CAMERA VISION GUIDE AND VEHICLE WITH SUCH A

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a camera light shield may comprise: a camera mount (100), a base plate (200) having an upper edge (210) connected to a lower section of the camera mount (100), and a pair of side plates (300), each connected to the base plate (200) and a side section of the camera mount (100), respectively. The base plate (100) may slope from the upper edge (210) to a lower edge (220) of the base plate (200). A plurality of steps may be formed on an inclined surface of the base plate (200).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicle sensors, and in particular vehicle-mounted cameras. BACKGROUND

[0002] An image capture or recording device, such as a camera, can be mounted or installed in a vehicle during the manufacturing process. Such built-in cameras (e.g., factory-installed cameras) can enhance product value by providing every driver with easy operation and an immediately available in-vehicle imaging experience.

[0003] The built-in cameras can record and store images of a vehicle's surroundings while driving or parked. In recent years, these cameras have been increasingly used to collect data (e.g., raw data) for the development of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

[0004] As part of ADAS technologies, a lane keep assist system (LKA) can warn the driver if a vehicle deviates from the lane while driving, in order to keep the vehicle in the intended lane.

[0005] Optionally, a light shield can be fitted in front of a built-in camera to improve the accuracy of the LKA lane detection by reducing or preventing glare and reflections on the windshield, such as light reflected from the vehicle's dashboard. BRIEF EXPLANATION

[0006] The present disclosure is intended to eliminate or resolve the limitations of at least some implementations.

[0007] The present disclosure provides an improved light-shielding structure that reduces (e.g. minimizes) a light reflection phenomenon.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a camera light shield may comprise: a camera mount and a base plate (hereinafter referred to as: base plate) with an upper edge connected to a lower section of the camera mount. The base plate may slope from the upper edge to a lower edge of the base plate. A plurality of steps may be formed on an inclined surface of the base plate. The camera light shield may further comprise a pair of side plates, each connected to the base plate and a side section of the camera mount, respectively.

[0009] For example, the number of the plural can be between 12 and 20.

[0010] For example, the surfaces of most steps may be matte.

[0011] For example, each step of the plurality of steps can have a height between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

[0012] For example, each step of the plurality of steps can be designed in the form of a convex arc with respect to the camera mount.

[0013] For example, a cross-section of each step of the multiple steps may have lines that meet at an obtuse angle.

[0014] For example, the surfaces of most steps can be matte. For example, the number of steps can be between 12 and 20.

[0015] For example, each step of the plurality of steps can have a height between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm. For example, each step of the plurality of steps can be shaped like a convex arc with respect to the camera mount. For example, a cross-section of each step of the plurality of steps can have lines that meet at an obtuse angle.

[0016] For example, the camera light shield can have a back panel located on the rear of the camera light shield, the back panel having an opening that passes through it. For example, the base plate can have a front edge (e.g., a bottom edge) and a rear edge (e.g., a top edge) connected to a pair of side edges. For example, the base plate can share each side edge of the pair of side edges with a corresponding side wall of a pair of side walls (e.g., side plates). For example, each side wall of the pair of side walls can be connected at an obtuse angle to another side of the back panel. For example, the rear edge of the base plate can be connected to the back panel. For example, the front edge can be longer than the rear edge. For example, a cascading rib structure (e.g., a stepped structure) can be formed on the base plate.For example, the cascading wave structure can have a plurality of arcs that have a forward concavity towards the front edge and away from the opening (e.g. arc-shaped recess pointing towards the front edge).

[0017] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a vehicle may have a camera light shield. The camera light shield may comprise: a camera mount and a base plate with an upper edge connected to a lower section of the camera mount. The base plate may slope from the upper edge to a lower edge of the base plate. A plurality of steps may be formed on an inclined surface of the base plate. The camera light shield may further comprise a pair of side plates, each connected to the base plate and a side section of the camera mount. The vehicle may further comprise a camera attached to the camera mount of the camera light shield.

[0018] For example, the number of steps can range between 12 and 20.

[0019] For example, the surfaces of most steps may be matte.

[0020] For example, each step of the plurality of steps can have a height between 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

[0021] For example, each step of the plurality of steps can be designed in the form of a convex arc with respect to the camera mount.

[0022] For example, a cross-section of each step may have multiple step lines that meet at an obtuse angle.

