Automobile tailgate storage box and rear surround view camera automatic calibration and installation method

Abstract

This invention discloses a tailgate storage box for automobiles and an automatic calibration and installation method for its rear surround view camera, relating to the technical field of external cargo accessories for the rear of vehicles and vehicle-mounted rearview devices. The storage box is embedded in the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outside of the tailgate and includes a box body, a cover, a hollow column, a rear surround view camera, a support bracket, and a rigid support sleeve. The hollow column forms an independent installation channel and is equipped with a three-layer wiring harness sealing structure; the support bracket, rigid support sleeve, and hub bear axial clamping loads, while the bottom wall of the box body does not serve as an axial pressure-bearing layer; elastic pre-tightening components are provided on the outer periphery of the box body, and a water collection section and elastic one-way drainage components are provided at the bottom. After installation, the field of view deviation is determined based on the vehicle body reference characteristics. Calibration and verification are performed when the deviation and image coverage conditions meet the requirements; in case of abnormalities, the original valid parameters are retained and a prompt is displayed. This invention utilizes the spare tire hub space to store vehicle accessories, reducing fastening deformation, vibration noise, and rearview image deviation, as well as reducing water ingress and accumulation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of vehicle rear external cargo accessories and vehicle rearview devices, and particularly to a vehicle tailgate storage box that utilizes the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outside of the tailgate to store vehicle supplies and is equipped with a rear surround view camera, as well as an automatic calibration and installation method for the rear surround view camera. Background Technology

[0002] Some vehicles have a spare tire mounted on the outside of the tailgate, with a certain amount of internal space in the center of the spare tire rim. A storage box for storing vehicle accessories can be installed in this cavity, expanding the external storage space in the rear of the vehicle; a rear-view camera can also be installed to meet the need for rear-view observation. However, these types of external storage accessories may still have the following issues regarding installation and fixation, driving vibrations, waterproofing, and rearview image adjustment after disassembly and reassembly:

[0003] (1) When the storage box and the spare tire share the same installation position on the tailgate of the car, the axial clamping load generated by the fastening bolts can easily act directly on the box body, causing the bottom wall of the box body to deform, crack or be unstable.

[0004] (2) There is usually an assembly gap between the storage box and the inner wall of the wheel hub. When the vehicle is driven and vibrates or the tailgate is opened and closed, the storage box is prone to radial shaking, collision and abnormal noise.

[0005] (3) The storage box is exposed to the external environment of the vehicle for a long time. Water can easily enter from the joint of the cover, the mounting hole or the location where the camera wire harness passes through, and the water that enters the storage cavity is not easy to drain. If the drain hole is directly installed, the external water may flow back through the drain hole.

[0006] (4) The positions of the partitions inside the existing storage boxes are usually fixed, making it difficult to adjust the storage space according to the size of the stored items, and the space utilization is not flexible enough.

[0007] (5) After the storage box or rear-view camera is disassembled and reassembled, the installation direction and rear field of view of the camera may shift. The existing method usually requires manual inspection and adjustment, which makes it difficult to distinguish between small deviations that can be corrected by image calibration and larger deviations that require reinstallation. It is also easy to have problems with improper calibration parameter updates. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The first objective of this invention is to provide a car tailgate storage box for storing vehicle accessories, which utilizes the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outer side of the tailgate to form an external storage space at the rear of the vehicle, and improves the installation stability of the storage box during vehicle movement and tailgate opening and closing.

[0009] The second objective of this invention is to provide an automatic calibration method for the rear-view camera of the aforementioned automotive tailgate storage box, used to check the rear view image deviation after the storage box or the rear-view camera has been disassembled and reassembled, and to perform calibration within the effective image range.

[0010] The third objective of this invention is to provide a method for installing a car tailgate storage box, which coordinates the mechanical installation of the storage box, the sealing of the wiring harness, and the inspection of the vehicle's rear view image after installation.

[0011] The first objective of this invention is achieved as follows:

[0012] A tailgate storage box for a car is used to be embedded in the inner cavity of the hub of a spare tire installed on the outside of the tailgate of a car. The spare tire includes a hub and a tire fitted around the outer circumference of the hub. The tailgate of the car is provided with a nut post for installing the spare tire. The tailgate storage box includes a box body, a cover, a hollow column, a rear surround view camera, a support bracket and a rigid support sleeve. A storage cavity is formed inside the box body. The cover is rotatably connected to the box body for opening or closing the storage cavity.

[0013] The hollow column is disposed in the middle of the storage cavity and extends along the depth direction of the box. An installation channel is formed inside the hollow column and is isolated from the storage cavity. The installation channel has a first port near the bottom wall of the box and a second port facing the cover. The rear surround view camera is disposed at the second port. The cover has a camera opening corresponding to the rear surround view camera in the closed state.

[0014] The bottom wall of the box body is provided with an installation through hole, the rigid bearing sleeve passes through the installation through hole, the bearing bracket is disposed in the storage cavity and connected to the box body, one end of the rigid bearing sleeve abuts against the bearing bracket, and the other end abuts directly against the mounting part of the wheel hub or abuts against it through a rigid gasket;

[0015] The fastening bolts pass sequentially through the bolt holes on the bearing bracket, the rigid bearing sleeve, and the hub, and are threadedly connected to the nut. The mounting portion of the bearing bracket, the rigid bearing sleeve, and the hub forms a rigid load transmission path that bears the axial clamping load of the fastening bolts. The bottom wall of the box does not serve as an axial pressure-bearing interlayer in the rigid load transmission path.

[0016] The outer periphery of the box body is provided with a plurality of radially positioned portions arranged at intervals along the circumference. At least some of the radially positioned portions are provided with elastic pre-tightening members. When the box body is embedded in the inner cavity of the wheel hub, the elastic pre-tightening members are compressed between the corresponding radially positioned portions and the inner circumferential wall of the wheel hub to apply radial pre-tightening force to the box body.

[0017] This invention embeds the box body into the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outside of the car tailgate, and places the rear surround view camera at the end of the installation channel isolated from the storage cavity. This allows the spare tire hub cavity to form an external storage space while simultaneously meeting the needs of rear-view image acquisition. The axial clamping load generated by the fastening bolts is transmitted through the bearing bracket, rigid bearing sleeve, and the mounting part of the hub, so that the bottom wall of the box body does not directly bear the clamping pressure, which can reduce the possibility of deformation or cracking of the bottom wall of the box body. The elastic preload is compressed between the box body and the inner circumferential wall of the hub, which can reduce the shaking of the box body and the impact of opening and closing the car tailgate caused by vehicle driving vibration and collision noise, thereby improving the installation stability of the car tailgate storage box.

[0018] The primary objective of this invention can also be achieved using the following technical measures:

[0019] Furthermore, the rigid bearing sleeve has a first bearing end facing the storage cavity and a second bearing end facing the hub, the first bearing end and the second bearing end respectively extending out of the two sides of the bottom wall of the box along the axial direction of the rigid bearing sleeve;

[0020] The first bearing end abuts against the bearing bracket, and the second bearing end abuts directly against the mounting part of the wheel hub or abuts against it through the rigid gasket;

[0021] An annular elastic seal is provided between the outer peripheral wall of the rigid bearing sleeve and the wall of the mounting through hole.

[0022] By extending the first and second bearing ends of the rigid bearing sleeve to the sides of the bottom wall of the box and forming rigid contact with the mounting parts of the bearing bracket and the hub, the axial clamping load of the fastening bolts can be reliably transmitted along the rigid bearing sleeve, reducing the risk of the bottom wall of the box being clamped. The annular elastic seal between the rigid bearing sleeve and the mounting through hole can seal the assembly gap between them, reducing the amount of rainwater or cleaning water entering the storage cavity along the mounting through hole, thus improving the waterproof performance of the installation part while ensuring the installation strength of the storage box.

[0023] Furthermore, the radial positioning part is a radial positioning rib provided on the outer peripheral wall of the box, and the elastic preload is detachably provided on at least part of the radial positioning rib facing the inner peripheral wall of the hub;

[0024] When the housing and the hub are in the predetermined assembly position, the radial thickness of the elastic preload protruding from the corresponding radial positioning rib toward the inner peripheral wall of the hub in the free state is greater than the radial distance between the radial positioning rib and the inner peripheral wall of the hub.

[0025] By ensuring that the radial thickness of the elastic preload protruding from the radial positioning rib in its free state is greater than the radial distance between the radial positioning rib and the inner circumferential wall of the wheel hub, it is possible to ensure that the elastic preload remains compressed after the housing is installed into the inner cavity of the wheel hub and continuously abuts against the inner circumferential wall of the wheel hub. This compensates for the assembly gap between the housing and different wheel hubs, reducing the radial movement of the housing and collision noise during vehicle operation. The elastic preload is also designed to be detachable, making it easy to replace individually after wear or aging, which helps to maintain the preload effect during long-term use.

[0026] Furthermore, at least three elastic preload members arranged circumferentially around the box body each include a first elastic abutment portion and a second elastic abutment portion spaced apart along the depth direction of the box body. A deformation clearance groove is provided between the first elastic abutment portion and the second elastic abutment portion. When the box body is embedded in the inner cavity of the wheel hub, the first elastic abutment portion and the second elastic abutment portion are respectively compressed between the corresponding radial positioning portion and the inner peripheral wall of the wheel hub, forming two abutment areas spaced apart along the depth direction of the box body, so as to restrict the radial movement and tilting swing of the box body relative to the wheel hub.

[0027] Furthermore, a first waterproof silicone sheet, a second waterproof silicone sheet, and a third waterproof silicone sheet are sequentially and spaced apart along the direction from the second port toward the first port within the installation channel;

[0028] Each of the waterproof silicone sheets has an elastic sealing part on its outer periphery that is interference-fitted with the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column;

[0029] The first waterproof silicone sheet, the second waterproof silicone sheet, and the third waterproof silicone sheet are respectively provided with a first wire passage hole, a second wire passage hole, and a third wire passage hole. The wire harness of the rear surround view camera passes through the first wire passage hole, the second wire passage hole, and the third wire passage hole in sequence. The diameter of each wire passage hole in the free state is smaller than the outer diameter of the wire harness at the corresponding insertion position, so that the hole wall of each wire passage hole elastically abuts against the outer periphery of the wire harness.

[0030] A waterproof sealant layer is provided between the wall of at least one of the wire-passing holes and the outer periphery of the wire harness;

[0031] A first waterproof buffer cavity is formed between the first waterproof silicone sheet and the second waterproof silicone sheet, and a second waterproof buffer cavity is formed between the second waterproof silicone sheet and the third waterproof silicone sheet. The first waterproof buffer cavity and the second waterproof buffer cavity are separated by the second waterproof silicone sheet.

