Image selection module applied to vehicle panoramic system

Abstract

The embodiment of the present specification provides an image selection module applied to a vehicle panoramic system, comprising a main body, an image selection unit, a brush member, a light transmission plate and a driving assembly. The image selection unit is arranged on the main body. The brush member is arranged on the main body. The light transmission plate is movably arranged on the main body along an axis and has a surface, the surface contacts the brush member, and the normal of the surface is substantially perpendicular to the axis. The driving assembly is arranged on the main body and is used to drive the light transmission plate to move back and forth along the axis. The embodiment of the present specification can clean the lens surface in time to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an optical module, and more particularly to an image selection module for use in automotive surround view systems. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of automotive technology, more and more new models are equipped with functions that rely on image sensing technology, such as autonomous driving systems. One crucial technology is the 360-degree surround view system, which aims to improve driving safety and convenience by providing the driver with a complete view of their surroundings. This 360-degree surround view system requires multiple onboard cameras positioned around the vehicle. Image data from each camera is transmitted in real-time to the vehicle's computer, which uses algorithms to process and synthesize the image data from each camera to generate a 360-degree surround view displayed on a screen in the cockpit, allowing the driver to clearly understand the environment around the vehicle.

[0003] However, during driving, in-vehicle cameras exposed to the vehicle's surroundings are frequently affected by environmental factors such as raindrops, mud, dust, or snow, causing the lens surface to become blurry and damaged. This not only weakens the lens's visual effect and affects image clarity but also seriously impacts the accuracy of driver assistance systems, ultimately threatening driving safety and potentially endangering the lives of drivers or pedestrians. For example, the panoramic view displayed by a 360-degree surround view system may look like... Figure 16 The image shown is obscured by raindrops, mud, dust, and other contaminants. Therefore, maintaining the cleanliness of in-vehicle lenses while driving is an important current issue. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an image selection module for use in automotive surround view systems, which can instantly clean the lens surface to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module.

[0005] The image selection module of the present invention includes a main body, an image selection unit, a brush member, a light-transmitting plate, and a driving assembly. The image selection unit is disposed on the main body. The brush member is disposed on the main body. The light-transmitting plate is movably disposed on the main body along an axis and has a surface that contacts the brush member, the normal of the surface being substantially orthogonal to the axis. The driving assembly is disposed on the main body and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to reciprocate along the axis.

[0006] In one embodiment of the present invention, the main body includes a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket is mounted on the first bracket, the brush component is disposed on the first bracket, the image selection unit and the driving component are disposed on the second bracket, and the light-transmitting plate is movably disposed between the first bracket and the second bracket along the axis.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the driving component includes a motor and a drive wheel. The motor is coupled to the drive wheel, and the drive wheel is rotatably disposed on the main body and in contact with the light-transmitting plate. The motor is used to drive the drive wheel to rotate so as to move the light-transmitting plate along the axis.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned driving component further includes a passive wheel, which is rotatably disposed on the main body and in contact with the light-transmitting plate.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module further includes a control unit, wherein the control unit is coupled to the driving component, and the control unit is used to control the driving component to drive the light-transmitting plate to operate along a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is used to generate a control signal based on the light-transmitting plate operating along a first direction for a predetermined time length, and the driving component is used to control the light-transmitting plate to operate along a second direction according to the control signal.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module further includes a sensor, wherein the sensor is coupled to the control unit, the sensor is used to sense that the light-transmitting plate moves to a predetermined state along a first direction and generates a sensing signal, the control unit is used to generate a control signal based on the sensing signal, and the driving component is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to move along a second direction based on the control signal.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module further includes a recording unit, wherein the recording unit is coupled to the driving component and the control unit, the recording unit is used to record an accumulated number of driving cycles of the driving component, and the control unit is used to generate a reminder signal based on the accumulated number of driving cycles reaching a predetermined value.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is configured to generate a start signal based on an image selection quality of the image selection unit being lower than a predetermined quality, the driving component is configured to drive the light-transmitting plate according to the start signal, and the control unit is configured to generate a stop signal based on an image selection quality of the image selection unit being higher than the predetermined quality, the driving component is configured to stop driving the light-transmitting plate according to the stop signal.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module described above is a panoramic camera for vehicle.

