VEHICLE IMAGE SYSTEM, CAMERA SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM AND VEHICLE

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a vehicle imaging system for a vehicle (102), comprising at least one image data acquisition unit (100) configured for mounting on the exterior of the vehicle (102). The at least one image data acquisition unit (100) comprises at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) with at least one first lens (104) that is at least partially coated with an infrared (IR) filter. The system further comprises an electronic control unit (ECU), which is in particular located within the vehicle. The ECU comprises an image data processor configured to process image data acquired by the at least one image data acquisition unit (100). At least one infrared (IR) LED device (108) is located inside the vehicle (102) and configured to emit IR radiation.The IR filter of the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) is transparent to IR radiation emitted by the IR LED device (108). Furthermore, the disclosure relates to a camera surveillance system and a vehicle with at least one such vehicle imaging system.

Description

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle imaging system for a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a camera surveillance system and a vehicle with at least one such vehicle imaging system. Automotive technologies that enable autonomous or semi-autonomous operation, commonly referred to as "self-driving" or "assisted driving," are rapidly evolving and being integrated into both commercial and private vehicles. These systems rely on camera technology to monitor the vehicle's movement and its surroundings in real time. Cameras are used to detect various elements in the environment, including the road surface, lane markings, boundaries, other vehicles, pedestrians, obstacles, hazards, signage, and other critical features. It is known to use a filter with an exterior mirror with a camera system when monitoring the surroundings of a vehicle. US7,132,654B2 discloses a device for improving visibility in a motor vehicle, comprising a radiation source for illuminating the vehicle environment with infrared radiation, an infrared-sensitive camera for capturing at least a part of the illuminated vehicle environment, an IR filter associated with and arranged in front of the camera, and a display for showing the image information captured by the camera, wherein different areas of the IR filter area have different transmission properties and wherein at least one area of ​​the IR filter is nearly transparent to visible light or a part thereof. US 11,034,300 B2 discloses a door mirror comprising: a mirror housing provided in a side area of ​​a vehicle body; a camera unit located inside the mirror housing that captures an image of the rear of the vehicle body in the direction of travel; a blocking filter that reduces the amount of light incident on the camera unit;and a heater provided on a surface of the barrier filter on the side of the camera unit and capable of heating the barrier filter, the camera unit being arranged such that a central axis intersects a surface direction of the barrier filter, the camera unit and the heater being arranged adjacent to each other, an opening section in the mirror housing being formed towards the rear in the direction of travel of the vehicle body, the mirror housing comprising a frame body that is fitted into a circumferential edge of the opening section of the mirror housing and into which the barrier filter is fitted, and the opening section being blocked by the barrier filter and the frame body. An image acquisition device for vehicle enhancement is also known from US 11,754,761B1, wherein the image acquisition device comprises: a color filter matrix with a plurality of filter elements, each of the plurality of filter elements corresponding to one of a plurality of pixel sensors of an image sensor, the plurality of filter elements comprising a greater number of yellow filter elements than red filter elements; and a lens system with a spatial frequency response that is enhanced for a green-red spectral range relative to a blue-violet spectral range, wherein the lens system focuses light from a scene through the color filter matrix onto the image sensor. This device is used to identify and read road signs and lane markings, as well as to detect obstacles. US 2022 / 0055540 A1 relates to a camera mirroring system for a vehicle, comprising: a camera with a field of view, wherein the camera includes a lens configured to focus light onto an image capture unit and a filter switch, each arranged in an optical path between the lens and the image capture unit, the filter switch having an infrared (IR) filter that is movable in and out of the optical path in response to an IR filter command; a display that is commensurate with the camera and configured to display the field of view; an IR light-emitting diode (LED) configured to illuminate the field of view in response to an IR LED command;and a controller that communicates with the image acquisition unit, filter switch, and IR LED, the controller being configured to provide the IR filter command and the IR LED command in response to a limited night vision condition based on a factor other than the amount of atmospheric light. In one example, night vision is activated according to US 2022 / 00555540 A1 when the vehicle speed is below a predetermined speed threshold, such as 5 mph, thus improving visibility for the driver during slow maneuvers. In another example, night vision can be activated when reverse gear is detected to provide improved visibility around the trailer while reversing. The need to monitor a person driving a vehicle is an important factor in preventing accidents or breakdowns