[0032] By placing three waterproof silicone sheets at intervals in the installation channel of the rear surround view camera, and ensuring that the outer periphery of each waterproof silicone sheet is interference-fitted with the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column, and that the hole wall of each wire passage is elastically pressed against the outer periphery of the wire harness, water can be prevented from continuing to seep in along the inner wall of the installation channel and the outer periphery of the wire harness. The waterproof sealant layer can further seal the small gaps between the wire passage and the wire harness, and the waterproof buffer cavity formed between adjacent waterproof silicone sheets can separate each sealing position from each other, thereby reducing the possibility of rainwater or washing water from outside the vehicle entering the vehicle's electrical connection side through the wire harness passage.

[0033] Furthermore, the box body is provided with a water collection part located at the lower part of the storage cavity when the car tailgate storage box is installed. The water collection part is provided with a drain hole penetrating the bottom wall of the box body. The space in the inner cavity of the wheel hub located outside the box body is the outer space of the box body. The outer end of the drain hole communicates with the outer space of the box body.

[0034] The drain hole is provided with an elastic one-way drain element, which is configured to allow water to flow from the water collection part through the drain hole to the outer space of the box, and restrict the water from flowing in the opposite direction;

[0035] When the pressure exerted on the elastic one-way drainage component by the water collection part is higher than the pressure exerted on the elastic one-way drainage component by the outer space of the box, and the difference between the two reaches a preset opening pressure difference, the elastic one-way drainage component elastically deforms and makes the drainage hole open.

[0036] When the pressure on one side of the outer space of the box is greater than the pressure on the side of the water collection part, the elastic one-way drainage member is pressed in the direction of closing the drainage hole to restrict the backflow of water in the outer space of the box into the storage cavity.

[0037] By setting a water collection section at the bottom of the storage cavity, water entering the storage cavity can be collected at the drain hole. When the pressure difference between the water collection section and the outer space of the box reaches the preset opening pressure difference, the elastic one-way drainage component undergoes elastic deformation and drains the accumulated water into the outer space of the box in the inner cavity of the wheel hub, which helps to reduce the water accumulation in the storage cavity. When the pressure on the outer space of the box is higher, the elastic one-way drainage component is subjected to pressure in the direction of closing the drain hole, which can limit the backflow of water in the inner cavity of the wheel hub into the storage cavity, thus adapting to the usage environment where the outer side of the car tailgate is easily affected by rainwater and road splashes.

[0038] Furthermore, the storage cavity is provided with a layered assembly, which includes a first partition and a second partition respectively disposed on opposite sides of the hollow column;

[0039] The first partition and the second partition are respectively detachably supported at one end near the hollow column by a connecting seat provided on the outer periphery of the hollow column, and respectively detachably supported at one end away from the hollow column by the inner peripheral wall of the box.

[0040] The hollow column has at least two spaced installation positions along the depth direction of the box, and the connecting seat can be selectively installed in one of the installation positions. The inner peripheral wall of the box has partition support positions corresponding to each of the installation positions.

[0041] By setting a first partition and a second partition on opposite sides of the hollow column, a layered space for classifying and storing vehicle tools and other items can be formed in the storage cavity. The connecting seat can be selectively installed at different installation positions along the depth direction of the box and together with the corresponding partition support positions on the inner peripheral wall of the box, it supports the two partitions, so that the layered positions can be adjusted according to the size of the stored items, thereby improving the utilization of the limited storage space in the inner cavity of the wheel hub and facilitating the disassembly and assembly of the partitions and the cleaning of the inside of the storage cavity.

[0042] Furthermore, a camera mounting bracket is provided at the second port, and the rear surround view camera is mounted on the camera mounting bracket;

[0043] An elastic damping component is provided between the camera mounting base and the hollow column, and the camera mounting base and the hollow column are circumferentially limited.

[0044] The camera mounting base is provided with a directional positioning part, and the rear surround view camera is provided with a directional positioning mating part that cooperates with the directional positioning part, so as to restrict the rear surround view camera from rotating relative to the camera mounting base around its optical axis;

[0045] The box body has a first annular sealing strip around the storage cavity at the open end, and a second annular sealing strip around the rear surround-view camera at the second port.

[0046] When the cover is closed, the first annular sealing strip is pressed between the opening end of the box and the cover, and the second annular sealing strip is pressed between the periphery of the second port and the periphery of the camera opening of the cover.

[0047] By installing an elastic damping component between the camera mounting base and the hollow column, the impact of vehicle driving vibration and the opening and closing of the car tailgate on the rear surround view camera can be buffered. The circumferential limiting between the camera mounting base and the hollow column, as well as the directional positioning cooperation between the rear surround view camera and the camera mounting base, can limit the rotation of the rear surround view camera around its optical axis and reduce the possibility of the camera direction deviating. After the cover is closed, the first and second annular sealing strips seal the periphery of the storage cavity opening and the camera opening, respectively, which can reduce the entry of external water into the storage cavity or camera mounting area from different joint positions.

[0048] In another embodiment, the first annular sealing strip includes two independent sealing segments, each of which is a closed ring and is spaced apart at the opening end of the box body in a direction from the outside to the inside; the cover has sealing contact areas corresponding to the two sealing segments respectively, and when the cover is closed, the two sealing segments are pressed between the opening end of the box body and the cover respectively to form a continuous sealing path around the opening of the storage cavity.

[0049] The second objective of this invention is achieved as follows:

[0050] An automatic calibration method for a rear-view camera in a car tailgate storage box, wherein the car tailgate storage box is embedded in the inner cavity of the spare tire hub installed on the outside of the car tailgate, the car tailgate storage box includes a box body, a cover, a hollow column, a rear-view camera, a support bracket and a rigid support sleeve, the cover is rotatably connected to the box body, the hollow column forms an installation channel that is isolated from the storage cavity of the box body, the rear-view camera is disposed at the port of the installation channel facing the cover, and the cover has a camera opening corresponding to the rear-view camera in the closed state;

[0051] The support bracket is disposed in the storage cavity and connected to the box body. The rigid support sleeve passes through the mounting through hole in the bottom wall of the box body. One end of the rigid support sleeve abuts against the support bracket, and the other end abuts directly against the mounting part of the wheel hub or abuts through a rigid washer. The fastening bolt passes through the bolt holes on the support bracket, the rigid support sleeve and the wheel hub in sequence, and is threadedly connected to the nut on the tailgate of the car. The support bracket, the rigid support sleeve and the mounting part of the wheel hub form a rigid load transmission path that bears the axial clamping load of the fastening bolt. The bottom wall of the box body does not serve as an axial bearing layer in the rigid load transmission path.

[0052] The outer periphery of the box body is provided with a plurality of radially positioned portions arranged at intervals along the circumference, and at least some of the radially positioned portions are provided with elastic pre-tightening members, which are compressed between the corresponding radially positioned portions and the inner peripheral wall of the hub.

[0053] The method is executed by an image processing controller connected to the rear surround view camera, and includes the following steps:

[0054] In response to at least one of the following calibration trigger conditions: re-establishing electrical connection of the rear surround view camera, receiving a reinstallation completion signal of the tailgate storage box, or receiving a camera calibration command, when the vehicle is stationary and the tailgate is closed, the image currently captured by the rear surround view camera is acquired, the image is processed according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then the distortion-corrected image is processed according to the currently valid image calibration parameters to obtain the current rear view image.

[0055] The preset vehicle body reference features in the current rear view image are identified, and the feature point coordinates of the preset vehicle body reference features are extracted. The preset vehicle body reference features are vehicle body outline features that maintain a fixed positional relationship with the vehicle body and are located within the field of view of the rear surround view camera, or calibration marks set on the vehicle body.

[0056] If fewer than two feature points are extracted that are different in location and correspond to the pre-stored reference coordinates, a calibration error message will be output, and the current valid image calibration parameters will be prohibited from being updated using the current detection results.

[0057] When at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates are extracted, the coordinates of each feature point are compared with the corresponding reference coordinates to determine the field of view deviation. The reference coordinates are the coordinates of the corresponding feature points obtained under the reference state where the vehicle is stationary, the tailgate is closed, and the rear view image meets the preset rear view field of view requirements.

[0058] When the field of view deviation is not greater than the first deviation threshold, the currently valid image calibration parameters are maintained.

[0059] When the field of view deviation is greater than the first deviation threshold and not greater than the second deviation threshold, candidate image calibration parameters are determined based on the feature point coordinates and the corresponding reference coordinates. It is then determined whether the effective pixel area of ​​the current acquired image after distortion correction covers the sampling area required to generate the preset rear view field of view according to the candidate image calibration parameters. When the effective pixel area covers the sampling area, the current acquired image after distortion correction is processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain the calibrated rear view image. When the effective pixel area does not cover the sampling area, a calibration error message is output, and updating the currently effective image calibration parameters using the current detection result is prohibited.

[0060] When the field of view deviation exceeds the second deviation threshold, an installation error message is output, and the current valid image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the current detection result.

[0061] Wherein, the first deviation threshold is less than the second deviation threshold.

[0062] By re-establishing the electrical connection of the rear-view camera, reinstalling the tailgate storage box, or receiving a calibration command, the rear view image of the vehicle when stationary and with the tailgate closed can be inspected. This reduces the interference of vehicle movement and tailgate position changes on the judgment of field of view deviation. The amount of field of view deviation is determined by using reference features that maintain a fixed positional relationship with the vehicle body. Depending on the magnitude of the deviation, the original parameters are maintained, the image is calibrated, or an installation abnormality is indicated. This can reduce the position, orientation, and scale deviation of the rear view output image relative to the reference state within the current effective image coverage area, while avoiding the use of large-scale image processing to cover up mechanical installation abnormalities. When there are insufficient feature points or the effective image range cannot cover the required sampling area, parameter updates are stopped, which can also prevent the formation of a rear view image lacking effective image content.

[0063] The second objective of this invention can also be achieved by the following technical measures:

[0064] Furthermore, the field of view deviation is the ratio of the maximum value of the two-dimensional Euclidean distance between the coordinates of each feature point and the corresponding reference coordinates to the diagonal length of the current rear view image;

[0065] Based on the feature point coordinates and the corresponding reference coordinates, similarity transformation parameters are determined to transform the current rear view image to the rear view image in the reference state. The similarity transformation parameters include image translation parameters, image rotation parameters, and image scaling parameters. The similarity transformation parameters are then combined with the currently effective image calibration parameters to obtain the candidate image calibration parameters.