[0015] The image selection module of the present invention includes a main body, an image selection unit, a brush component, a frame, a light-transmitting plate, a first driving assembly, and a second driving assembly. The image selection unit is disposed on the main body. The brush component is disposed on the main body. The frame is movably disposed on the main body along one axis. The light-transmitting plate is movably disposed on the frame along another axis and contacts the brush component. The first driving assembly is disposed on the main body and is used to drive the frame to move along the axis. The second driving assembly is disposed on the frame and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to move along the other axis.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the main body includes a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket is mounted on the first bracket, the brush component and the first driving component are disposed on the first bracket, and the image selection unit is disposed on the second bracket.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the frame includes a third support and a fourth support. The third support is movably disposed on the first support along an axis, the fourth support is mounted on the third support, the light-transmitting plate is movably disposed between the third support and the fourth support along another axis, and the second drive assembly is disposed on the third support.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module further includes another brush component, which is disposed on the third bracket and contacts the light-transmitting plate.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first drive assembly includes a motor and a drive worm gear. The motor is coupled to the drive worm gear, which is rotatably disposed on the main body and in contact with the frame. The motor is used to drive the drive worm gear to rotate so as to move the frame along the axis.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first drive assembly further includes a passive worm gear, which is rotatably disposed on the main body and in contact with the frame.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second driving component includes a motor and a drive wheel. The motor is coupled to the drive wheel, which is rotatably disposed on the frame and in contact with the light-transmitting plate. The motor is used to drive the drive wheel to rotate so as to move the light-transmitting plate along another axis.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second drive assembly further includes a passive wheel, which is rotatably disposed on the frame and in contact with the light-transmitting plate.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module described above is a panoramic camera for vehicle.

[0024] The image selection module of the present invention includes a main body, an image selection unit, a brush member, a light-transmitting plate, and a driving assembly. The image selection unit is disposed on the main body. The brush member is disposed on the main body. The light-transmitting plate is rotatably disposed on the main body along an axis and contacts the brush member. The driving assembly is disposed on the main body and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to rotate along the axis.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, the main body includes a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket is mounted on the first bracket, the brush component is disposed on the first bracket, the image selection unit and the driving component are disposed on the second bracket, and the light-transmitting plate is rotatably disposed between the first bracket and the second bracket along the axis.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned driving component includes a motor and a bevel gear set, the bevel gear set being coupled between the motor and the light-transmitting plate, and the motor being used to drive the bevel gear set to rotate so as to drive the light-transmitting plate to rotate along the axis.

[0027] In one embodiment of the present invention, the image selection module described above is a panoramic camera for vehicle.

[0028] Based on the above, in the image selection module of the present invention, the light-transmitting plate, which serves as the lens surface, is configured to be driven by a drive component to move along an axis, and the image selection module is provided with a brush member that contacts the light-transmitting plate. Accordingly, as the light-transmitting plate moves along the axis, dirt on the surface of the light-transmitting plate is scraped off by the brush member, thereby achieving the effect of instantly cleaning the lens surface to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module. Furthermore, since the image selection module of the present invention is configured such that the light-transmitting plate is movable while the brush member is stationary, the brush member will not move and obstruct the view of the image selection unit during the cleaning process, allowing the image selection module to continuously perform image selection. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 An image selection module according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown mounted on the windshield of a vehicle.

[0030] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial rear view of the windshield and image selection module.

[0031] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the windshield and image selection module.

[0032] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of the windshield and image selection module.

[0033] Figure 5 Draw Figure 2 The light-transmitting panel is activated.

[0034] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of some components of the image selection module.

[0035] Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The flowchart shows the operation of the image selection module.

[0036] Figure 9 The illustration depicts an image selection module of another embodiment of the present invention mounted on the rear shell of a vehicle.

[0037] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An exploded view of the rear body and image selection module.

[0038] Figure 11 and Figure 12 Draw Figure 9 The light-transmitting panel is activated.

[0039] Figure 13 Draw Figure 9 The image selection module selects some components.

[0040] Figure 14 The illustration depicts an image selection module of another embodiment of the present invention mounted on the rear shell of a vehicle.

[0041] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 An exploded view of the rear body and image selection module.

[0042] Figure 16 The illustration shows that the panoramic view displayed by a 360-degree panoramic view system in the prior art is affected by stains.

[0043] Explanation of symbols in the attached drawings:

[0044] 100, 200, 300: Image selection module;

[0045] 110, 210A, 310: Main body;

[0046] 112, 212A, 312: First support;

[0047] 112a, 114a, 212a, 212b, 212c, 312a, 314a, 62: Openings; 114, 214A, 314: Second supports;

[0048] 120, 220, 320: Image selection unit;

[0049] 122, 222, 322: substrate;

[0050] 124, 324: Image selection device;

[0051] 130, 230, 230', 330: Brush components;

[0052] 130a, 230a, 330a: Openings;

[0053] 132, 232, 332: Contact part;

[0054] 140, 240, 340: Light-transmitting panels;

[0055] 150, 350: Driver components;

[0056] 152, 252A, 252B, 352: Motors;

[0057] 154, 254B: Drive wheel;

[0058] 156, 256B: Passive gears;

[0059] 160: Control unit;

[0060] 170: Sensor;

[0061] 180: Recording unit;

[0062] 210B: Frame;

[0063] 212B: Third support;

[0064] 214B: Fourth support;

[0065] 250A: First drive component;

[0066] 250B: Second drive component;