while driving. A known driver monitoring system is described in CN 211391249U, comprising: a highly transparent polycarbonate sheet, an optical isolation sleeve, and a camera assembly; wherein the highly transparent polycarbonate sheet includes an opaque ink-coated area, an infrared-translucent ink-coated area, and an uncoated area; and one end of the optical isolation sleeve is tightly connected to the edge of the uncoated area, and the other end is fitted over the camera head assembly. From DE 10 2014 224 161 A1, an arrangement for a motor vehicle is known, comprising a sensor configured to receive and / or emit electromagnetic radiation in a predetermined area, a focusing optic configured and arranged to focus the electromagnetic radiation in the predetermined area onto the sensor, and a vehicle component for the motor vehicle that is transparent to the predetermined area of ​​electromagnetic radiation, wherein the focusing optic and the vehicle component are integrated into a single common component. US Patent 2012 / 116,632 A1 describes a system for the automatic control of vehicle equipment, comprising a controller for generating control signals. The control signals are derived based on information obtained from the image sensor, as well as from other detected parameters relating to the detected light source(s), the vehicle with the control system according to the invention, and the environment. The control circuit can easily switch certain vehicle components, such as the exterior lighting, on or off, or change brightness, direction, focus, etc., to generate various light beam patterns that maximize the illuminated area in front of the vehicle without excessively dazzling other drivers. Therefore, conventional cameras used in vehicles are limited to capturing either the external surroundings or the interior, such as the vehicle cabin. Additional cameras are required if both the surroundings and the cabin of a vehicle need to be monitored, making the surveillance system expensive and cumbersome. Accordingly, there is a need to develop a safe and cost-effective imaging system for monitoring the vehicle cabin, which can be used during daylight hours to effectively capture driver behavior while driving. However, during daylight hours, it becomes difficult for external cameras to capture the face of the person sitting in the vehicle due to reflections from the window. Therefore, the objective of the present disclosure is to further develop the known vehicle imaging system for a vehicle in order to overcome, at least partially, the known disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the objective is to develop a system for monitoring attributes of a person driving the vehicle using an external camera during daylight hours. The problem is solved by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1. Embodiments of the vehicle imaging system for a vehicle are described in claims 2 to 15. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle imaging system is disclosed. The system may comprise at least one image data acquisition unit configured to be mounted on the exterior of a vehicle. The at least one image data acquisition unit may comprise at least one first image data acquisition device. The at least one first image data acquisition device may further comprise at least one first lens that is at least partially coated with an infrared (IR) filter. The system may further comprise an electronic control unit (ECU) mounted on the vehicle. The ECU may include an image data processor configured to process image data acquired by the at least one image data acquisition unit. Furthermore, the system may include at least one infrared (IR) LED device configured to emit radiation.The IR LED device can be arranged inside the vehicle (102), and the IR filter, which includes at least one first image data acquisition device, can be transparent to infrared radiation emitted by the IR LED device. The partially coated first lens of the image data acquisition device captures the interior of the cabin during daylight hours through window reflection using the transparent area due to the IR radiation from the IR LED device. The at least one first image data acquisition device comprises at least one first lens tube adapted to receive a first lens. The at least one first lens is configured to capture at least one first field of view (FOV1) for the near range, in order to enable the acquisition of image data of the vehicle interior through a window. In one embodiment, the at least one image data acquisition unit may further comprise a second image data acquisition device with at least one second lens tube adapted to accommodate at least one second lens. The at least one second lens may be configured to capture at least one second field of view (FOV2) for the far range, in order to enable the acquisition of image data of the vehicle's surroundings. In one embodiment, the at least one image data acquisition unit can be arranged on the outside of one of the “A” pillars, the roof, the side and the doors of the vehicle, and the at least one IR LED device can be arranged inside the vehicle on one of the “A” pillars, the display, the dashboard and / or the door of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the at least one first lens coated with an IR filter can be configured to capture an area transparent to the radiation emitted by the IR LED device in order to provide a clear field of view of at least the interior of the vehicle to enable driver and / or passenger monitoring by the ECU. In one embodiment, the first field of view (FOV1) for driver and / or occupant monitoring can be obtained via light reflection on an outer surface of the window, captured by the at least one first image data acquisition device. The first field of view is advantageous for