[0066] After obtaining the calibrated rear view image according to the candidate image calibration parameters, the newly acquired image from the rear surround view camera is obtained, the newly acquired image is processed according to the fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then the newly acquired image after distortion correction is processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain the verification rear view image.

[0067] Extract the feature point coordinates of the preset vehicle body reference feature from the verified rear view image. When at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates are extracted, determine the calibration residual deviation in the same calculation method as the field deviation.

[0068] When the calibration residual deviation is not greater than the preset verification threshold, the candidate image calibration parameters are stored as new currently valid image calibration parameters;

[0069] When the calibration residual deviation is greater than the preset verification threshold, or when at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates cannot be extracted from the verified image, the candidate image calibration parameters are not confirmed as new currently valid image calibration parameters, the image calibration parameters before calibration are restored, and a calibration error message is output.

[0070] Wherein, the preset verification threshold is not greater than the first deviation threshold.

[0071] By using the ratio of the maximum positional deviation of feature points to the diagonal length of the current rear view image to represent the field of view deviation, the field of view changes in different rear view images can be evaluated on a relative scale. Based on the feature point coordinates and the reference coordinates, image translation, image rotation, and image scaling parameters can be determined, which can calibrate small field of view offsets caused by disassembly and assembly. After calibration, the image is re-acquired and the calibration residual deviation is determined. The candidate image calibration parameters are saved only when the verification results meet the requirements. If the verification fails, the parameters before calibration are restored, which can reduce the impact of recognition errors or abnormal parameter calculations on the rear view of the vehicle.

[0072] Furthermore, multiple rear view images are continuously acquired, and the coordinates of corresponding feature points of the same preset vehicle body reference feature are extracted from each rear view image. The inter-frame fluctuation amount is determined based on the dispersion of the corresponding feature point coordinates among the rear view images. When the inter-frame fluctuation amount is not greater than a preset stability threshold, the field of view deviation amount is determined based on the median coordinates of each corresponding feature point coordinate. When the inter-frame fluctuation amount is greater than the preset stability threshold, an installation stability abnormality prompt is output, and the current valid image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the acquisition results.

[0073] The third objective of this invention is achieved as follows:

[0074] A method for installing a car tailgate storage box, the car tailgate storage box including a box body, a cover rotatably connected to the box body, a hollow column, a rear surround view camera, a support bracket, a rigid support sleeve, and an elastic pre-tightening member, wherein the hollow column forms an installation channel isolated from the storage cavity of the box body, the support bracket is disposed in the storage cavity and connected to the box body, and the outer periphery of the box body is provided with a plurality of radially spaced radial positioning parts, at least some of the radial positioning parts being provided with the elastic pre-tightening member, including the following steps:

[0075] The wiring harness of the rear surround view camera is sequentially passed through the wire holes of the first, second, and third waterproof silicone sheets, so that the wall of each wire hole elastically abuts against the outer periphery of the wiring harness, and a waterproof sealant layer is formed between the wall of at least one wire hole and the outer periphery of the wiring harness; the three waterproof silicone sheets are sequentially and spaced apart in the mounting channel from the port of the faceplate to the port near the bottom wall of the housing, so that the elastic sealing part of the outer periphery of each waterproof silicone sheet is interference-fitted with the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column, and the rear surround view camera is installed at the port of the mounting channel facing the faceplate;

[0076] The housing is inserted into the inner cavity of the spare tire hub located on the outside of the car tailgate, so that the elastic preload is compressed between the corresponding radial positioning part and the inner peripheral wall of the hub. One end of the rigid bearing sleeve passing through the bottom wall of the housing abuts against the bearing bracket, and the other end abuts directly against the mounting part of the hub or abuts through a rigid gasket. The fastening holes on the bearing bracket, the inner hole of the rigid bearing sleeve, the bolt holes on the hub, and the nut post on the car tailgate are aligned.

[0077] The fastening bolts are passed sequentially through the fastening hole, the inner hole of the rigid bearing sleeve, and the bolt hole, and are threadedly connected to the nut post, so that the bearing bracket, the rigid bearing sleeve, and the mounting part of the hub form a rigid load transmission path that bears the axial clamping load. The bottom wall of the box body does not serve as an axial pressure-bearing interlayer in the rigid load transmission path.

[0078] The wiring harness is connected to the vehicle's camera electrical connection interface. When the rear surround view camera establishes an electrical connection and the vehicle is stationary with the tailgate closed, the image processing controller connected to the rear surround view camera acquires the image currently captured by the rear surround view camera, processes the image according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then processes the distortion-corrected image according to the currently valid image calibration parameters to obtain the current rear view image. The feature point coordinates of the preset vehicle body reference features are extracted from the current rear view image.

[0079] If fewer than two feature points are extracted that are different in location and correspond to the pre-stored reference coordinates, a calibration error message will be output, and the current valid image calibration parameters will be prohibited from being updated using the current detection results.

[0080] When at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates are extracted, the coordinates of each feature point are compared with the corresponding reference coordinates to determine the field deviation relative to the preset back view field of view.

[0081] When the field of view deviation is not greater than the first deviation threshold, the currently valid image calibration parameters are maintained.

[0082] When the field of view deviation is greater than the first deviation threshold and not greater than the second deviation threshold, candidate image calibration parameters are determined based on the feature point coordinates and the corresponding reference coordinates. It is then determined whether the effective pixel area of ​​the current acquired image after distortion correction covers the sampling area required to generate the preset rear view field of view according to the candidate image calibration parameters. When the effective pixel area covers the sampling area, the current acquired image after distortion correction is processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain the calibrated rear view image. When the effective pixel area does not cover the sampling area, a calibration error message is output, and updating the currently effective image calibration parameters using the current detection result is prohibited.

[0083] When the field of view deviation exceeds the second deviation threshold, an installation error message is output, and the current valid image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the current detection result.

[0084] The preset vehicle body reference feature is a vehicle body outline feature that maintains a fixed positional relationship with the vehicle body and is located within the field of view of the rear surround view camera, or a calibration mark set on the vehicle body; the reference coordinates are the coordinates of the corresponding feature points obtained under the reference state that the vehicle is stationary, the tailgate is closed, and the rear view image meets the preset rear view field of view requirements; the first deviation threshold is less than the second deviation threshold.

[0085] This invention installs the car tailgate storage box in the following sequence: wiring harness sealing, box installation, fastening component alignment, fastening bolt tightening, electrical connection, and rear-view field of view inspection. This allows three waterproof silicone sheets to seal the wiring harness and hollow column, maintaining the elastic preload in compressed contact. The axial clamping load of the fastening bolts is transmitted through the support bracket, rigid support sleeve, and wheel hub mounting section, thereby reducing the possibility of water ingress at the wiring harness insertion point, box assembly wobbling, and box bottom wall deformation under pressure. After installation, the rear-view field of view is inspected based on the vehicle's reference features. Based on the degree of deviation, parameters are maintained, automatically calibrated, or abnormal alerts are provided. This allows for timely detection of installation deviations in the storage box or rear surround view camera, improving the reliability of the vehicle's rear-view observation function after installation.

[0086] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0087] (1) The present invention embeds the box body into the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outside of the tailgate of the car, which can utilize the space in the middle of the spare tire to store the vehicle's accessories, and provides the rear surround view camera with installation and wiring space isolated from the storage cavity through the hollow column. The bearing bracket and rigid bearing sleeve can transfer the axial clamping load generated by the fastening bolts to the mounting part of the hub, avoiding the bottom wall of the box body from becoming the part that directly bears the axial clamping force, thereby reducing the possibility of the box body being deformed or cracked under pressure.

[0088] (2) The present invention utilizes the elastic pre-tightening component set on the outer periphery of the box to compensate for the assembly gap between the box and the inner peripheral wall of the wheel hub, which can reduce vehicle driving vibration and box shaking and collision noise generated during the opening and closing of the car tailgate; the elastic vibration reduction and directional positioning structure of the camera mounting base can also reduce the impact of vibration on the rear surround view camera and limit the change of the installation direction of the rear surround view camera, which is conducive to maintaining the installation stability of the car tailgate storage box and the rear surround view camera.

[0089] (3) The present invention seals the box opening, camera opening, rigid bearing sleeve insertion position and camera wire harness insertion position respectively, and uses three waterproof silicone sheets and two waterproof buffer cavities to prevent water from continuing to seep in along the installation channel; the water entering the storage cavity can be collected in the water collection part, and after reaching the preset opening pressure difference, it is discharged into the outer space of the box through the elastic one-way drainage component, while restricting the backflow of external water through the drainage hole, thereby improving the adaptability of the car tailgate outer storage box to rainwater, washing water and road splash water.

[0090] (4) After the tailgate storage box or rear surround view camera of a car is disassembled and installed, the present invention can check the rear field of view based on the body reference features in the rear view image, and determine whether to keep the original parameters, perform image calibration or prompt installation abnormality based on the degree of field of view deviation; after calibration, it can also be verified by the newly acquired rear view image, and restore the parameters before calibration when the verification fails, thereby reducing the manual adjustment work after disassembly and assembly, avoiding the influence of incorrect calibration parameters on the rear view of the vehicle, and improving the reliability of installation inspection and rear view image calibration. Attached Figure Description

[0091] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a car tailgate storage box embedded in the inner cavity of the spare tire hub, which is installed on the outside of the car tailgate.

[0092] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the separation of the tailgate storage box from the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outside of the tailgate.

[0093] Figure 3 This is another angled diagram showing the separation between the tailgate storage box and the inner cavity of the spare tire hub on the outside of the tailgate.

[0094] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram showing the separation of the box body, support frame, spare tire, and tailgate.

[0095] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the separation of the tailgate storage box, spare tire, and tailgate of a car.

[0096] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the tailgate storage compartment of a car (with the cover closed).

[0097] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the tailgate storage compartment of a car (with the cover closed).

[0098] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the tailgate storage compartment of a car (with the cover open).

[0099] Figure 9 This is another angle view of the tailgate storage box (with the cover open).

[0100] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing the separation of the box body and the layered components (with the cover open).

[0101] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the separation of the box body, layered components, and support frame (with the cover open).

[0102] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the separation of the box body, including a first annular sealing strip and a second annular sealing strip with two independent sealing sections, in another embodiment (with the cover open).

[0103] Figure 13 This is a partial sectional view of the rigid load-bearing sleeve and the annular elastic seal.

[0104] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the wire harness passing through the first, second, and third waterproof silicone sheets.

[0105] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the first waterproof silicone sheet.

[0106] Figure 16 This diagram illustrates how water in the water collection section is discharged through the drain hole and the flexible one-way drainage component.

[0107] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of two elastic lips of an elastic unidirectional drainage component restoring their fit to a closed state based on their own elasticity.