[0067] 254A: Driving worm gear;

[0068] 256A: Passive worm gear;

[0069] 354: Bevel gear set;

[0070] 356: Clamping component;

[0071] 50: Front windshield;

[0072] 52: Outer frame;

[0073] 60: Rear body shell;

[0074] A1, A2, A3, A4: Axis lines;

[0075] B: Stain;

[0076] D1: First direction;

[0077] D2: Second direction;

[0078] L1, L2: Signal lines;

[0079] N: Normal direction;

[0080] OA: Optical axis;

[0081] S: Surface;

[0082] W1, W2: Width. Detailed Implementation

[0083] Figure 1 An image selection module according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown mounted on the windshield of a vehicle. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial rear view of the windshield and image selection module. Please refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the image selection module 100 is mounted, for example, on the upper edge of the windshield 50 of a vehicle, to select an image in front of the vehicle. The image selection module 100 is, for example, a panoramic camera for vehicle.

[0084] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the windshield and image selection module. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of the windshield and image selection module, wherein the cross-section corresponds to Figure 2 Line II. Figure 5 Draw Figure 2 The light-transmitting panel operates. Please refer to [the documentation / reference]. Figures 2 to 4 The image selection module 100 includes a main body 110, an image selection unit 120, a brush member 130, a light-transmitting plate 140, and a driving assembly 150. The image selection unit 120 is disposed on the main body 110. The brush member 130 is, for example, a rubber component and is disposed on the main body 110. The light-transmitting plate 140 is, for example, a glass plate, which is movably disposed on the main body 110 along an axis A1 and has a surface S (marked as...). Figure 4 ), surface S contacts brush component 130, surface S normal N (indicated in Figure 4 In fact, it is orthogonal to axis A1 (marked on) Figure 2 and Figure 5 The drive assembly 150 is disposed on the main body 110 and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate 140 from... Figure 2 The state shown moves along axis A1 to... Figure 5 The state shown.

[0085] As described above, in the image selection module 100 of this embodiment, the light-transmitting plate 140, which serves as the lens surface, is configured to be driven by the driving component 150 to move along the axis A1, and the image selection module 100 is provided with a brush member 130 that orthogonally contacts the surface S of the light-transmitting plate 140. Accordingly, as the light-transmitting plate 140 moves along the axis A1, the brush member 130 continuously contacts the light-transmitting plate 140 during the movement of the light-transmitting plate 140 and generates relative displacement with the light-transmitting plate 140, so that dirt on the surface of the light-transmitting plate 140 is scraped off by the brush member 130, thereby achieving the effect of instantly cleaning the lens surface to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module 100. Furthermore, since the image selection module 100 of this embodiment is configured such that the light-transmitting plate 140 is movable while the brush member 130 is stationary, the brush member will not move and obstruct the view of the image selection unit during the cleaning process, allowing the image selection module 100 to continuously perform image selection.

[0086] In detail, the main body 110 of this embodiment includes a first bracket 112 and a second bracket 114. The first bracket 112 is integrally connected to the outer frame 52 of the windshield 50, for example. The second bracket 114 is mounted on the first bracket 112 and has an opening 114a (marked in...). Figure 4 A brush component 130 is disposed on the first support 112. An image selection unit 120 includes a substrate 122 and an image selection device 124. The substrate 122 is disposed on the second support 114, and the image selection device 124 is disposed on the substrate 122 and corresponds to the opening 114a. A drive assembly 150 is disposed on the second support 114. A light-transmitting plate 140 is movably disposed between the first support 112 and the second support 114 along axis A1. Axis A1 is perpendicular to an optical axis OA of the image selection device 124 (indicated by...). Figure 2 and Figure 4 ).

[0087] The light-transmitting plate 140 and the brush component 130 are located on opposite sides of the first bracket 112. The first bracket 112 has an opening 112a (marked in...). Figure 4 The opening 112a corresponds to a portion of the image selection device 124 and the light-transmitting plate 140. The brush member 130 has a contact portion 132 that passes through the opening 112a and contacts the light-transmitting plate 140. The brush member 130 has an opening 130a (marked in...). Figure 4 The opening 130a corresponds to a portion of the image selection device 124 and the light-transmitting plate 140. External light can reach the image selection device 124 through the opening 130a and the light-transmitting plate 140, and dirt scraped off by the brush member 130 can be discharged through the opening 130a.

[0088] In this embodiment, the width W1 of the light-transmitting plate 140 along axis A1 (indicated by...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The width W2 of the contact portion 132 along axis A1 is greater than the width of the contact portion 132 (indicated by...). Figure 3 Twice that of the light-transmitting plate. Accordingly, it is ensured that the brush component 130 can clean the light-transmitting plate 140 over a wide range as the light-transmitting plate 140 moves along axis A1, so that dirt on the light-transmitting plate 140 is scraped off as much as possible.