monitoring the attributes of the person driving the vehicle, using at least one first image data acquisition device while driving, and can be preserved against window reflections during daylight hours. In one embodiment, the ECU can be configured to determine attributes such as attention based on changes detected in the face of the person driving the vehicle by the image data processor. The driver's attributes may include, but are not limited to, fatigue, drowsiness, sneezing, drinking, yawning, and / or mobile phone use. In one embodiment, the ECU can be configured to trigger an alarm in the form of an audiovisual announcement and / or haptic feedback to the person driving the vehicle when one of the driver assistance attributes is detected. The at least one first image data acquisition device can capture at least one facial area of ​​the person driving the vehicle for driver monitoring and occupant detection. In one embodiment, the ECU can be configured to prestore at least one first unique identification of at least one authorized person of the vehicle. The at least one second image data acquisition device can be configured to capture at least one image of a person approaching the vehicle in the second field of view (FOV2), and the captured image data can be transmitted to the ECU, and the ECU can further be configured to generate a second unique identification. In one embodiment, the ECU can be configured to compare the second unique identifier with the first unique identifier. The ECU can be configured to allow access to the vehicle for the approaching person if the second unique identifier matches at least one first unique identifier. The advantage of at least one second image data acquisition device is its ability to detect any unauthorized access to the vehicle. This device can detect forced entry and transmit the captured image data to the ECU, which identifies whether the person is authorized or not. In the case of unauthorized access, an alarm is triggered, including a warning message to the authorized person in the vehicle. The at least one first lens of the at least one first image data acquisition device can be coated with at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40% or at least 50% of the IR filter. The vehicle imaging system can further comprise an image sensor connected to both the first and second lenses, wherein preferably the first field of view (FOV1) is projected from the first lens onto a first surface of the image sensor, and the second field of view (FOV2) is projected from the second lens onto a second surface of the image sensor. The surface areas of the first and second areas can be determined by a deflecting mirror, wherein the surface areas of the first and second areas are preferably variable by the deflecting mirror, which is particularly adjustable with respect to its position. Furthermore, the vehicle imaging system can comprise multiple image data acquisition units and / or image sensors, preferably with two or more image data acquisition units and / or image sensors interacting. The present disclosure also relates to a camera surveillance system for a vehicle, comprising at least one vehicle imaging system as described above, wherein at least some of the image data captured by the first and / or second image data acquisition devices can be recorded and / or displayed on at least one monitor. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle with a vehicle imaging system as described above. The foregoing summary is merely exemplary and in no way intended to be limiting. In addition to the exemplary aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. It should be understood that each of the described features and / or embodiments of the disclosure can be used separately or in combination with other disclosed features and / or embodiments. Other aspects, advantages and outstanding features of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which discloses one or more embodiments of the present disclosure only by way of example and is taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which disclose exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, wherein: Fig. 1A shows an exterior view of a vehicle with a vehicle imaging system of an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 1B shows an interior view of the vehicle imaging system of Fig. 1A; Fig. 1C shows another exterior view of the vehicle imaging system of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B; Fig. 2A shows an embodiment of an image data acquisition unit for the vehicle imaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2B shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of the image data acquisition unit shown in Fig. 2A; and Fig. 3 shows a part of the image data acquisition unit of Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B. The drawings mentioned in this description are not to be understood as being to scale unless expressly stated, and such drawings are only exemplary. The aforementioned tasks, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, various modifications can be applied to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure can have different embodiments. Specific embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the drawings, are described in detail below. For explanatory purposes, numerous specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that the present disclosure can also be practiced without these specific details. Descriptions of known components and processing techniques are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used here are intended only to facilitate understanding of the ways in which the embodiments herein can be practiced and to further enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein. A reference in this