[0108] Figure 18 Create a flowchart for the baseline information. Detailed Implementation

[0109] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the following embodiments are used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0110] Example 1, combined with Figures 1 to 11 and Figures 13 to 18 This embodiment provides a tailgate storage box for automobiles, its installation method, and an automatic calibration method for a rear surround view camera. The tailgate storage box 100 is embedded in the inner cavity of the hub 310 of the spare tire 300, which is installed on the outside of the tailgate 200. The spare tire 300 includes a hub 310 and a tire 320 fitted around the outer periphery of the hub 310. The tailgate 200 is provided with a nut post 210 for mounting the spare tire 300. The nut post 210 has an internally threaded hole facing the hub 310, and the mounting portion 311 of the hub 310 has bolt holes 312 corresponding to the nut post 210.

[0111] This embodiment determines the orientation based on the state when the tailgate 200 is closed and the spare tire 300 is fixed to the outside of the tailgate 200. The depth direction of the box 10 is from the side near the tailgate 200 to the side away from the tailgate 200; the bottom wall 12 of the box 10 is the side wall near the tailgate 200, not the lower side wall in the direction of gravity; the lower part of the storage cavity 11 refers to the area close to the ground in the above-described installation state. Both the radial and circumferential directions are determined based on the central axis of the box 10.

[0112] The tailgate storage box 100 constitutes an external cargo accessory for storing vehicle accessories. The load of the box 10 and the items inside is transferred to the mounting position on the tailgate 200 via the support bracket 50 and fastening connection. The inner cavity of the spare tire 300 provides space for the box 10, and the spare tire mounting position on the tailgate 200 is used to secure the external cargo accessory. The rear surround view camera 40 is used to capture images behind the vehicle, and its mounting channel 31 is isolated from the storage cavity 11 to reduce the impact of stored items on the camera and wiring harness.

[0113] The tailgate storage box 100 includes a box body 10, a cover 20, a hollow column 30, a rear surround view camera 40, a support bracket 50, and a rigid support sleeve 60. The box body 10 is an engineering plastic shell with a circular opening, forming a storage cavity 11 inside. The cover 20 is rotatably connected to the box body 10 via a hinge, and the cover 20 is provided with a latch 22 that cooperates with the box body 10. After the latch 22 is opened, the cover 20 can be flipped to expose the storage cavity 11; when the cover 20 is closed, it is held in the closed position by the latch 22. A camera opening 23 is provided in the center of the cover 20.

[0114] A hollow column 30 is located in the center of the storage cavity 11 and extends along the depth direction of the box body 10. An installation channel 31 is formed inside the hollow column 30. A first port 32 is formed at the end of the installation channel 31 near the bottom wall 12, and a second port 33 is formed at the end facing the cover 20. The peripheral wall of the hollow column 30 separates the installation channel 31 from the storage cavity 11, and the first port 32 is circumferentially sealed at the point where it passes through the bottom wall 12. A rear-view camera 40 is installed at the second port 33, and a wiring harness 41 is led through the installation channel 31 and the first port 32 to the vehicle's camera electrical connection interface. The position and size of the camera opening 23 are configured such that, when the cover 20 is closed, the camera opening 23 does not obstruct the imaging area required by the rear-view camera 40.

[0115] The support bracket 50 is made of stainless steel plate and has three fastening holes 51, which correspond to the three bolt holes 312 of the spare tire 300 in this embodiment. The housing 10 has a mounting boss with a threaded metal insert fixed inside. The support bracket 50 is fixed to the mounting boss by connecting screws, thus maintaining the connection between the support bracket 50 and the housing 10. The connecting screws are independent of the fastening bolts 61 used to lock the spare tire 300. Figure 11 Also shown is a perforated plate on the side of the support bracket 50 facing the storage cavity 11, with an opening in the middle for the hollow column 30 to pass through, and clearance holes at the fastening connection positions.

[0116] The bottom wall 12 of the box body 10 has three mounting through holes 121, and a rigid bearing sleeve 60 made of stainless steel is inserted into each mounting through hole 121. The first bearing end 601 of the rigid bearing sleeve 60 faces the storage cavity 11, and the second bearing end 602 faces the wheel hub 310. The first bearing end 601 abuts against and is welded to the bearing bracket 50, and the second bearing end 602 directly abuts against the mounting part 311 of the wheel hub 310. In this embodiment, no rigid gasket is provided between the second bearing end 602 and the mounting part 311; in other embodiments, a metal rigid gasket may be provided between them according to the mating dimensions.

[0117] At each location of the mounting through-hole 121, the local thickness of the bottom wall 12 is 3 mm, the axial length of the rigid bearing sleeve 60 is 5 mm, and the first bearing end 601 and the second bearing end 602 extend 1 mm beyond the corresponding side surface of the bottom wall 12. The bearing bracket 50 is held in place on the support plane of the first bearing end 601 by a mounting boss, thus maintaining a gap between the bearing bracket 50 and the bottom wall 12; a gap is also maintained between the mounting part 311 and the bottom wall 12 outside the contact area of ​​the second bearing end 602. Assembly tolerances and elastic deformation after locking do not eliminate the above gaps, so that the bottom wall 12 does not become an axial bearing sandwich between the bearing bracket 50 and the mounting part 311.

[0118] The fastening bolt 61 passes sequentially through the fastening hole 51, the inner hole of the rigid bearing sleeve 60, and the bolt hole 312, and is screwed into the nut post 210. After tightening, the head of the fastening bolt 61 applies an axial clamping load to the bearing bracket 50. This axial clamping load is transmitted through the first bearing end 601, the rigid bearing sleeve 60, and the second bearing end 602 to the mounting part 311 of the wheel hub 310, and then from the mounting part 311 to the mounting position of the tailgate 200. The bottom wall 12 does not participate in the above-mentioned axial clamping contact. The gravity and vibration loads generated by the box body 10 and the stored items are transmitted to the vehicle mounting position through the mounting boss, connecting screws, bearing bracket 50, and fastening connection parts.

[0119] The rigid bearing sleeve 60 has an annular groove 603 on its outer periphery, and an annular elastic seal 62 is installed in the annular groove 603. The annular elastic seal 62 is a rubber sealing ring, and its outer periphery presses against the wall of the mounting through hole 121 to seal the gap between the rigid bearing sleeve 60 and the mounting through hole 121. The annular elastic seal 62 is not located between the first bearing end 601 and the bearing bracket 50, nor between the second bearing end 602 and the mounting part 311, to maintain rigid contact between the above bearing positions. The specifications, effective engagement length, and locking torque of the fastening bolt 61 are determined according to the spare tire installation requirements of the vehicle, and the axial length occupied by the bearing bracket 50 and the rigid bearing sleeve 60 are taken into account.

[0120] The outer peripheral wall of the housing 10 is provided with six radially spaced locating ribs 13. Each radially locating rib 13 is fitted with an elastic preload 14 on the side facing the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310. The elastic preload 14 is a EPDM rubber pad with a snap-fit ​​foot on its inner side. The radially locating ribs 13 are provided with snap-fit ​​holes for the snap-fit ​​foot to be inserted, so that the elastic preload 14 can be replaced individually after the snap-fit ​​is released.

[0121] When the housing 10 and the hub 310 are in the predetermined assembly position, the nominal radial distance between the radial positioning rib 13 and the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310 is 2 mm, and the radial thickness of the elastic preload 14 protruding from the radial positioning rib 13 towards the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310 in the free state is 2.5 mm. After the housing 10 is inserted into the inner cavity of the hub 310, the elastic preload 14 is compressed between the radial positioning rib 13 and the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310, with a nominal radial compression of 0.5 mm. The outer side of the elastic preload 14 forms an arc-shaped abutment surface that matches the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310, and a guide slope is formed on its insertion side to reduce scratching during assembly. All relevant dimensions and fit tolerances should ensure that the elastic preload 14 has a positive compression after assembly, and that this compression does not exceed its allowable elastic deformation range.

[0122] In one optional embodiment, at least three elastic preload members 14 arranged circumferentially around the housing 10 each have a first elastic abutment portion and a second elastic abutment portion. The first and second elastic abutment portions are arranged at intervals along the depth direction of the housing 10 and are respectively located near the opening end and the bottom wall 12 of the housing 10. A deformation relief groove is provided between the first and second elastic abutment portions, opening towards the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310, so that the two elastic abutment portions can generate radial elastic deformation respectively. After the housing 10 is installed into the inner cavity of the hub 310, the first and second elastic abutment portions are respectively compressed between the radial positioning rib 13 and the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310, forming two abutment areas spaced apart from each other along the depth direction of the housing 10 on the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310. The two elastic abutment parts can respectively compensate for the assembly gap at the corresponding position, and together restrict the radial movement of the housing 10 and the tilting and swaying relative to the wheel hub 310, thereby reducing the shaking of the housing 10 caused by vehicle driving vibration or the impact of opening and closing the tailgate 200, and helping to maintain the installation direction and rear view field of view of the rear surround view camera 40.

[0123] Within the installation channel 31, a first waterproof silicone sheet 34, a second waterproof silicone sheet 35, and a third waterproof silicone sheet 36 are sequentially and spaced apart along the direction from the second port 33 toward the first port 32. All three waterproof silicone sheets are circular silicone rubber components, and each sheet has a continuous annular elastic sealing portion 341 on its outer periphery. The first waterproof silicone sheet 34, the second waterproof silicone sheet 35, and the third waterproof silicone sheet 36 are respectively provided with a first wire passage hole 342, a second wire passage hole 351, and a third wire passage hole 361.

[0124] The inner diameter of the installation channel 31 of each waterproof silicone sheet in the sealing section is 24 mm, the maximum outer diameter of the elastic sealing part 341 in the free state is 24.6 mm, and the thickness of each waterproof silicone sheet is 3 mm. The wire harness 41 has a continuous and round outer sheath at the insertion position, the outer diameter of which is 6 mm, and the diameter of each wire passage hole in the free state is 5.6 mm. After installation, the elastic sealing part 341 is radially compressed and abuts against the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column 30, and the hole wall of each wire passage hole elastically abuts against the outer sheath of the wire harness 41. The sealing position of the wire passage hole avoids wire harness forks, joints, and outer sheath seams.

[0125] The installation channel 31 is provided with annular shoulders and removable limiting rings 39 for maintaining the axial position of each waterproof silicone sheet. The periphery of each waterproof silicone sheet is held between the corresponding annular shoulder and the limiting ring 39. The opposing surfaces of the first waterproof silicone sheet 34 and the second waterproof silicone sheet 35 are spaced 10 mm apart to form a first waterproof buffer cavity 37, and the opposing surfaces of the second waterproof silicone sheet 35 and the third waterproof silicone sheet 36 are spaced 10 mm apart to form a second waterproof buffer cavity 38. The two waterproof buffer cavities are separated by the second waterproof silicone sheet 35 and neither communicates with the storage cavity 11.