[0023] For example, the camera light shield can have a back panel located on the rear of the camera light shield, the back panel having an opening through it. For example, the base plate can have a front edge and a rear edge connected to a pair of side edges. For example, the base plate can share each side edge of the pair of side edges with a corresponding side wall of a pair of side walls. For example, each side wall of the pair of side walls can be connected at an obtuse angle to another side of the back panel. For example, the rear edge of the base plate can be connected to the back wall. For example, the front edge can be longer than the rear edge.

[0024] For example, a cascading rib structure can be formed on the base plate. For example, the cascading rib structure can have a plurality of arches that have a forward concavity towards the front edge and away from the opening.

[0025] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a camera light shield may comprise: a back wall arranged at the rear of the camera light shield, the back wall having an opening through which the opening passes; a pair of side walls, each side wall of the pair of side walls being connected at an obtuse angle to another side of the back wall; and a base plate having a front edge and a rear edge connected to a pair of side edges. The base plate may share each side edge of the pair of side edges with a corresponding side wall of the pair of side walls. The rear edge of the base plate may be connected to the back wall. The front edge may be longer than the rear edge. A cascading rib structure may be formed on the base plate.The cascading rib structure can have multiple arches that have a forward concavity towards the front edge and away from the opening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a flowchart showing an experimental procedure for deriving improved design conditions for light shielding. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing one form of exemplary light shielding. Fig. Figure 3 is an example table for selecting a primary design factor. Fig. Figure 4 is a view showing different gradations of exemplary angles of incidence of a light source as a disturbance factor. Fig. Table 5 shows 18 example combinations of disruptive factors. Fig. Figure 6 is a table that has an L9 orthogonal arrangement table containing the primary design factor and the disturbance factor. Fig. Figure 7 is a flowchart that shows a process for conducting an experiment and analyzing the results of the experiment based on the orthogonal arrangement table. Fig. Figure 8 is a view showing some images obtained for each experimental condition. Fig. 9 is a view showing a grayscale histogram (brightness) generated by analyzing the images from Fig. 8 was calculated. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B are orthogonal arrangement tables showing brightness values ​​for each image of a light shield with a matte surface. Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B are orthogonal arrangement tables showing brightness values ​​for each image of a light shield with a glossy surface. Fig. Figure 12 is a table that shows a process for analyzing the results of an experiment using the orthogonal arrangement table. Fig. Figure 13 is a table showing a signal-to-noise ratio (SN) and an average for each combination under matte and glossy conditions. Fig. Figure 14 is a view that shows results obtained by analyzing an interaction between the primary design factors. Fig. 15A, Fig. 15B, Fig. 16A and Fig. 16B are tables and graphs showing SN ratios and mean values ​​for each level of the primary design factors. Fig. 17A and Fig. 17B are tables showing SN ratios and mean values ​​of factor D for matte and glossy materials. Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B are tables showing SN ratios and mean values ​​of factor D under outward and inward reflection angle conditions. Fig. Table 19 shows a deviation of the SN ratios and means for each primary design factor. Fig. Table 20 shows SN ratios and mean values ​​obtained on the basis of orthogonal arrangement test conditions (dark chamber test conditions) for at least some embodiments of a light shield, an improved (e.g. optimized) pattern 1 and an optimal pattern 2. Fig. 21 are images taken with a front camera in which a light shield attached to a vehicle was fitted for at least some embodiments of a light shield, an improved (e.g. optimized) pattern 1 and an optimal pattern 2. Fig. 22 is a view that shows histograms derived from the images of Fig. 21 were received. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present disclosure is described with reference to one or more embodiments. However, this does not limit the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the present disclosure includes all modifications, variations, and substitutions within the idea and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0027] In this description, the suffixes “...module” and “...unit” are used only for nominal differentiation between components and should not be interpreted as implying that the components are or can be physically or chemically separated.

[0028] It is understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used here to describe different elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms.

[0029] These terms can only serve to distinguish one component from another in the designation, and their sequence condition arises from the context of the description and not from the designations themselves.

[0030] The term "and / or" is used to include all possible combinations of the listed elements. For example, "A and / or B" includes all three cases of "A", "B", and "A and B".

[0031] For the purposes of this application and the claims, the use of the exemplary phrase "at least one of: A, B, and C" means "at least one A, or at least one B, or at least one C, or any combination of at least one A, at least one B, and at least one C." Furthermore, exemplary expressions such as "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," etc., as used herein, can mean any of the listed elements or all possible combinations of the listed elements. For example, "at least one of A and B" can refer to (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0032] It is further clear that when an element is described as "connected to another element" or "interacting with another element", it may be directly connected to the other element or there may be intermediate elements.