specification to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of the phrase "in an embodiment" at different points in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor do separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclude other embodiments. Furthermore, various features are described that may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described that may be requirements for some embodiments but not for others. Although the following description includes many specific features for illustrative purposes, any person skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and / or modifications to the details mentioned are within the scope of the present disclosure. Although many of the features of the present disclosure are described in relation to or in conjunction with one another, a person skilled in the art will recognize that many of these features can be provided independently of other features. Accordingly, this description of the present disclosure is given without loss of generality and without imposing any limitations on the present disclosure. If a detailed description of known functions or configurations related to the present disclosure is deemed unnecessary in order to obscure the core of the disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Omitted. Furthermore, numbers (e.g., first, second, etc.) used in the description herein are used solely as identifiers to distinguish one element from another. While the present invention is presented in the context of a four-wheeled vehicle, the support structure and its aspects and features can also be used with other vehicle types such as two-wheeled, three-wheeled, six-wheeled, eight-wheeled, etc. vehicles. In the illustrated embodiments, it should be noted that terms such as "four-wheeled vehicle" and "vehicle" are used interchangeably throughout the description. Fig. 1A shows an external view of a vehicle imaging system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. In this configuration, at least one image data acquisition unit 100 can be arranged on the outside of a vehicle 102 for monitoring and interacting with the vehicle's environment. The image data acquisition unit 100 can comprise several components, including at least one first image data acquisition device 100a and a second image data acquisition device 100b, which together provide a comprehensive imaging solution. The first image data acquisition device 100a is equipped with at least one first lens 104, which is specifically designed to capture a first field of view (FOV1) optimized for close-range observation.In particular, this close-range FOV1 can focus on the interior of the vehicle 102, enabling the monitoring of passenger attributes, ensuring safety, or facilitating assistance functions for a person driving the vehicle 102. In addition, in one embodiment the first lens 104 of the image data acquisition device 100a can be partially coated with an (IR) filter, which improves its ability to capture clear images in poor lighting conditions by filtering out unwanted visible light while allowing infrared wavelengths to pass through. Fig. 1B shows an interior perspective of the vehicle 102, which incorporates the advanced vehicle imaging system previously shown in Fig. 1A. The system enhances the vehicle's capabilities by incorporating at least one infrared (IR) LED device 108, which can serve as a radiation source and is strategically positioned inside the vehicle. The primary function of the IR LED device 108 is to emit infrared radiation toward the person driving the vehicle 102, thus providing improved visibility for the image data acquisition device 100a. This improvement is crucial to ensure that the vehicle imaging system can capture clear and detailed images of the person driving the vehicle 102, enabling functions such as driver monitoring, fatigue detection, and safety assessments.To manage and process the data collected by the vehicle imaging system, the vehicle 102 may be equipped with an electronic control unit (ECU) which may house an image data processor specifically designed to analyze the image data generated by the first image data acquisition device 100a. The processor can interpret the visual information, enabling real-time analysis and response to the person's actions or state. In one embodiment, the system can include two IR LED devices 108 inside the vehicle, which can improve illumination and coverage, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the vehicle imaging system in monitoring the person driving the vehicle 102 and ensuring a safer driving experience. In one embodiment, the IR LED device 108 can be configured to emit infrared (IR) radiation specifically directed at the person driving the vehicle, thereby creating an environment conducive to effective monitoring. This interaction takes place within the first field of view (FOV1), which is the intended area on which the first image data acquisition device 100a can focus. The IR filter on the first lens 104 can be configured to selectively transmit IR wavelengths while filtering out visible light, thus enhancing its ability to capture detailed images when required.The combination of the IR radiation from the LED device 108 and the capabilities of the first image data acquisition device 100a with the IR filter on the first lens 104 can result in a designated clear viewing area 114 in which the face and actions of the person can be observed with exceptional clarity. The clear field of view 114 enables the vehicle imaging system to accurately track the behavior and attributes of the person driving the vehicle 102, such as facial expressions, eye movements, and head position, which are crucial for assessing the person's alertness, fatigue level, and attention. By capturing this biometric and behavioral data, the