[0126] A waterproof sealant layer 42 is provided between the walls of the three through holes and the outer sheath of the wire harness 41. During assembly, the walls of the through holes and the corresponding outer sheaths of the wire harness are first cleaned and dried. A neutral-curing silicone sealant compatible with the silicone rubber and outer sheath material is applied to the corresponding positions. Then, each waterproof silicone sheet is moved to the predetermined position so that the sealant fills the tiny gaps at the contact interface and forms a continuous waterproof sealant layer 42. The position of the wire harness 41 is kept stable before the sealant cures.

[0127] When assembling the three waterproof silicone sheets, before the vehicle-side connector housing of the wiring harness 41 is assembled, first pass the end of the wiring harness that can pass through the wire holes sequentially through the first wire hole 342, the second wire hole 351, and the third wire hole 361 to complete the seal before assembling the vehicle-side connector. A wiring harness fixing clip 43 is provided on the outside of the first port 32, which holds the outer sheath of the wiring harness 41; a loose bending section is retained on the camera side to avoid directly pulling on the sealing positions at each wire hole when plugging or unplugging the connector or when the vehicle vibrates.

[0128] A camera mounting base 44 is provided at the second port 33, and the rear surround view camera 40 is mounted on the camera mounting base 44 by fasteners. The camera mounting base 44 is maintained in axial position by a limiting step and a detachable limiting component at the second port 33. An elastic damping component 45 made of silicone rubber is provided between the camera mounting base 44 and the hollow column 30 to buffer vibrations generated during vehicle movement and the opening and closing of the tailgate 200. A limiting protrusion is provided on the outer periphery of the camera mounting base 44, and a limiting groove is provided on the inner periphery of the hollow column 30 to cooperate with the limiting protrusion. The limiting protrusion extends into the limiting groove so that the camera mounting base 44 and the hollow column 30 are circumferentially limited and cooperated.

[0129] The camera mounting base 44 is provided with a directional positioning part, and the rear surround-view camera 40 is provided with a directional positioning mating part that cooperates with the directional positioning part. In this embodiment, the directional positioning part is a positioning protrusion, and the directional positioning mating part is a positioning groove. After the positioning protrusion engages with the positioning groove, it restricts the rear surround-view camera 40 from rotating relative to the camera mounting base 44 around its optical axis and keeps the rear surround-view camera 40 in a predetermined mounting direction.

[0130] The box body 10 has a first annular sealing strip 16 surrounding the storage cavity 11 at its open end, and a second annular sealing strip 47 surrounding the rear-view camera 40 at its second port 33. When the cover 20 is closed, the first annular sealing strip 16 is pressed between the open end of the box body 10 and the cover 20 to seal the opening of the storage cavity 11; the second annular sealing strip 47 is pressed between the periphery of the second port 33 and the periphery of the camera opening 23 to seal the area where the rear-view camera 40 is located, and the second annular sealing strip 47 does not obstruct the lens of the rear-view camera 40. In this embodiment, the first annular sealing strip 16 is an integrally formed closed annular strip, embedded in the annular mounting groove at the open end of the box body 10; its free height matches the position of the corresponding abutment area of ​​the cover 20, so that after the latch 22 is locked, both the first annular sealing strip 16 and the second annular sealing strip 47 remain in an elastically pressed state.

[0131] In another implementation, such as Figure 12 As shown, the first annular sealing strip 16 includes two independent sealing sections, each a separately molded closed-loop rubber component, which together form the first annular sealing strip 16. The two sealing sections are spaced apart at the open end of the housing 10 in a direction from the outside in, and are respectively embedded in annular mounting grooves that match their respective contours; the contour of each sealing section matches the sealing position of its corresponding open end. The cover 20 has sealing contact areas corresponding to the two sealing sections. After the cover 20 is closed and locked by the latch 22, the two sealing sections undergo elastic compression deformation, each forming a continuous sealing path around the opening of the storage cavity 11, thereby reducing the entry of rainwater, washing water, or road splash water into the storage cavity 11 through the joint between the housing 10 and the cover 20. The two sealing sections can be assembled and replaced separately; the remaining structure, installation, and calibration process in this embodiment are the same as in Example 1.

[0132] A water collection section 122 is provided at the lower part of the storage cavity 11. The water collection section 122 is a groove formed at the lower part of the storage cavity 11 and near the bottom wall 12 in the above-described installed state. The inner surface of the lower part of the storage cavity 11 is inclined towards the water collection section 122 so that water entering the storage cavity 11 flows towards the water collection section 122. The water collection section 122 is provided with a drain hole 123 penetrating the bottom wall 12. The outer end of the drain hole 123 communicates with the outer space of the box body located outside the box body 10 in the inner cavity of the hub 310. A hollow section is formed between the spokes of the hub 310, which communicates with the outer space of the box body, so that water flowing into the outer space of the box body can be discharged to the outside of the hub 310 through the hollow section. The installation channel 31 is separated from the storage cavity 11 by the peripheral wall of the hollow column 30. The wire harness 41 is led out from the first port 32 and avoids the low-level water accumulation area of ​​the outer space of the box body.

[0133] A flexible one-way drainage element 70 is provided at the drain hole 123. The flexible one-way drainage element 70 is made of silicone rubber and includes a sealing mounting part that seals with the drain hole 123 and a duckbill-shaped drainage part facing the outer space of the box. The duckbill-shaped drainage part has two elastic lips that fit together, forming a normally closed slit between the two elastic lips.

[0134] When the pressure on one side of the water collection section 122 is higher than the pressure on the other side of the outer space of the box, and the pressure difference between the two sides reaches the preset opening pressure difference, the two elastic lips separate elastically, allowing water in the water collection section 122 to flow into the outer space of the box through the drain hole 123, and to be discharged to the outside of the hub 310 through the hollow part. When the pressure difference between the two sides decreases to an insufficient level to maintain the opening of the two elastic lips, the two elastic lips return to the closed state by their own elasticity; when the pressure on one side of the outer space of the box is higher than the pressure on the side of the water collection section 122, the two elastic lips are pressed in the direction of mutual contact to prevent water in the outer space of the box from flowing back into the storage cavity 11 through the drain hole 123.

[0135] A gap is provided between the elastic one-way drainage component 70 and the hub 310 to allow the elastic lip to open and water to flow through. The thickness, length, and material hardness of the elastic lip are determined based on a preset opening pressure difference. The preset opening pressure difference is selected based on the allowable water accumulation height of the storage cavity 11 and the actual assembly state. It is confirmed through an opening pressure difference test under the condition that the cover 20 is closed and the drainage outlet has a water passage space, so that the conditions for opening drainage are met before the water accumulation reaches the allowable water accumulation height. During drainage, the air pressure inside the cavity and the back pressure of the space outside the box jointly affect the pressure difference on both sides; drainage occurs when the pressure difference on both sides reaches the opening condition, and drainage stops when the pressure difference is insufficient.

[0136] The storage cavity 11 is provided with a layered assembly 80, which includes a first partition 81, a second partition 82, and a connecting seat 83. The connecting seat 83 is detachably disposed on the outer periphery of the hollow column 30 and is provided with partition mounting grooves for supporting the first partition 81 and the second partition 82. The first partition 81 and the second partition 82 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the hollow column 30. The ends of the first partition 81 and the second partition 82 that are closer to the hollow column 30 are detachably inserted into the corresponding partition mounting grooves, and the ends that are farther away from the hollow column 30 are detachably inserted into the partition support grooves 18 on the inner peripheral wall of the box body 10, thereby forming a layered structure for placing items in the storage cavity 11.

[0137] The hollow column 30 has two spaced-apart mounting positions along the depth direction of the box 10. Each mounting position includes a threaded blind hole formed on the thickened outer part of the hollow column 30, which does not penetrate the mounting channel 31. The connecting seat 83 is detachably fixed to one of the mounting positions by connecting screws. The inner peripheral wall of the box 10 has two sets of partition support grooves 18 at positions corresponding to the two mounting positions. When installing the first partition 81 and the second partition 82, the ends of both closer to the hollow column 30 are installed on the connecting seat 83, and the ends farther from the hollow column 30 are installed in the set of partition support grooves 18 corresponding to the selected mounting positions, so that the first partition 81 and the second partition 82 are supported at the same depth position in the storage cavity 11.

[0138] When the layering position needs to be adjusted, first remove the first partition 81 and the second partition 82, then remove the connecting seat 83 from its current installation position and install it in another installation position. Subsequently, install the first partition 81 and the second partition 82 between the connecting seat 83 and the corresponding partition support groove 18. The installation positions of the first partition 81, the second partition 82, and the connecting seat 83 avoid the assembly and maintenance space of the water collection part 122, the fastening bolts 61, and the wiring harness 41.

[0139] The vehicle is equipped with an image processing controller, a parameter storage unit, and a display and prompting unit. The image processing controller receives images captured by the rear-view camera 40 via the camera electrical connection interface, and receives vehicle speed information and the door lock / close status of the tailgate 200 via the vehicle communication interface, and is connected to the parameter storage unit and the display and prompting unit. The image processing controller performs image acquisition, feature recognition, deviation calculation, parameter generation, image coverage check, and calibration verification processing; the parameter storage unit is used to store reference information, currently valid image calibration parameters, and various thresholds; the display and prompting unit is used to display the rear-view image and installation or calibration error prompts.

[0140] In this embodiment, four calibration marks with different black and white patterns are set on the vehicle body, and these four calibration marks serve as four preset vehicle body reference features. The four calibration marks are fixed to the rigid mounting area of ​​the rear bumper and are distributed within the predetermined field of view of the rear surround view camera 40; the calibration marks are not fixed to the housing 10, the cover 20, the spare tire 300, or other components that open with the tailgate 200. Each calibration mark has a square outer frame and a distinguishable internal pattern. The four corner points of the outer frame of each calibration mark constitute corresponding feature points, providing a total of sixteen feature points with different positions and a defined correspondence.

[0141] In other embodiments, the fixed contour corner points of the rear bumper, the fixed edge intersection points of the body trim, or other body contour features that maintain a fixed positional relationship with the body and can be stably identified can be used as preset body reference features, and the reference coordinates of the corresponding feature points can be stored in advance. Regardless of whether calibration marks or body contour features are used, the selected preset body reference features are all located within the predetermined field of view of the rear surround view camera 40 and do not move with the tailgate storage box 100 or the rear surround view camera 40.