[0089] In this embodiment, the drive assembly 150 includes a motor 152 and a drive wheel 154. The motor 152 is coupled to the drive wheel 154, for example, via a bevel gear or other suitable means. The drive wheel 154 is rotatably mounted on the second bracket 114 and contacts the light-transmitting plate 140. The motor 152 drives the drive wheel 154 to rotate, causing the drive wheel 154 to move the light-transmitting plate 140 along axis A1 by means of friction between the drive wheel 154 and the light-transmitting plate 140. The drive assembly 150 further includes two driven wheels 156, which are rotatably mounted on the second bracket 114 and contact the light-transmitting plate 140. As the light-transmitting plate 140 moves along axis A1, the driven wheel 156 rotates due to the friction between itself and the light-transmitting plate 140. The driving wheel 154 and the driven wheel 156 together press the light-transmitting plate 140 firmly against the brush member 130, ensuring stable movement of the light-transmitting plate 140 and preventing it from shaking or loosening during vehicle operation. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the friction between the driving wheel 154 and the light-transmitting plate 140, and the friction between the driven wheel 156 and the light-transmitting plate 140, is, for example, greater than the friction between the brush member 130 and the light-transmitting plate 140, allowing the light-transmitting plate 140 to be smoothly driven by the drive assembly 150 and move relative to the brush member 130.

[0090] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The image selection module includes a block diagram of some components. Please refer to... Figure 6 The image selection module 100 in this embodiment further includes a control unit 160. The control unit 160 is, for example, a microcontroller unit (MCU), which is disposed on the substrate 122 and coupled to the driving assembly 150. After receiving an activation command from the user interface, the control unit 160 generates a start signal based on an image selection quality of the image selection unit 120 being lower than a predetermined quality. The driving assembly 150 drives the light-transmitting plate 140 according to this start signal. The control unit 160 also generates a stop signal based on an image selection quality of the image selection unit 120 being higher than the predetermined quality. The driving assembly 150 stops driving the light-transmitting plate 140 according to this stop signal. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether to clean the light-transmitting plate 140 using the brush member 130 based on the image selection quality of the image selection unit 120.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 160 can, for example, control the drive assembly 150 to drive the light-transmitting plate 140 at various speeds to meet various cleaning needs. Also, the control unit 160 can control the drive assembly 150 to drive the light-transmitting plate 140 along a first direction D1 (indicated by...) parallel to axis A1. Figure 2 ) and a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1 (indicated in Figure 2 The control unit 160 can control the drive assembly 150 to drive the light-transmitting plate 140 to reciprocate along axis A1.

[0092] Furthermore, the control unit 160 can generate a control signal based on the light-transmitting plate 140 operating along the first direction D1 for a predetermined time, and the drive component 150 controls the light-transmitting plate 140 to operate along the second direction D2 according to this control signal. Similarly, the control unit 160 can generate a control signal based on the light-transmitting plate 140 operating along the second direction D2 for a predetermined time, and the drive component 150 controls the light-transmitting plate 140 to operate along the first direction D1 according to this control signal. Accordingly, by setting an appropriate predetermined time value for the control unit 160 and driving the light-transmitting plate 140 at an appropriate speed, the light-transmitting plate 140 can be made to reciprocate stably.

[0093] Alternatively, image selection module 100 can be used as follows: Figure 6 The diagram further includes a sensor 170. Sensor 170 is coupled to control unit 160. Sensor 170 senses when the light-transmitting plate 140 moves along a first direction D1 to a predetermined state (e.g., the light-transmitting plate 140 moves to an extreme position) and generates a sensing signal. Control unit 160 generates a control signal based on this sensing signal, and drive assembly 150 drives the light-transmitting plate 140 to move along a second direction D2 based on this control signal. Similarly, sensor 170 senses when the light-transmitting plate 140 moves along the second direction D2 to a predetermined state (e.g., the light-transmitting plate 140 moves to another extreme position) and generates a sensing signal. Control unit 160 generates a control signal based on this sensing signal, and drive assembly 150 drives the light-transmitting plate 140 to move along the first direction D1 based on this control signal. This allows the light-transmitting plate 140 to reciprocate stably. The sensor 170 may be a contact sensor, an optical sensor, or other suitable type of sensor capable of sensing that the light-transmitting plate 140 has reached a predetermined position, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image selection module 100 can be as follows: Figure 6The diagram further includes a recording unit 180. The recording unit 180 is, for example, non-volatile memory (NVM) and coupled to the drive assembly 150 and the control unit 160. The recording unit 180 records a cumulative number of drives of the drive assembly 150. The control unit 160 reads and checks the cumulative number of drives each time the device is powered on, and generates a reminder signal based on the cumulative number of drives reaching a predetermined value. This reminder signal can be displayed on the user interface to remind the user to replace the brush assembly 130. The cumulative number of drives can be the product of the motor 152's rotational speed and the drive time; the present invention is not limited to this. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the brush component 130 is mounted on the outside of the first bracket 112 and partially protrudes into the light-transmitting plate 140 through the opening 112a. That is, the brush component 130 is configured to be assembled from the outside in. Accordingly, the user can easily replace the brush component 130.