vehicle imaging system can provide valuable insights and feedback, potentially triggering warnings or interventions if it detects signs of drowsiness or distraction. The synergy between the IR LED device 108 and the first image data acquisition device 100a not only improves the operational effectiveness of the vehicle imaging system but also contributes to broader safety measures. In one embodiment, the first image data acquisition device 100a can acquire image data of the person driving the vehicle 102, and the acquired image data can be transmitted to the ECU. The ECU can further be configured with dedicated algorithms and processing capabilities that enable it to analyze the transmitted image data in real time. The ECU can be configured to extract and determine various attributes of the person driving vehicle 102 from the captured image data. These attributes are crucial for understanding the driver's condition and emotional state. Based on this analysis, the ECU assesses the person's attention while operating vehicle 102. This assessment is primarily facilitated by observing and interpreting changes in the driver's facial expression, which may indicate the degree of concentration, distraction, or drowsiness. By continuously monitoring these facial expression changes, using data captured by the first image data acquisition device 100a, the ECU can provide the driver with real-time feedback or warnings when it detects signs of inattention or fatigue. This advanced monitoring capability not only improves safety by promoting a more attentive driving experience, but also embodies a proactive approach to driver assistance technologies, ultimately contributing to safer roads and a reduction in the likelihood of accidents caused by driver distraction or impairment. In one embodiment, the at least one first lens 104 of the at least one first image data acquisition device 100a can be coated with at least 10% of the IR filter, or at least 20% of the IR filter, or at least 30% of the IR filter, or at least 40% of the IR filter, or at least 50% of the IR filter. Such a partial coating provides an optimal capacity for the at least one first lens 104 to achieve the first field of view FOV1. The first image data acquisition device 100a, with its partially coated first lens 104 featuring an IR filter, plays a crucial role in monitoring and documenting the interior of a vehicle cabin during daylight hours. The IR filter coating on the first lens 104 is strategically placed to optimize its performance by balancing reflection and transmission, ensuring sufficient light is retained while minimizing glare. Additionally, the first lens 104 benefits from the presence of at least one infrared (IR) LED device 108, which emits IR radiation towards the person driving the vehicle 102 to enhance visibility inside the vehicle.The transparent area of ​​the first lens 104 is particularly crucial, as it allows these IR wavelengths to pass through and illuminate the interior of the vehicle 102 in combination with the IR radiation, even in bright daylight that could otherwise impair visibility. This combination of reflective and transparent properties provides a clear and detailed image of the person driving the vehicle 102, thereby improving safety and monitoring capabilities. In one embodiment, the attributes of the person driving the vehicle 102 can include, among others, fatigue, drowsiness, sneezing, yawning, and mobile phone use. The ECU is further configured to trigger a warning alarm to the person when one of these attributes is detected by the image data acquisition device 100a. The warning alarm can be delivered as audiovisual / haptic feedback via the display device in the vehicle 102. Fig. 1C shows another external view of the vehicle imaging system of Figs. 1A and 1B, in which the at least one image data acquisition unit 100 is arranged on the outside of the vehicle 102, comprises the first image data acquisition device 100a, and additionally includes a second image data acquisition device 100b. The second image data acquisition device 100b may have a second lens 106. The second lens 106 may be configured to capture a second field of view (FOV2) for a long-range area. In one embodiment, the FOV2 for the outside of the vehicle 102 may be intended for monitoring the vehicle entrance. In one embodiment, the second image data acquisition device 100b can track the access of a person approaching the vehicle 102. At least one initial unique identification of one or more authenticated persons of the vehicle 102 can be pre-stored in the ECU (not shown in the figure). The at least one initial unique identification can be an image and / or video of the one or more authenticated persons. As the person approaches vehicle 102, the second image data acquisition device 100b can capture image data of the approaching person. The captured image data is transmitted to the ECU, and the ECU can be configured to generate a second unique identifier based on the captured image data. The ECU can then compare the second unique identification with at least one first unique identification of the one or more authenticated persons of the vehicle 102. The ECU can be configured to grant a person access to the interior of vehicle 102 if the second unique identifier matches at least one first unique identifier of one or more authenticated persons. Furthermore, vehicle 102 can be locked by the ECU if the second unique identifier does not match at least one first unique identifier. In one embodiment, a warning message can be generated and sent to one or more authenticated persons of the vehicle 102, along with image data relating to the second unique identification, in the event of unauthorized access to the vehicle 102. The warning message can be in the form of an audio / video alarm or a notification via