[0033] In the following description, the technical terms are used only to explain one or more embodiments, without limiting the present disclosure.

[0034] Singular terms may have plural forms unless otherwise stated.

[0035] The meaning of "exhibit" or "include" specifies a property, area, fixed number, step, process, element and / or component, but does not exclude other properties, areas, fixed numbers, steps, processes, elements and / or components.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, the terms used in this disclosure may be interpreted in a manner known to a person skilled in the art.

[0037] Terms that are commonly used and found in dictionaries should be interpreted to reflect their contextual meanings in engineering. In this description, terms that are not clearly defined are ideally not interpreted excessively as having formal meanings.

[0038] Furthermore, the terms “unit”, “control unit”, “control device” or “control device” are often used to refer to devices that control specific functions and do not refer to a generic functional unit.

[0039] Furthermore, named devices may include a communication device that communicates with another control device or sensor to control the appropriate function, a computer-readable recording medium that stores an operating system, a logic instruction and input / output information, and at least one processor that performs the detection, decision-making and calculations required for function control.

[0040] On the other hand, the processor may include integrated semiconductor circuits and / or electronic elements that perform at least one or more of the following operations: comparing, determining, calculating, and deciding in order to achieve programmed functions.

[0041] For example, the processor can be a computer, a microprocessor, a CPU, an ASIC, an electronic circuit (logic circuit), or a combination thereof.

[0042] Furthermore, the computer-readable recording medium (or storage) includes all types of data storage devices that store computer-readable data.

[0043] For example, the computer-readable recording medium may include at least a flash memory type, hard disk type, micro type, card type (e.g. Secure Digital (SD) card) or extreme Digital (XD) type storage device and a random access memory (RAM), static RAM (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), magnetic disk or optical storage device.

[0044] These storage media can be electrically connected to the processor, and the processor can read data from and write data to the storage media.

[0045] The storage media and the processor can be integrated or physically separate.

[0046] In the following, one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] A light shield can be a device that blocks or attenuates light. Specifically, a light shield can be positioned near (e.g., on, beside, or near) a camera to prevent at least some of the light (e.g., stray light) from reaching or entering an opening (e.g., a lens) of the camera. Light shields can also be referred to by various names, such as sight guide, shield, lens shield, cover, light shield, lens cover, aperture, light diaphragm, lens aperture, hood, light hood, lens hood, etc. A light shield can have one or more sides or walls made of an opaque material (e.g., plastic, metal, resin, etc.) that can, for example, block, attenuate, reflect, or refract light. A light shield can form part of a housing, bezel, or mount for the camera.

[0048] The present disclosure uses a robust Six Sigma (design for six sigma; abbreviated DFSS) method (hereinafter also referred to as the robust DFSS method) which uses an orthogonal arrangement table to find improved (e.g. optimized) design specifications for a light shield that reduces light reflections.

[0049] In the manufacturing of a product, various design factors can define or influence the product's specifications, and each of these design factors can have different levels or strengths of influence. The robust DFSS method is an experimental procedure that can find an improved (e.g., optimized) combination by analyzing a trend using only a subset of combinations, rather than conducting experiments using all combinations for each level and for each factor.

[0050] A light shield can have a base plate extending outwards from the camera mounting point in a trapezoidal or triangular shape. The light shield can also have side plates formed on both sides of an inclined surface of the trapezoidal (or triangular) base plate. The base plate can have a stepped (e.g., staggered) structure that gradually slopes downwards from the camera mounting position.

[0051] However, depending on deviations from the detailed specifications of the light shield, light can be reflected from the surface (e.g., the surface of the base plate) of the light shield and produce unwanted visual artifacts such as blurring, ghosting, stray light, etc., if the light source happens to meet a certain condition, such as a specific angle of incidence.

[0052] The present disclosure shows, by means of one or more embodiments, an improved light shielding with reduced or eliminated light reflection, as well as a method for designing and manufacturing such a device.

[0053] Fig. Figure 1 is a flowchart showing a process for deriving improved design conditions for a light shield.

[0054] In step S100, design factors (e.g. parameters, conditions, etc.) for a light shield to reduce light reflection can be derived or determined.

[0055] For example, a pattern and a material for a base plate 200 can be considered as factors that influence the light reflection in the light shielding.

[0056] One or more of these factors can be adopted (e.g., determined) as design factors.