[0142] When establishing baseline information, park the vehicle on a flat surface, keep it stationary, close and lock the tailgate 200, and confirm that the spare tire 300, housing 10, and rear surround view camera 40 are in the designated installation positions. Then, the installer confirms that the rear view image meets the preset rear view field of view requirements. The image processing controller saves the template images of the four calibration markers, their numbers, and the baseline coordinates of the sixteen feature points in the rear view output image, as well as the image calibration parameters under the baseline state. The baseline coordinates are obtained from the confirmed qualified installation state and are not reset using the current detection results during each automatic calibration.

[0143] This embodiment employs a rear-view camera 40 with factory-installed lens distortion correction information. The image processing controller first processes the original image according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping to obtain a 1920 pixel × 1080 pixel corrected image and its effective pixel area markers, and then performs the field-of-view calibration as described in this embodiment. The size of the rear-view output image is fixed at 1280 pixels × 720 pixels. In the baseline state, the centered rectangular area of ​​the corrected image is selected as the rear-view output area, that is, 320 pixels are removed horizontally from both sides of the corrected image and 180 pixels are removed vertically from the top and bottom of the corrected image to preserve image margin for small-range translation, rotation, and proportional scaling.

[0144] The currently valid image calibration parameters represent the mapping from the image coordinates after fixed distortion correction to the coordinates of the rear-view output image. The parameters corresponding to the centering and cropping mentioned above are used when establishing the reference information. After successful automatic calibration, the currently valid image calibration parameters can be updated, but the size of the rear-view output image and the confirmed reference coordinates remain unchanged. If the reference information is not yet stored in the parameter memory, or if the reference information does not match the camera number or output resolution, the image processing controller outputs a prompt, requiring the establishment of reference information first, and prohibiting the use of an unconfirmed current image as the automatic calibration target. In this embodiment, the preset rear-view field of view corresponds to the confirmed reference rear-view output area and the position of the vehicle body reference features within it. During automatic calibration, the rear-view output image is evaluated based on the effective pixel coverage and feature point deviation. The evaluation is used to determine the adjustment results of the image position, orientation, and scale, and does not equate the alignment of the vehicle body reference features with the restoration of the projection relationships of objects at all distances.

[0145] Rear surround view camera automatic calibration process: Step S1, determine calibration trigger conditions and execution conditions. When the image processing controller detects that the camera communication link changes from a disconnected state to a connected state and can receive a valid image, it determines that the rear surround view camera 40 has re-established an electrical connection; when the installer confirms on the maintenance interface that the tailgate storage box 100 has been reinstalled, the image processing controller receives the reinstallation completion signal; the camera calibration command issued by the maintenance interface also serves as a calibration trigger signal. After any of the above calibration trigger signals occur, the image processing controller records the state to be calibrated, and only starts executing subsequent calibration steps when the effective vehicle speed information is zero and the door lock status continuously indicates that the tailgate 200 is closed for 1 second. If the execution conditions are not met, the state to be calibrated is retained and the driver is prompted to stop and close the tailgate 200.

[0146] Step S2: Acquire and identify the current rear view image. The image processing controller receives the image currently captured by the rear-view camera 40, processes it first according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then processes the distortion-corrected image according to the currently valid image calibration parameters to obtain the current rear view image. The image is positioned with the upper left corner as the origin, the horizontal direction to the right as the x-axis increase direction, and the vertical direction downwards as the y-axis increase direction. The image processing controller establishes a search area near the reference positions of each calibration marker and performs normalized correlation matching between the current rear view image and the corresponding template. The search area extends outwards by 80 pixels relative to the reference template, and the template is matched according to a scale of 0.90 to 1.10, a scale step of 0.01, and an angle step of -5 degrees to +5 degrees, 0.5 degrees. The corresponding position with the highest correlation score is selected, and then the positioning is refined within the adjacent pixels of the optimal position. The corner points of the outer border of the template after matching transformation are used as the coordinates of the current feature points.

[0147] In this embodiment, a matching score of at least 0.90, identical identifier numbers, and unique corresponding positions are used as valid matching conditions. Multiple similar responses generated by the same calibration identifier are not used to replace different calibration identifiers. When all four calibration identifiers are valid, a one-to-one correspondence is established between the sixteen current feature points and their corresponding reference coordinates. If any calibration identifier fails to match reliably, no candidate image calibration parameters are generated. Instead, a calibration anomaly message indicating occlusion, contamination, or unrecognizable calibration identifier is output, and updating the currently valid image calibration parameters is prohibited.

[0148] In one optional implementation, after completing the feature recognition in step S2, the image processing controller continuously acquires five rear view images at a sampling frequency of 10 frames per second, while the vehicle remains stationary and the tailgate 200 remains closed. Each frame is processed using the same fixed lens distortion correction mapping and currently valid image calibration parameters. The corresponding feature point coordinates of the same set of preset vehicle body reference features are extracted from the five rear view images. For each corresponding feature point, its median horizontal coordinate and median vertical coordinate are determined, and the median horizontal coordinate and the median vertical coordinate form the median coordinate of the corresponding feature point. The two-dimensional Euclidean distance between the feature point coordinates and the corresponding median coordinates in each frame is calculated, and the ratio of the maximum value of the two-dimensional Euclidean distance to the diagonal length of the rear view image is taken as the inter-frame fluctuation. In this embodiment, the preset stability threshold is 0.001. When the inter-frame fluctuation is not greater than the preset stability threshold, the median coordinates of each corresponding feature point are used as the current feature point coordinates for step S3. When the inter-frame fluctuation is greater than the preset stability threshold, the image processing controller outputs an installation stability abnormality warning, prohibits the generation or updating of image calibration parameters based on the current acquisition results, and prompts the user to check whether the tailgate storage box 100, camera mounting bracket 44, and rear surround view camera 40 are loose. This reduces the possibility of instantaneous image shifts caused by vehicle residual vibration, tailgate shaking, or loose camera installation being mistaken for stable installation deviations. If a complete feature point correspondence cannot be established in any frame, the current calibration is stopped, a calibration abnormality warning is output, and the currently valid image calibration parameters are maintained.

[0149] Step S3: Calculate the field of view deviation. For each valid feature point, calculate the two-dimensional Euclidean distance between the current coordinates of the feature point and the corresponding reference coordinates. Take the maximum value among the sixteen two-dimensional Euclidean distances, and then divide it by the diagonal length of the rearview output image to obtain the dimensionless field of view deviation. The first deviation threshold is 0.003, the second deviation threshold is 0.030, and the preset verification threshold is 0.002. For a 1280 pixel × 720 pixel rearview output image, these three thresholds correspond to maximum feature point position deviations of approximately 4.4 pixels, 44.1 pixels, and 2.9 pixels, respectively. The above thresholds are used for image calibration judgment in this embodiment and are not used as vehicle regulatory field of view qualification judgment values.

[0150] Step S4: Determine the processing method based on the field-of-view deviation. When the field-of-view deviation is not greater than the first deviation threshold, maintain the currently valid image calibration parameters and end the calibration. When the field-of-view deviation is greater than the second deviation threshold, the display prompt unit outputs an installation abnormality prompt, prompting the user to check the fixing positions of the tailgate storage box 100 and the spare tire 300, as well as the installation direction of the rear surround view camera 40, and prohibiting the use of the current detection results to update the currently valid image calibration parameters.

[0151] When the field of view deviation is greater than the first deviation threshold but not greater than the second deviation threshold, the image processing controller proceeds to candidate parameter calculation. Based on the correspondence of sixteen sets of feature points, the image processing controller determines a two-dimensional similarity transformation that minimizes the sum of the squared distances between each current feature point and its corresponding reference coordinates after transformation. This similarity transformation includes image translation, image rotation, and proportional image scaling, but excludes perspective transformation, non-proportional stretching, or mirror reflection.

[0152] Step S5: Generate candidate image calibration parameters. Calculate the mean coordinates of the current feature point set and the reference feature point set, and subtract the corresponding mean coordinate from each coordinate to form a centered coordinate system. Determine the rotation angle using the sum of the inner product and the sum of the two-dimensional cross products between the two sets of centered coordinates. Determine the proportional scaling factor using the sum of the inner product of the two rotated sets of coordinates and the sum of the squares of the current centered coordinates. Finally, determine the translation amount based on the mean of the two sets of coordinates. If the spacing between the current feature points is too small, the sum of the squares of the centered coordinates is insufficient for stable calculation, the proportional scaling factor is not positive, or the calculation result is invalid, stop the calibration, output a calibration error message, and prohibit updating the currently valid image calibration parameters.

[0153] The image processing controller synthesizes the determined similarity transformation with the currently valid image calibration parameters according to the sequential mapping relationship, obtaining candidate image calibration parameters from the image after fixed distortion correction to the target back-view output image. The image processing controller saves the image calibration parameters before calibration as backoff parameters and temporarily stores the candidate image calibration parameters in the working storage area, without overwriting the confirmed currently valid image calibration parameters.

[0154] Step S6: Check whether the effective pixel area covers the required sampling area. For a target output area of ​​1280 pixels × 720 pixels, the image processing controller performs inverse coordinate mapping according to the candidate image calibration parameters to determine the sampling position of each output pixel in the current acquired image after fixed distortion correction. When using bilinear interpolation, it is also checked whether the adjacent sampling pixels involved in the interpolation are all located within the effective pixel area. If the required sampling position of any output pixel exceeds the boundary of the current acquired image or falls into the invalid pixel area, it is determined that the effective pixel area does not cover the sampling area required to generate the preset back view field of view. The candidate image calibration parameters are then discarded, a calibration error message is output, and updating the currently effective image calibration parameters is prohibited.

[0155] When the effective pixel area covers the required sampling area, the image processing controller generates a calibrated rear view image according to the candidate image calibration parameters. This processing is used to make minor adjustments to the display position, orientation, and scale within the existing effective content range of the currently acquired image. It is not used to change the actual shooting position of the rear surround view camera 40, nor to fill in missing fields of view by blackening, copying edges, or generating image content.

[0156] Step S7: Verify the candidate image calibration parameters. With the vehicle stationary and the tailgate 200 closed, the image processing controller acquires five newly captured images from the rear-view camera 40 at a sampling frequency of 10 frames per second. These images are processed according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then the distortion-corrected five frames are processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain five verification rear-view images. In each verification rear-view image, four calibration markers are re-matched, sixteen feature points are extracted, and the residual deviation of that frame is determined using the same calculation method as the field-of-view deviation in step S3. The maximum value of the residual deviations among the five frames is then used as the residual deviation for this calibration.