[0095] The image selection module 100 of this embodiment is suitable for application on the windshield of a vehicle due to its small footprint; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the image selection module 100 can be applied to other parts of the vehicle.

[0096] The following example illustrates the operation flow of the image selection module 100 in this embodiment.

[0097] Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The flowchart shows the operation of the image selection module. (Example:) Figure 7 As shown, when the system detects that the image selection quality of the image selection unit 120 is lower than a predetermined quality, the control unit 160 generates a start signal (step S11). The drive assembly 150 receives the start signal (step S12). The motor 152 rotates forward to move the light-transmitting plate 140 along the first direction D1 (step S13). The motor 152 rotates in reverse according to a control signal corresponding to a predetermined time length or a control signal corresponding to the sensor 170 to move the light-transmitting plate 140 along the second direction D2 (step S14). The motor 152 continuously alternates between steps S13 and S14 according to a control signal corresponding to a predetermined time length or a control signal corresponding to the sensor 170. Figure 8 As shown, when the system detects that the image selection quality of the image selection unit 120 is higher than the predetermined quality, the control unit 160 generates a stop signal (step S21). The drive assembly 150 receives the stop signal (step S22). The motor 152 stops (step S23).

[0098] Figure 9 The illustration depicts an image selection module of another embodiment of the present invention mounted on the rear shell of a vehicle. Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An exploded view of the rear body and image selection module. Figure 11 and Figure 12 Draw Figure 9 The light-transmitting panel operates. Please refer to [the documentation / reference]. Figure 9 and Figure 10 In this embodiment, the image selection module 200 is, for example, mounted on the rear body 60 of a vehicle to select images from behind the vehicle. The image selection module 200 is, for example, a panoramic camera for vehicles. The image selection module 200 includes a main body 210A, a frame 210B, an image selection unit 220, a brush member 230, a light-transmitting plate 240, a first driving assembly 250A, and a second driving assembly 250B. The frame 210B is movably disposed on the main body 210A along an axis A2. The image selection unit 220 is disposed on the main body 210A. The brush member 230 is, for example, a rubber component and is disposed on the main body 210A. The light-transmitting plate 240 is, for example, a glass plate, which is movably disposed on the frame 210B along an axis A3 perpendicular to axis A2 and contacts the brush member 230. The first driving assembly 250A is disposed on the main body 210A and is used to drive the frame 210B as follows: Figures 11 to 12 The light-transmitting plate 240 moves along axis A2 as shown. The second drive assembly 250B is disposed on the frame 210B and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate 240 from... Figure 9 The position shown is moved along axis A3 to Figure 11 The position is shown. By means of the cooperation of the first drive assembly 250A and the second drive assembly 250B in the above-described driving methods, the light-transmitting plate 240 can be moved in a bow-shaped trajectory, a zigzag trajectory, or a sawtooth trajectory.

[0099] As described above, in the image selection module 200 of this embodiment, the light-transmitting plate 240, which serves as the lens surface, is configured to be driven by the first driving component 250A and the second driving component 250B to move along axes A2 and A3, and the image selection module 200 is provided with a brush member 230 that contacts the light-transmitting plate 240. Accordingly, as the light-transmitting plate 240 moves along axes A2 and A3, the brush member 230 continuously contacts the light-transmitting plate 240 during the movement of the light-transmitting plate 240 and generates relative displacement with the light-transmitting plate 240, so that dirt on the surface of the light-transmitting plate 240 is scraped off by the brush member 230, thereby achieving the effect of instantly cleaning the lens surface to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module 200. Furthermore, since the image selection module 200 of this embodiment is configured such that the light-transmitting plate 240 is movable while the brush member 230 is stationary, the brush member will not move and obstruct the view of the image selection unit during the cleaning process, allowing the image selection module 200 to continuously perform image selection.

[0100] In detail, the main body 210A of this embodiment includes a first bracket 212A and a second bracket 214A. The first bracket 212A is mounted on the rear body 60, and the second bracket 214A is mounted on the first bracket 212A. A brush component 230 and a first drive assembly 250A are disposed on the first bracket 212A. An image selection unit 220 is disposed on the second bracket 214A. The frame 210B includes a third bracket 212B and a fourth bracket 214B. The third bracket 212B is movably disposed on the first bracket 212A along axis A2, and the fourth bracket 214B is mounted on the third bracket 212B. A light-transmitting plate 240 is movably disposed between the third bracket 212B and the fourth bracket 214B along axis A3. The second drive assembly 250B is disposed on the third bracket 212B.