SMS, MMS, or the like. In one embodiment, an image data acquisition unit 100, as disclosed in the unpublished DE 10 2024 112 387.7, filed on May 2, 2024, can be used in the vehicle imaging system according to the present disclosure by being configured to achieve the objective of monitoring vehicle entry and determining personal attributes. The disclosures of DE 10 2024 112 387.7 are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B. The image data acquisition unit 100 according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B can comprise a first image data acquisition device 100a, a second image data acquisition device 100b, a lens holder 204, an image sensor 120 (as shown in Fig. 3) and a base frame 110, which are attached to one another. In one embodiment, a mirror housing 112 can be formed after the first and second image data acquisition devices 100a, 100b are attached to the base frame 110. The mirror housing 112 can be oriented at a predetermined angle relative to the base frame 110 within the assembly. Furthermore, the predetermined angle can be an acute angle. The first and second image data acquisition devices 100a, 100b can be attached to the base frame 110, with an opposite, second end of the first and second image data acquisition devices 100a, 100b being adapted to support a first and second lens 104, 106, respectively. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the first image data acquisition device 100a can have at least one first lens tube 116 adapted to receive the first lens 104, and the second image data acquisition device 100b can have at least one second lens tube 118 adapted to receive the second lens 106. The lens holder 204 can provide two seats adapted to receive a first lens tube 116 and a second lens tube 118. The first and second lens tubes 116 and 118 can be attached to the lens holder 204 with a UV adhesive. The UV adhesive can be applied to the lens holder 204 and / or the lens tubes 116, 118 during the assembly of the image acquisition unit 100. The UV adhesive enables active image sensor alignment while the adhesive is in an uncured state, meaning that the elements of the image acquisition unit 100 can be positioned as required. This fixation is achieved by active, time-controlled activation and / or curing of the adhesive using light in the UV spectrum. This alignment can include the relative alignment between the first and second lenses 104, 106 and / or a mirror placed in the mirror housing 112, as well as the alignment of these elements relative to the image sensor 120. The alignment of the first and second lenses 104, 106 can be parallel or sequential.Once one or both lens tubes 116, 118 are correctly positioned on the respective seat of the lens holder 204, the adhesive can be activated and / or cured with UV light, thus hardening / finalizing the bond between the lens holder 204 and the lens tubes 116, 118. A first end of the first and second lens tubes 116, 118 can be attached to the lens holder 204, wherein an opposite, second end of the first and second lens tubes 116, 118 can be adapted to carry the first or second lens 104, 106 respectively. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the first lens 104 can be adapted to capture a first field of view (FOV1) for a near range, and the second lens 106 can be adapted to capture a second field of view (FOV2) for a far range. The far range of the second field of view (FOV2) is adapted to capture a portion of the vehicle's surroundings at a greater distance than the near range of the first field of view (FOV1), which can be adapted to capture at least a portion of the vehicle's immediate surroundings. In various embodiments, the first and second fields of view (FOV1 and FOV2) can encompass at least part of ECE R159 MOIS, ECE R151 BSIS, ECE R158, ECE R46, the blind spot area according to ISO 17387, mirror class II area, mirror class IV area, and / or mirror class V area, and / or the SVS area around the camera.The ECE standards refer to the corresponding UN Direct Vision Regulation. According to various designs, the first field of view (FOV1) and the second field of view (FOV2) overlap at least partially or not at all. The first field of view FOV1 can be projected from the first lens 104 onto a first surface 120a of the image transmitter 120 (as shown in Fig. 3), while the second field of view FOV2 can be projected onto a second surface 120b of the image transmitter 120. The optical axis A1 of the first lens 104 can be essentially horizontal and perpendicular to the image sensor 120. The optical axis A2 of the second lens 106 can be inclined. According to various embodiments, the optical axis A2 of the second lens 106 can be inclined towards the cabin of the vehicle 102. The second field of view (FOV2) can be projected directly onto the second surface 120b of the image sensor 120, while the first field of view (FOV1) can be projected onto the first surface 120a of the image sensor 120 by means of a deflecting mirror 122. The ratio of the size of the first surface 120a and the second surface 120b can depend on the required image resolution of the first and second fields of view (FOV1, FOV2). The higher the required resolution, the larger the required surface area on the image sensor 120 for the respective field of view.According to various embodiments, the sizes of the first and second surfaces 120a, 120b can be changed by an adjustable deflecting mirror 122. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B, both the first and second lenses 104, 106 can be equipped with a first and second heating element 200, 202, respectively. The first and second heating elements 200, 202 can be annular and surround the first and second lenses 104, 106 to distribute heat evenly to them. Providing heat can be particularly helpful for removing ice, snow, or water from the first and second lenses 104, 106. According to various embodiments, the heating elements 200, 202 can at least partially provide the fastening between the lens tube 116, 118 and the lens 104, 106. Additionally, the fastening of the lens 104, 106 to the lens tube 116, 118 can preferably be sealed. According to the embodiment of the image data acquisition unit 100 shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the first and second lenses 104, 106 and the lens tubes 116, 118 can be stationary relative to the lens holder 204. In other embodiments, at least one lens 104, 106 and / or one lens tube 116, 118 can also be movable relative to each other and / or to the lens holder 204 after activation of the UV adhesive, for example, via a hinge. In yet another embodiment, the lens holder 204 can be movable relative to the image sensor 120 in order to change at least one field of view FOV1, FOV2 and / or to change at least one surface 120a, 120b of the image sensor 120. The image data acquisition unit 100 of Figures 2A and 2B can be part of a system comprising multiple image data acquisition units 100 and / or image sensors 120. In such a system with more than one image data acquisition unit 100 and / or image sensor 120, two or more image data acquisition units 100 and / or image sensors 120 can interact. In another embodiment, the image data from two or more image sensors 120 are read, transmitted, displayed, analyzed, and / or at least partially processed jointly by such an image data acquisition unit 100. The system and / or the image sensor 120 of Figures 2A and 2B and / or the aforementioned image data acquisition unit 100 can also be part of a camera surveillance system, wherein at least a portion of the recorded image data from at least one image sensor 120 can be displayed on at least one monitor. The image data acquisition unit 100 according to the embodiment of Figs. 2A and 2B can be adapted to be mounted on a vehicle 102 as described in Figs. 1A to 1C. In particular, this vehicle can be in the form of a truck, and especially a truck with at least one attached trailer. Fig. 3 shows a detailed view of the mirror 122, which is inserted into the mirror housing 112 and coupled to an image sensor 120. This arrangement is designed to improve visibility and situational awareness for vehicles, particularly in complex driving environments. The first lens 104 can be configured to project the first field of view (FOV1) onto a specific first area 120a of the image sensor 120, using an optical axis A1 that can be configured to be substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the image sensor 120. The second lens 106 can project the second field of view (FOV2) onto the second area 120b of the image sensor 120, using an inclined optical axis A2. This inclination allows for greater versatility in monitoring the surroundings, as it can be directed towards the ground, the side of the vehicle, or even the rear of the vehicle or its attached trailer.Such a configuration not only expands the field of vision, but also helps to eliminate blind spots and thus contributes to increased safety. In one embodiment, the ratio of the size of the first area 120a and the second area 120b can depend on the required image resolution of the first and second fields of view FOV1, FOV2. The higher the required resolution, the larger the area required on the image sensor 120 for the respective field of view. According to various embodiments, the area sizes of the first and second areas 120a, 120b can be changed by means of an adjustable deflecting mirror 122. As described above, although the embodiments are described by the limited embodiments and the drawings, various modifications and changes can be made by those skilled in the art based on the above description. For example, suitable results can be obtained even if the described techniques are carried out in a different order than the described method and / or if components of the described system, structure, apparatus, circuit, etc., are used. Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments of the present disclosure and those equivalent to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims to be described below. Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments of the present disclosure and those equivalent to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims to be described below. REFERENCE MARK LIST 100 Image data acquisition unit 100a First image data acquisition device 100b Second image data acquisition device 102 Vehicle 104 First lens 106 Second lens 108 Infrared LED device 110 Base frame 112 Mirror housing 114 Clear field of view 116 First lens tube 118 Second lens tube 120 Image transmitter 120a First area of ​​image transmitter 120b Second area of ​​image transmitter 122 Mirror 200 First heating elements 202 Second heating elements 204 Lens holder A1 Optical axis of the first lens A2 Optical axis of the second lens FOV1 First field of view FOV2 Second field of view

Claims