[0057] In step S200, a disruptive factor can be selected (e.g., determined) as an environmental factor.

[0058] After each factor has been selected, an image analysis function can be derived (e.g. determined) in step S300 that is able to determine whether light reflection is reduced.

[0059] Image data can be obtained by installing the light shielding manufactured on the basis of a specific combination of design factors into a vehicle and creating an environment based on the selected interference factor, and a test result can be analyzed by the image analysis function in step S400.

[0060] The test results can be analyzed to determine the extent to which each factor influences (e.g., contributes to) light reflection. In step S500, an improved (e.g., optimized) design combination is derived that reduces (e.g., minimizes) light reflection and is robust against disturbances.

[0061] The individual experimental steps are described in detail below.

[0062] Steps S100 and S200 for selecting the design factors and the disruptive factor are described.

[0063] In this example experiment, a primary design factor relating to a shape (e.g., a texture, a structure, etc.) of a surface of a base plate 200 of the light shielding, and a secondary design factor relating to a surface of the material can be selected.

[0064] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing one example of a light shield. The light shield can be attached, for example, to an inner surface of a windshield (e.g., a front or rear window), so that the camera mounted on the light shield can be pointed towards the outside of the vehicle.

[0065] The light shield can have a camera mount 100 to which a camera (e.g., a front camera) can be attached. The light shield can also have a base plate 200. The base plate 200 can have a polygonal shape (e.g., a trapezoid, triangle, rectangle, square, etc.). The base plate 200 can have an upper edge (also called top end, inner edge, inner end, or first edge) 210 and a lower edge (also called bottom end, outer edge, outer end, or second edge) 220. The lower edge 220 can be wider than the upper edge 210, giving the base plate 200 a trapezoidal shape. The upper edge 210 can be connected to (e.g., abut) a lower section (e.g., a bottom end) of the camera mount 100.The light shield can further comprise a pair of side plates (also referred to as walls, side walls, wall panels, or side wall plates) 300, which are connected to (e.g., abut) the base plate 200 and the camera mount 100. Each of the side plates 300 can be connected to an inclined side of the base plate 200 and a side section of the camera mount 100. The camera mount 100 can, for example, have an opening through which the camera can receive light (e.g., take pictures). The camera mount 100 can also have a cavity (e.g., a chamber, a room, a housing, a bezel, etc.) in which the camera can be housed and / or mounted. The base plate 200 can have a stepped (e.g., cascading) structure (e.g., waves) on its surface. The steps of this structure can cause incident light to be reflected or scattered from the surface of the base plate 200 in a specific manner.The number (e.g. the quantity), the shape and / or the size of the steps can determine the reflection and diffusion properties of the base plate 200.

[0066] For example, a light shield (e.g., a camera light shield) can have a back panel, a pair of side panels, and a base plate. The back panel can be a camera mount on which a camera can be installed. The back panel can be located on the rear of the camera light shield (e.g., facing the interior of the vehicle if the light shield is installed on an inner surface of the vehicle's windshield). The back panel can have an opening. If the camera is mounted on the light shield, the camera (e.g., a camera lens) can point through the opening. Each of the two side panels can be connected to either side (e.g., the left or the right side) of the back panel at an obtuse angle, creating, for example, a fan shape (e.g., a triangle or a trapezoid). The base plate can have a front edge and a rear edge connected to a pair of side edges.The front edge, rear edge, and side edges of the base plate can form a polygonal shape, such as a trapezoid. The base plate can share each side edge of the pair of side edges with a corresponding side wall of the pair of side walls. The rear edge of the base plate can be connected to the rear wall. The base plate, rear wall, and / or side walls can prevent or attenuate ambient light (e.g., stray light) from entering the camera through the opening in the rear wall. The front edge can be longer than the rear edge. A cascading wave or rib structure (e.g., arched steps) can be formed on the base plate. The cascading wave or rib structure can have multiple arches. The multiple arches can have a forward concavity (or backward convexity). The forward concavity can point toward the front edge and away from the opening.Alternatively, the majority of arcs may exhibit a backward concavity (or frontal convexity).

[0067] Here, the base plate 200 can be inclined away from the upper edge 210 and towards an outer edge (also called outer end or second end) 220, which is located on the opposite side (e.g., gradually inclined or sloping).

[0068] The polygonal shape can be trapezoidal. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. The lower boundary (e.g., a base) of the polygon can be a straight line, a combination of angled straight lines, or it can have a curve / curvature.