[0101] The rear body 60, the first bracket 212A, and the third bracket 212B are located between the light-transmitting plate 240 and the brush member 230, and the fourth bracket 214B is located between the image selection unit 220 and the light-transmitting plate 240. The rear body 60 has an opening 62 (marked in...). Figure 10 The first support 212A has an opening 212a (marked in...). Figure 10 The third support 212B has an opening 212b (marked in...). Figure 10 The fourth bracket 214B has an opening 212c (marked in...). Figure 10 The brush member 230 has a contact portion 232 that passes through openings 62, 212a, and 212b to contact the light-transmitting plate 240. The brush member 230 has an opening 230a (marked in...). Figure 10 External light can reach the image selection unit 220 through the opening 230a, the light-transmitting plate 240, and the opening 212c, and the dirt scraped off by the brush member 230 can be discharged through the opening 230a.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first drive assembly 250A includes a motor 252A and a driving worm gear 254A. The motor 252A is coupled to the driving worm gear 254A, which is rotatably disposed on the first bracket 212A and engages with the third bracket 212B. The motor 252A drives the driving worm gear 254A to rotate, thereby moving the third bracket 212B along axis A2. The first drive assembly 250A further includes a driven worm gear 256A, which is rotatably disposed on the first bracket 212A and engages with the third bracket 212B. During the movement of the light-transmitting plate 240 along axis A2, the driven worm gear 256A rotates due to its engagement with the light-transmitting plate 240, enabling the light-transmitting plate 240 to move stably.

[0103] In this embodiment, the second drive assembly 250B includes a motor 252B and a drive wheel 254B. The motor 252B is coupled to the drive wheel 254B. The drive wheel 254B is rotatably mounted on the fourth bracket 214B and contacts the light-transmitting plate 240. The motor 252B drives the drive wheel 254B to rotate, causing the drive wheel 254B to move the light-transmitting plate 240 along axis A3 by means of friction between the drive wheel 254B and the light-transmitting plate 240. The second drive assembly 250B further includes two driven wheels 256B, which are rotatably mounted on the fourth bracket 214B and contact the light-transmitting plate 240. As the light-transmitting plate 240 moves along axis A3, the driven wheel 256B rotates due to the friction between itself and the light-transmitting plate 240. The driving wheel 254B and the driven wheel 256B together press the light-transmitting plate 240 firmly against the brush member 230, ensuring stable movement of the light-transmitting plate 240 and preventing it from shaking or loosening during vehicle operation. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the friction between the driving wheel 254B and the light-transmitting plate 240, and the friction between the driven wheel 256B and the light-transmitting plate 240, is, for example, greater than the friction between the brush member 230 and the light-transmitting plate 240, allowing the light-transmitting plate 240 to be smoothly driven by the second drive assembly 250B and move relative to the brush member 230.

[0104] Please refer to Figure 9 In this embodiment, a signal line L2 connects the substrate 222 of the image selection unit 220 to the motor 252A, allowing the control unit (e.g., a microcontroller unit (MCU)) on the substrate 222 to transmit control signals to the motor 252A via the signal line L2. Similarly, a signal line L1 connects the substrate 222 of the image selection unit 220 to the motor 252B, allowing the control unit (e.g., a microcontroller unit (MCU)) on the substrate 222 to transmit control signals to the motor 252B via the signal line L1. Since the motor 252B will experience relative displacement with the substrate 222 as the frame 210B moves along axis A2, the signal line L1 must have a relatively large length.

[0105] Figure 13 Draw Figure 9 The image selection module contains some components. Please refer to... Figure 13 Image selection module 200 (marked in) Figure 9 It also includes two additional brush members 230', which are disposed on the third support 212B and are used to contact the light-transmitting plate 240 (shown in the figure). Figure 9 Accordingly, the light-transmitting panel 240 can be cleaned more thoroughly by brushing component 230'.

[0106] As mentioned above, Figures 9 to 12 The illustrated embodiments and Figures 1 to 8The main difference in the illustrated embodiment is that, Figures 9 to 12 The image selection module 200 shown allows the light-transmitting plate 240 to move in two axes. Figures 9 to 12 The remaining configurations and modes of operation of the embodiments shown are the same as or similar to those of the embodiments described. Figures 1 to 8 The embodiments shown will not be described in detail here.

[0107] The image selection module 200 in this embodiment is applied to the rear body of the vehicle to provide a reversing camera display function; however, the invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the image selection module 200 may be applied to other parts of the vehicle.