[0157] After five frames of verification, if all four calibration markers can be effectively identified and the residual calibration deviation is not greater than the preset verification threshold, the candidate image calibration parameters are written into the candidate record area of ​​the parameter memory. At the same time, the camera number, output resolution, calibration time, and verification value are recorded. After confirming that the writing is complete, the valid record flag is switched so that the candidate image calibration parameters become the new currently valid image calibration parameters, while the reference coordinates and reference template remain unchanged.

[0158] If the calibration residual deviation exceeds the preset verification threshold, any verified rear view image fails to effectively identify the four calibration markers, the vehicle begins to move, the tailgate 200 is no longer closed, or parameter writing fails, the candidate image calibration parameters will not be confirmed as the new currently valid image calibration parameters. Instead, the image calibration parameters before calibration will be used, and a calibration error message will be output. Restoring the image calibration parameters before calibration is only to avoid invalid parameters being overwritten and does not mean that the parameters will necessarily meet the preset rear view field of view requirements after this disassembly and reassembly. The calibration error message will remain until the installation check is completed and valid calibration is passed.

[0159] Before installation, verify that the shape of the spare tire 300's wheel hub, the position of the bolt holes 312, and the specifications of the nut post 210 are compatible with the tailgate storage box 100, and confirm that the bearing contact surfaces of the wheel hub 310 and the nut post 210 are intact. Use an independent support fixture to hold the spare tire 300 in a position corresponding to the installation position of the tailgate 200, to avoid removing all fasteners at the same time if the spare tire 300 loses its support.

[0160] First, after completing the pre-installation of the surround-view camera 40, wiring harness 41, and three waterproof silicone pads outside the housing 10, the wiring harness 41 is passed sequentially through the first wire through hole 342, the second wire through hole 351, and the third wire through hole 361, forming a waterproof sealant layer 42 between the hole walls and the outer sheath of the wiring harness 41. The three waterproof silicone pads are then inserted into their predetermined positions within the mounting channel 31, and the limiting ring 39 is installed, ensuring an interference fit between each elastic sealing part 341 and the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column 30. The rear surround-view camera 40 is then installed on the camera mounting base 44 according to the correspondence between the directional positioning part and the directional positioning mating part, and the elastic damping member 45 is installed between the camera mounting base 44 and the hollow column 30. After the sealant reaches the specified curing state, the vehicle side connector is assembled, and the wiring harness fixing clip 43 is secured.

[0161] Subsequently, it was confirmed that the support bracket 50 was connected to the housing 10 by connecting screws, the rigid support sleeve 60 was inserted into each mounting through hole 121, and the annular elastic seal 62 was located in the corresponding annular groove 603. The six elastic preloads 14 were respectively installed on the six radial positioning ribs 13, and the housing 10 was inserted into the inner cavity of the hub 310 along the depth direction, so that each elastic preload 14 was compressed between the corresponding radial positioning rib 13 and the inner peripheral wall of the hub 310.

[0162] Align the fastening holes 51 on the support bracket 50, the inner hole of the rigid support sleeve 60, the bolt holes 312 on the wheel hub 310, and the nut post 210 on the tailgate 200 in sequence, and ensure that each second support end 602 contacts the mounting part 311. Insert the three fastening bolts 61 in sequence and screw them into the corresponding nut post 210, pre-tightening them one by one, and then alternately tightening them to the torque specified for the vehicle. After tightening, check whether both ends of each rigid support sleeve 60 are in contact with the support bracket 50 and the mounting part 311 respectively, and confirm that the reserved gap between the bottom wall 12 and the support bracket 50 and the mounting part 311 still exists. Do not forcibly eliminate the assembly gap caused by the mismatch of component dimensions by continuing to increase the tightening torque.

[0163] After tightening the connections, remove the independent support fixture and check if the housing 10 is noticeably loose. Check the opening and water passage space between the elastic one-way drainage component 70 and the hub 310, and check the routing of the wiring harness 41 to ensure that it avoids the crimping area of ​​the hub 310, the movement area of ​​the hinge, and the low-lying area of ​​the outer space of the housing. Connect the wiring harness 41 to the camera electrical connection interface and ensure that the camera electrical connection interface is in the specified waterproof installation condition.

[0164] Fix the connector 83 to the selected installation position, and install the first partition 81 and the second partition 82 respectively, confirming that the inner and outer ends of the two partitions are at the same corresponding depth. Check that the movement positions of the water collection part 122, the drain hole 123, and the latch 22 are not obstructed by the first partition 81, the second partition 82, or the stored items. Close the cover 20 and lock the latch 22, so that the first annular sealing strip 16 and the second annular sealing strip 47 are pressed into their corresponding positions, and after confirming that the camera opening 23 is not obstructed, survey the camera 40.

[0165] Finally, with the vehicle stationary and the tailgate 200 closed, the automatic calibration process is triggered by the signal indicating the re-establishment of electrical connection or the completion of reinstallation via the rear surround view camera 40. The image processing controller processes the images captured by the rear surround view camera 40 sequentially according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping and the currently valid image calibration parameters, obtaining the current rear view image and extracting the feature point coordinates of preset vehicle body reference features: If there are insufficient feature points, a calibration error message is output; if the field of view deviation is not greater than the first deviation threshold, the currently valid image calibration parameters are maintained; if the field of view deviation is within the allowable range for automatic calibration and the effective pixel area covers the required sampling area, automatic calibration and calibration verification are performed; if the field of view deviation is greater than the second deviation threshold, an installation error message is output; if the effective pixel area coverage is insufficient or the calibration verification fails, a calibration error message is output and the image calibration parameters before calibration are restored. After completing the mechanical connection check and the rear view image passes the corresponding field of view deviation check or calibration verification, the installation check ends.

Claims

1. A tailgate storage box for a car, for being fitted into the inner cavity of a spare tire hub mounted on the outside of the tailgate, the spare tire comprising a hub and a tire fitted around the outer circumference of the hub, the tailgate being provided with a nut post for mounting the spare tire, characterized in that: The car tailgate storage box includes a box body, a cover, a hollow column, a rear surround view camera, a support bracket, and a rigid support sleeve. A storage cavity is formed inside the box body. The cover is rotatably connected to the box body and is used to open or close the storage cavity. The hollow column is disposed in the middle of the storage cavity and extends along the depth direction of the box. An installation channel is formed inside the hollow column and is isolated from the storage cavity. The installation channel has a first port near the bottom wall of the box and a second port facing the cover. The rear surround view camera is disposed at the second port. The cover has a camera opening corresponding to the rear surround view camera in the closed state. The bottom wall of the box body is provided with an installation through hole, the rigid bearing sleeve passes through the installation through hole, the bearing bracket is disposed in the storage cavity and connected to the box body, one end of the rigid bearing sleeve abuts against the bearing bracket, and the other end abuts directly against the mounting part of the wheel hub or abuts against it through a rigid gasket; The fastening bolts pass sequentially through the bolt holes on the bearing bracket, the rigid bearing sleeve, and the hub, and are threadedly connected to the nut. The mounting portion of the bearing bracket, the rigid bearing sleeve, and the hub forms a rigid load transmission path that bears the axial clamping load of the fastening bolts. The bottom wall of the box does not serve as an axial pressure-bearing interlayer in the rigid load transmission path. The outer periphery of the box body is provided with a plurality of radially positioned portions arranged at intervals along the circumference. At least some of the radially positioned portions are provided with elastic pre-tightening members. When the box body is embedded in the inner cavity of the wheel hub, the elastic pre-tightening members are compressed between the corresponding radially positioned portions and the inner circumferential wall of the wheel hub to apply radial pre-tightening force to the box body.

2. The automobile tailgate storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rigid bearing sleeve has a first bearing end facing the storage cavity and a second bearing end facing the hub, the first bearing end and the second bearing end respectively extending out of the two sides of the bottom wall of the box along the axial direction of the rigid bearing sleeve; The first bearing end abuts against the bearing bracket, and the second bearing end abuts directly against the mounting part of the wheel hub or abuts against it through the rigid gasket; An annular elastic seal is provided between the outer peripheral wall of the rigid bearing sleeve and the wall of the mounting through hole.

3. The automobile tailgate storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The radial positioning part is a radial positioning rib provided on the outer peripheral wall of the box, and the elastic preload is detachably provided on at least part of the radial positioning rib facing the inner peripheral wall of the hub; When the housing and the hub are in the predetermined assembly position, the radial thickness of the elastic preload protruding from the corresponding radial positioning rib toward the inner peripheral wall of the hub in the free state is greater than the radial distance between the radial positioning rib and the inner peripheral wall of the hub.

4. The automobile tailgate storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The installation channel is provided with a first waterproof silicone sheet, a second waterproof silicone sheet and a third waterproof silicone sheet at intervals along the direction from the second port toward the first port; Each of the waterproof silicone sheets has an elastic sealing part on its outer periphery that is interference-fitted with the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column; The first waterproof silicone sheet, the second waterproof silicone sheet, and the third waterproof silicone sheet are respectively provided with a first wire passage hole, a second wire passage hole, and a third wire passage hole. The wire harness of the rear surround view camera passes through the first wire passage hole, the second wire passage hole, and the third wire passage hole in sequence. The diameter of each wire passage hole in the free state is smaller than the outer diameter of the wire harness at the corresponding insertion position, so that the hole wall of each wire passage hole elastically abuts against the outer periphery of the wire harness. A waterproof sealant layer is provided between the wall of at least one of the wire-passing holes and the outer periphery of the wire harness; A first waterproof buffer cavity is formed between the first waterproof silicone sheet and the second waterproof silicone sheet, and a second waterproof buffer cavity is formed between the second waterproof silicone sheet and the third waterproof silicone sheet. The first waterproof buffer cavity and the second waterproof buffer cavity are separated by the second waterproof silicone sheet.

5. The automobile tailgate storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The box body is provided with a water collection part located at the lower part of the storage cavity when the car tailgate storage box is installed. The water collection part is provided with a drain hole that penetrates the bottom wall of the box body. The space in the inner cavity of the wheel hub located outside the box body is the outer space of the box body. The outer end of the drain hole is connected to the outer space of the box body. The drain hole is provided with an elastic one-way drain element, which is configured to allow water to flow from the water collection part through the drain hole to the outer space of the box, and restrict the water from flowing in the opposite direction; When the pressure exerted on the elastic one-way drainage component by the water collection part is higher than the pressure exerted on the elastic one-way drainage component by the outer space of the box, and the difference between the two reaches a preset opening pressure difference, the elastic one-way drainage component elastically deforms and makes the drainage hole open. When the pressure on one side of the outer space of the box is greater than the pressure on the side of the water collection part, the elastic one-way drainage member is pressed in the direction of closing the drainage hole to restrict the backflow of water in the outer space of the box into the storage cavity.