A vehicle imaging system for a vehicle (102), the system comprising: • at least one image data acquisition unit (100) configured to be mounted on the outside of a vehicle (102); wherein the at least one image data acquisition unit (100) comprises at least one first image data acquisition device (100a); • an electronic control unit (ECU), in particular arranged in the vehicle (102); and • at least one infrared (IR) LED device (108) configured to emit IR radiation, characterized in that the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) comprises at least one first lens (104) that is at least partially coated with an infrared (IR) filter, wherein the ECU comprises an image data processor configured to process image data acquired by the at least one image data acquisition unit (100);the IR LED device (108) is arranged inside the vehicle (102); the IR filter of the at least one first lens (104) is transparent to IR radiation emitted by the IR LED device (108); and the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) comprises at least one first lens tube (116) adapted to receive the at least one first lens (104), wherein the at least one first lens (104) is configured to capture at least one first field of view (FOV1) for the near range in order to enable the acquisition of image data of the vehicle interior through a vehicle window. The vehicle imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one image data acquisition unit (100) further comprises a second image data acquisition device (100b) with at least one second lens tube (118) adapted to accommodate at least one second lens (106), wherein the at least one second lens (106) is configured to capture at least one second field of view (FOV2) for the far range in order to enable the acquisition of image data of the vehicle environment (102). The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one image data acquisition unit (100) is arranged on the outside of one of the “A” pillars, the roof, the side and the doors of the vehicle; and the at least one IR LED device (108) is arranged inside the vehicle on one of the “A” pillars, the display, the dashboard and / or the doors of the vehicle (102). The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first lens (104), which is at least partially coated with the IR filter, is configured to capture an area which is transparent to the radiations emitted by the IR LED device (108) in order to provide a clear field of view (114) of at least the interior of the vehicle in order to enable driver monitoring and / or occupant monitoring via the ECU. The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first field of view (FOV1) adapted for monitoring the person driving the vehicle (102) and / or an occupant of the vehicle (102) is preserved against light reflection on an outer surface of the window, is captured by the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a). The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) captures at least one facial area of ​​the person driving the vehicle (102) for driver monitoring and / or driver recognition, and / or the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) captures at least one occupant of the vehicle (102) for occupant recognition. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the ECU is configured to determine at least one attribute of the driver based on changes detected on a face of the driver by the image data processed by the image data processor, wherein the at least one attribute of the driver preferably includes attention, fatigue, drowsiness, sneezing, yawning, drinking and / or mobile phone use. The system according to claim 7, wherein the ECU is configured to trigger an alarm, in particular in the form of an audiovisual announcement and / or haptic feedback to the driver, when at least one driver assistance attribute is detected. The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the ECU is configured to prestore at least one first unique identification of at least one authorized person of the vehicle (102), in particular in the form of at least one authorized driver. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the at least one second image data acquisition device (100b) is configured to capture at least one image of a person approaching the vehicle (102) in the second field of view (FOV2), wherein the captured image is transmitted to the ECU, and wherein the ECU is configured to generate a second unique identification. The system according to claim 9 and claim 10, wherein the ECU is configured to compare the second unique identification with the first unique identification, and the ECU is further configured to grant access to the vehicle (102) to the person approaching the vehicle (102) if the second unique identification matches the at least one first unique identification. The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first lens (104) of the at least one first image data acquisition device (100a) is coated to at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40% or at least 50% of the IR filter. The system according to one of claims 2 to 12, characterized by an image sensor (120) which is connected to both the first lens (104) and the second lens (106), wherein preferably the first field of view (FOV1) is projected from the first lens (104) onto a first surface (120a) of the image sensor (120) and the second field of view (FOV2) is projected from the second lens (106) onto a second surface (120b) of the image sensor (120). The system according to claim 13, wherein the surface areas of the first and second regions (120a, 120b) are determined by a deflecting mirror (122), wherein the surface areas of the first and second regions (120a, 120b) are preferably variable, since the deflecting mirror (122) is adjustable, in particular with regard to its position. The system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises multiple image data acquisition units (100) and / or image sensors (120), wherein preferably two or more image data acquisition units (100) and / or image sensors (120) interact. A camera surveillance system for a vehicle (102) comprising at least one vehicle imaging system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the image data captured by the first and / or second image data acquisition devices (100a, 100b) is recorded and / or displayed on at least one monitor. A vehicle (102) with the vehicle imaging system according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the vehicle (102) is preferably in the form of a truck.

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