[0108] Figure 14 The illustration depicts an image selection module of another embodiment of the present invention mounted on the rear shell of a vehicle. Figure 15 yes Figure 14 An exploded view of the rear body and image selection module. Please refer to... Figure 14 and Figure 15 In this embodiment, the image selection module 300 is installed, for example, on the rear body 60 of a vehicle to select images from behind the vehicle. The image selection module 300 is, for example, a panoramic camera for vehicles. The image selection module 300 includes a main body 310, an image selection unit 320, a brush member 330, a light-transmitting plate 340, and a driving assembly 350. The image selection unit 320 is disposed on the main body 310. The brush member 330 is disposed on the main body 310. The light-transmitting plate 340 is rotatably disposed on the main body 310 along an axis A4 and contacts the brush member 330. The driving assembly 350 is disposed on the main body 310 and drives the light-transmitting plate 340 to rotate along the axis A4.

[0109] As described above, in the image selection module 300 of this embodiment, the light-transmitting plate 340, which serves as the lens surface, is configured to be driven by the drive assembly 350 to rotate about axis A4, and the image selection module 300 is provided with a brush member 330 that contacts the light-transmitting plate 340. Accordingly, as the light-transmitting plate 340 rotates along axis A4, the brush member 330 continuously contacts the light-transmitting plate 340 during the rotation of the light-transmitting plate 340 and generates relative displacement with the light-transmitting plate 340, so that dirt on the surface of the light-transmitting plate 340 is scraped off by the brush member 330, thereby achieving the effect of instantly cleaning the lens surface to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module 300. Furthermore, since the image selection module 300 of this embodiment is configured such that the light-transmitting plate 340 is movable while the brush member 330 is stationary, the brush member will not move and obstruct the view of the image selection unit during the cleaning process, allowing the image selection module 300 to continuously perform image selection.

[0110] In detail, the main body 310 of this embodiment includes a first bracket 312 and a second bracket 314. The first bracket 312 is used, for example, to be mounted on the rear body 60, and the second bracket 314 is mounted on the first bracket 312 and has an opening 314a (marked as shown in the diagram). Figure 15 A brush component 330 is disposed on the first support 312. An image selection unit 320 includes a substrate 322 and a plurality of image selection devices 324. The substrate 322 is disposed on the second support 314, and the image selection devices 324 are disposed on the substrate 322 and correspond to the opening 314a. A driving assembly 350 is disposed on the second support 314. A light-transmitting plate 340 is rotatably disposed between the first support 312 and the second support 314 along axis A4.

[0111] The light-transmitting plate 340 and the brush component 330 are located on opposite sides of the first bracket 312. The first bracket 312 has an opening 312a (marked in...). Figure 15 The opening 312a corresponds to a portion of the image selection device 324 and the light-transmitting plate 340. The brush member 330 has a contact portion 332, which passes through the opening 62 of the rear body 60 and the opening 312a of the first bracket 312 to contact the light-transmitting plate 340. The brush member 330 has an opening 330a (marked in...). Figure 15 The opening 330a corresponds to a portion of the image selection device 324 and the light-transmitting plate 340. External light can reach the image selection device 324 through the opening 330a and the light-transmitting plate 340, and dirt scraped off by the brush member 330 can be discharged through the opening 330a.

[0112] In this embodiment, the drive assembly 350 includes a motor 352 and a bevel gear set 354, with the bevel gear set 354 coupled between the motor 352 and the light-transmitting plate 340. The motor 352 drives the bevel gear set 354 to rotate, thereby causing the light-transmitting plate 340 to rotate along axis A4. The bevel gear set 354 and a clamping member 356 are located on opposite sides of the light-transmitting plate 340 and fixed to each other. The light-transmitting plate 340 is clamped between the bevel gear set 354 and the clamping member 356 and can reliably rotate with the bevel gear set 354. In other embodiments, the motor 352 may drive the light-transmitting plate 340 to rotate using other types of transmission components, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0113] As mentioned above, Figure 14 and Figure 15 The illustrated embodiments and Figures 1 to 8 The main difference in the illustrated embodiment is that, Figures 14 to 15 The image selection module 300 shown can cause the light-transmitting plate 240 to rotate. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The remaining configurations and modes of operation of the embodiments shown are the same as or similar to those of the embodiments described. Figures 1 to 8The embodiments shown will not be described in detail here.

[0114] The image selection module 300 in this embodiment is applied to the rear body of the vehicle to provide a reversing camera display function; however, the invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the image selection module 300 may be applied to other parts of the vehicle.

[0115] In summary, in the image selection module of the present invention, the light-transmitting plate, which serves as the lens surface, is configured to be driven by a driving component to move along an axis, and the image selection module is provided with a brush member that contacts the light-transmitting plate. Accordingly, as the light-transmitting plate moves along the axis, dirt on the surface of the light-transmitting plate is scraped off by the brush member, thereby achieving the effect of instantly cleaning the lens surface to maintain the clarity of the image selected by the image selection module. Furthermore, since the image selection module of the present invention is configured such that the light-transmitting plate is movable while the brush member is stationary, the brush member will not move and obstruct the view of the image selection unit during the cleaning process, allowing the image selection module to continuously perform image selection.

