the first marking information attached to the vehicle image. The image acquisition device (100) is configured to acquire vehicle images through the first lens (31) and image sensor (35) and send them to the image processing module when the vehicle is parked in the parking space (120); the image acquisition device (100) is also configured to open the lens cover (40) and drive the optical path switcher to change the receiving optical path of the image sensor (35) when the first instruction is received, and then acquire vehicle images through the second lens (32) and image sensor (35) and send them to the image processing module. The first marking information is used to mark that the vehicle image was acquired through the first lens (31).

4. A parking information collection system according to claim 3, wherein the parking information collection system is characterized by It also includes an alarm module; while sending the first instruction, the image processing module sends a second instruction to the alarm module; after receiving the second instruction, the alarm module reminds the first lens (31) that it cannot be used normally.

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