6. The automobile tailgate storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The storage cavity is provided with a layered assembly, which includes a first partition and a second partition respectively disposed on opposite sides of the hollow column; The first partition and the second partition are respectively detachably supported at one end near the hollow column by a connecting seat provided on the outer periphery of the hollow column, and respectively detachably supported at one end away from the hollow column by the inner peripheral wall of the box. The hollow column has at least two spaced installation positions along the depth direction of the box, and the connecting seat can be selectively installed in one of the installation positions. The inner peripheral wall of the box has partition support positions corresponding to each of the installation positions.

7. The automobile tailgate storage box according to claim 1, characterized in that: A camera mounting bracket is provided at the second port, and the rear surround view camera is mounted on the camera mounting bracket; An elastic damping component is provided between the camera mounting base and the hollow column, and the camera mounting base and the hollow column are circumferentially limited. The camera mounting base is provided with a directional positioning part, and the rear surround view camera is provided with a directional positioning mating part that cooperates with the directional positioning part, so as to restrict the rear surround view camera from rotating relative to the camera mounting base around its optical axis; The box body has a first annular sealing strip around the storage cavity at the open end, and a second annular sealing strip around the rear surround-view camera at the second port. When the cover is closed, the first annular sealing strip is pressed between the opening end of the box and the cover, and the second annular sealing strip is pressed between the periphery of the second port and the periphery of the camera opening of the cover.

8. An automatic calibration method for a rear-view camera in a car tailgate storage box, wherein the car tailgate storage box is embedded in the inner cavity of the spare tire hub installed on the outside of the car tailgate, the car tailgate storage box includes a box body, a cover, a hollow column, a rear-view camera, a support bracket and a rigid support sleeve, the cover is rotatably connected to the box body, the hollow column forms an installation channel that is isolated from the storage cavity of the box body, the rear-view camera is disposed at the port of the installation channel facing the cover, and the cover has a camera opening corresponding to the rear-view camera in the closed state; The support bracket is disposed in the storage cavity and connected to the box body. The rigid support sleeve passes through the mounting through hole in the bottom wall of the box body. One end of the rigid support sleeve abuts against the support bracket, and the other end abuts directly against the mounting part of the wheel hub or abuts through a rigid washer. The fastening bolt passes through the bolt holes on the support bracket, the rigid support sleeve and the wheel hub in sequence, and is threadedly connected to the nut on the tailgate of the car. The support bracket, the rigid support sleeve and the mounting part of the wheel hub form a rigid load transmission path that bears the axial clamping load of the fastening bolt. The bottom wall of the box body does not serve as an axial bearing layer in the rigid load transmission path. The outer periphery of the box body is provided with a plurality of radially positioned portions arranged at intervals along the circumference, and at least some of the radially positioned portions are provided with elastic pre-tightening members, which are compressed between the corresponding radially positioned portions and the inner peripheral wall of the hub. The method is executed by an image processing controller connected to the rear surround-view camera, characterized in that... Includes the following steps: In response to at least one of the following calibration trigger conditions: re-establishing electrical connection of the rear surround view camera, receiving a reinstallation completion signal of the tailgate storage box, or receiving a camera calibration command, when the vehicle is stationary and the tailgate is closed, the image currently captured by the rear surround view camera is acquired, the image is processed according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then the distortion-corrected image is processed according to the currently valid image calibration parameters to obtain the current rear view image. The preset vehicle body reference features in the current rear view image are identified, and the feature point coordinates of the preset vehicle body reference features are extracted. The preset vehicle body reference features are vehicle body outline features that maintain a fixed positional relationship with the vehicle body and are located within the field of view of the rear surround view camera, or calibration marks set on the vehicle body. If fewer than two feature points are extracted that are different in location and correspond to the pre-stored reference coordinates, a calibration error message will be output, and the current valid image calibration parameters will be prohibited from being updated using the current detection results. When at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates are extracted, the coordinates of each feature point are compared with the corresponding reference coordinates to determine the field of view deviation. The reference coordinates are the coordinates of the corresponding feature points obtained under the reference state where the vehicle is stationary, the tailgate is closed, and the rear view image meets the preset rear view field of view requirements. When the field of view deviation is not greater than the first deviation threshold, the currently valid image calibration parameters are maintained. When the field of view deviation is greater than the first deviation threshold and not greater than the second deviation threshold, the candidate image calibration parameters are determined according to the feature point coordinates and the corresponding reference coordinates, and it is determined whether the effective pixel area of ​​the current acquired image after distortion correction covers the sampling area required to generate the preset back field of view according to the candidate image calibration parameters. When the effective pixel area covers the sampling area, the distortion-corrected current acquired image is processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain the calibrated rear view image. When the effective pixel area does not cover the sampling area, a calibration error message is output, and the current effective image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the current detection result; When the field of view deviation exceeds the second deviation threshold, an installation error message is output, and the current valid image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the current detection result. Wherein, the first deviation threshold is less than the second deviation threshold.

9. The automatic calibration method for the rear surround view camera of the car tailgate storage box according to claim 8, characterized in that: The field of view deviation is the ratio of the maximum value of the two-dimensional Euclidean distance between the coordinates of each feature point and the corresponding reference coordinates to the diagonal length of the current rear view image. Based on the feature point coordinates and the corresponding reference coordinates, similarity transformation parameters are determined to transform the current rear view image to the rear view image in the reference state. The similarity transformation parameters include image translation parameters, image rotation parameters, and image scaling parameters. The similarity transformation parameters are then combined with the currently effective image calibration parameters to obtain the candidate image calibration parameters. After obtaining the calibrated rear view image according to the candidate image calibration parameters, the newly acquired image from the rear surround view camera is obtained, the newly acquired image is processed according to the fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then the newly acquired image after distortion correction is processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain the verification rear view image. Extract the feature point coordinates of the preset vehicle body reference feature from the verified rear view image. When at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates are extracted, determine the calibration residual deviation in the same calculation method as the field deviation. When the calibration residual deviation is not greater than the preset verification threshold, the candidate image calibration parameters are stored as new currently valid image calibration parameters; When the calibration residual deviation is greater than the preset verification threshold, or when at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates cannot be extracted from the verified image, the candidate image calibration parameters are not confirmed as new currently valid image calibration parameters, the image calibration parameters before calibration are restored, and a calibration error message is output. Wherein, the preset verification threshold is not greater than the first deviation threshold.

10. A method for installing a car tailgate storage box, the car tailgate storage box comprising a box body, a cover rotatably connected to the box body, a hollow column, a rear surround view camera, a support bracket, a rigid support sleeve, and an elastic pre-tightening member, wherein the hollow column forms an installation channel isolated from the storage cavity of the box body, the support bracket is disposed in the storage cavity and connected to the box body, and the outer periphery of the box body is provided with a plurality of radially spaced radial positioning portions, at least a portion of the radial positioning portions being provided with the elastic pre-tightening member, characterized in that... Includes the following steps: The wiring harness of the rear surround view camera is sequentially passed through the wire holes of the first, second, and third waterproof silicone sheets, so that the wall of each wire hole elastically abuts against the outer periphery of the wiring harness, and a waterproof sealant layer is formed between the wall of at least one wire hole and the outer periphery of the wiring harness; the three waterproof silicone sheets are sequentially and spaced apart in the mounting channel from the port of the faceplate to the port near the bottom wall of the housing, so that the elastic sealing part of the outer periphery of each waterproof silicone sheet is interference-fitted with the inner peripheral wall of the hollow column, and the rear surround view camera is installed at the port of the mounting channel facing the faceplate; The housing is inserted into the inner cavity of the spare tire hub located on the outside of the car tailgate, so that the elastic preload is compressed between the corresponding radial positioning part and the inner peripheral wall of the hub. One end of the rigid bearing sleeve passing through the bottom wall of the housing abuts against the bearing bracket, and the other end abuts directly against the mounting part of the hub or abuts through a rigid gasket. The fastening holes on the bearing bracket, the inner hole of the rigid bearing sleeve, the bolt holes on the hub, and the nut post on the car tailgate are aligned. The fastening bolts are passed sequentially through the fastening hole, the inner hole of the rigid bearing sleeve, and the bolt hole, and are threadedly connected to the nut post, so that the bearing bracket, the rigid bearing sleeve, and the mounting part of the hub form a rigid load transmission path that bears the axial clamping load. The bottom wall of the box body does not serve as an axial pressure-bearing interlayer in the rigid load transmission path. The wiring harness is connected to the vehicle's camera electrical connection interface. When the rear surround view camera establishes an electrical connection and the vehicle is stationary with the tailgate closed, the image processing controller connected to the rear surround view camera acquires the image currently captured by the rear surround view camera, processes the image according to a fixed lens distortion correction mapping, and then processes the distortion-corrected image according to the currently valid image calibration parameters to obtain the current rear view image. The feature point coordinates of the preset vehicle body reference features are extracted from the current rear view image. If fewer than two feature points are extracted that are different in location and correspond to the pre-stored reference coordinates, a calibration error message will be output, and the current valid image calibration parameters will be prohibited from being updated using the current detection results. When at least two feature points with different positions and corresponding to the reference coordinates are extracted, the coordinates of each feature point are compared with the corresponding reference coordinates to determine the field deviation relative to the preset back view field of view. When the field of view deviation is not greater than the first deviation threshold, the currently valid image calibration parameters are maintained. When the field of view deviation is greater than the first deviation threshold and not greater than the second deviation threshold, the candidate image calibration parameters are determined according to the feature point coordinates and the corresponding reference coordinates, and it is determined whether the effective pixel area of ​​the current acquired image after distortion correction covers the sampling area required to generate the preset back field of view according to the candidate image calibration parameters. When the effective pixel area covers the sampling area, the distortion-corrected current acquired image is processed according to the candidate image calibration parameters to obtain the calibrated rear view image. When the effective pixel area does not cover the sampling area, a calibration error message is output, and the current effective image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the current detection result; When the field of view deviation exceeds the second deviation threshold, an installation error message is output, and the current valid image calibration parameters are prohibited from being updated using the current detection result. The preset vehicle body reference feature is a vehicle body outline feature that maintains a fixed positional relationship with the vehicle body and is located within the field of view of the rear surround view camera, or a calibration mark set on the vehicle body; the reference coordinates are the coordinates of the corresponding feature points obtained under the reference state that the vehicle is stationary, the tailgate is closed, and the rear view image meets the preset rear view field of view requirements; the first deviation threshold is less than the second deviation threshold.

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