Claims

1. An image selection module, characterized in that, include: One main body; An image selection unit is configured on the main body; One component is applied to the main body; A light-transmitting plate, movably disposed on the main body along an axis and having a surface, wherein the surface contacts the brush member, and the normal of the surface is substantially orthogonal to the axis; and A drive assembly is disposed on the main body and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to reciprocate along the axis.

2. The image selection module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The main body includes a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket is mounted on the first bracket, the brush component is disposed on the first bracket, the image selection unit and the driving component are disposed on the second bracket, and the light-transmitting plate is movably disposed between the first bracket and the second bracket along the axis.

3. The image selection module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes a motor and a drive wheel. The motor is coupled to the drive wheel, which is rotatably disposed on the main body and contacts the light-transmitting plate. The motor drives the drive wheel to rotate so as to move the light-transmitting plate along the axis.

4. The image selection module as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The drive assembly further includes a passive wheel that is rotatably disposed on the body and in contact with the light-transmitting plate.

5. The image selection module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a control unit coupled to the drive assembly, the control unit being used to control the drive assembly to drive the light-transmitting plate to operate along a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction.

6. The image selection module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit generates a control signal based on the light-transmitting plate moving along the first direction for a predetermined time, and the drive assembly controls the light-transmitting plate to move along the second direction according to the control signal.

7. The image selection module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It further includes a sensor coupled to the control unit, which is used to sense that the light-transmitting plate moves to a predetermined state along the first direction and generates a sensing signal. The control unit generates a control signal based on the sensing signal, and the driving component drives the light-transmitting plate to move along the second direction based on the control signal.

8. The image selection module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It further includes a recording unit, which is coupled to the drive component and the control unit. The recording unit is used to record a cumulative number of drives of the drive component, and the control unit is used to generate an alert signal based on the cumulative number of drives reaching a predetermined value.

9. The image selection module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit generates a start signal based on an image selection quality of the image selection unit being lower than a predetermined quality, the driving component drives the light-transmitting plate according to the start signal, and the control unit generates a stop signal based on an image selection quality of the image selection unit being higher than the predetermined quality, the driving component stops driving the light-transmitting plate according to the stop signal.

10. The image selection module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The image selection module is an automotive surround view camera.

11. An image selection module, characterized in that, include: One main body; An image selection unit is configured on the main body; One component is applied to the main body; A frame, movably configured along an axis on the main body; A light-transmitting plate is movably disposed on the frame along another axis and in contact with the brush component; A first drive assembly, disposed on the main body and used to drive the frame to move along the axis; and A second drive assembly is disposed on the frame and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to move along the other axis.

12. The image selection module as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The main body includes a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket being mounted on the first bracket, the brush component and the first drive assembly being disposed on the first bracket, and the image selection unit being disposed on the second bracket.

13. The image selection module as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The frame includes a third support and a fourth support. The third support is movably disposed on the first support along the axis, and the fourth support is mounted on the third support. The light-transmitting plate is movably disposed between the third support and the fourth support along the other axis, and the second drive assembly is disposed on the third support.

14. The image selection module as described in claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes another brush component, which is disposed on the third bracket and contacts the light-transmitting plate.

15. The image selection module as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The first drive assembly includes a motor and a drive worm gear. The motor is coupled to the drive worm gear, which is rotatably disposed on the main body and in contact with the frame. The motor is used to drive the drive worm gear to rotate so as to move the frame along the axis.

16. The image selection module as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The first drive assembly further includes a passive worm gear rotatably configured on the main body and in contact with the frame.

17. The image selection module as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The second drive assembly includes a motor and a drive wheel. The motor is coupled to the drive wheel, which is rotatably disposed on the frame and in contact with the light-transmitting plate. The motor drives the drive wheel to rotate so as to move the light-transmitting plate along the other axis.

18. The image selection module as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The second drive assembly further includes a passive wheel that is rotatably disposed on the frame and in contact with the light-transmitting panel.

19. The image selection module as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The image selection module is an automotive surround view camera.

20. An image selection module, characterized in that, include: One main body; An image selection unit is configured on the main body; One component is applied to the main body; A light-transmitting plate, rotatably disposed on the main body along an axis and in contact with the brush member; and A drive assembly is disposed on the main body and is used to drive the light-transmitting plate to rotate along the axis.

21. The image selection module as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The main body includes a first bracket and a second bracket. The second bracket is mounted on the first bracket, the brush component is disposed on the first bracket, the image selection unit and the driving component are disposed on the second bracket, and the light-transmitting plate is rotatably disposed between the first bracket and the second bracket along the axis.

22. The image selection module as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes a motor and a bevel gear set, which is coupled between the motor and the light-transmitting plate. The motor drives the bevel gear set to rotate, thereby causing the light-transmitting plate to rotate along the axis.

23. The image selection module as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The image selection module is an automotive surround view camera.

Images