[0069] With the light shielding design described above, the amount of light reflected from the base plate 200 and entering the camera lens can vary depending on the shape of the base plate 200. Therefore, the shape of the base plate 200 can be one of the design factors of the light shielding that influences the amount of light entering the camera.

[0070] Therefore, the number of steps (A) of the base plate 200, the height (B) of each step, the horizontal shape (C) of each step and / or the cross-sectional shape (D) of each step can be selected as primary design factors.

[0071] Each factor can be set to one of predetermined (e.g., three) levels.

[0072] Fig. Table 3 is an example table for selecting a primary design factor. The scale for the number (or quantity) of levels (A) can, for example, be 6 (level 1), 9 (level 2), and 12 (level 3). However, a different number of levels can be selected, and there can be fewer or more than three levels to be tested.

[0073] The maximum number can be set to 12, for example, which can be the maximum number of manufacturable steps while fulfilling all design conditions for height (B) and cross-sectional shape (D).

[0074] The height increments (B) can, for example, be 1.5 mm (level 1), 2.0 mm (level 2), and 2.5 mm (level 3). The horizontal shape increments (C) can, for example, be a straight line (level 1), an outwardly curved (e.g., convex) arc (level 2), which may be a concave arc relative to the camera mount, and an inwardly curved (e.g., concave) arc (level 3), which may be a convex arc relative to the camera mount. The gradation of the cross-sectional shape (D) can, for example, have a right-angled shape (level 1) (e.g., a cross-section of each of the several levels has lines that meet at a right angle), an obtuse-angled shape (level 2) (e.g., a cross-section of each of the several levels has lines that meet at an obtuse angle), and an acute-angled shape (level 3) (e.g., a cross-section of each of the several levels has lines that meet at an acute angle).

[0075] The primary design factors can have multiple combinations. In this example experiment, however, only nine combinations are selected and arranged in a vertical axis of the orthogonal arrangement table.

[0076] This is because the robust DFSS method can analyze a trend by using only a few combinations to find the improved (e.g., optimized) combination.

[0077] Secondary design factors can include glossy surfaces (level 1) and matte surfaces (level 2), depending on the material used to treat the surfaces of the light shielding, especially the surfaces of the majority of levels.

[0078] This is because differences in light reflection can occur depending on the surface treatment.

[0079] In this example experiment, only the primary design factors can / must be used for the combinations of factors in the orthogonal arrangement table.

[0080] However, since a comparison of the performance between glossy and matte treatment or surface is necessary, the glossy and matte treatment or surface can be adopted as secondary design factors, whereby two orthogonal arrangement tables are created and their average values ​​can be compared in order to determine a superior or strongly influencing factor among the secondary design factors.

[0081] In some implemented light shields, the number of steps can be 20, the height of each step can be 2.0 mm, the horizontal shape of each step can be an outwardly curved convex arc, and the cross-sectional shape of each step can be a rectangular shape.

[0082] These particular designs have proven to be prone to significant light reflection.

[0083] The light shielding according to the present disclosure may have similar or identical specifications to these implementations, but with different factors, as described above.

[0084] In step S200, a disturbance factor can be selected.

[0085] In this revelation, the angle of incidence of a light source and the light intensity of the light source can be selected as disturbing factors.

[0086] The angle of incidence can influence the degree or extent (e.g., the amount) of light reflection from the base plate 200 by affecting the amount of light entering the lens through reflection. The intensity of the light from the light source can also influence the degree or extent (e.g., the amount) of light reflection from the base plate 200.

[0087] The color temperature of the light can be another interfering factor. For example, the influence of the color temperature on the amount of light reflected from the base plate 200 may be less than that of the angle of incidence or the light intensity of the light source, but the color temperature can be used for a comparative analysis of its influence on light reflection.

[0088] Fig. Figure 4 is a view showing different levels of example angles of incidence of a light source as a disturbance factor. In the case of the angle of incidence of the light source, the levels of the associated disturbance factors can be classified according to the angle of reflection as outward reflection angle and inward reflection angle, and also based on the position of a reflective surface in the light shield into inner, vertical, and outer positions.

[0089] The reflection angle of light from a light source can be classified as an inward reflection angle if the light source is located in front of the vehicle's light shield (e.g., if the light source is in front of the vehicle) and the light is reflected towards the camera. The reflection angle can be classified as an outward reflection angle if the light source is above the vehicle (e.g., if the light source is behind the camera) and the light is reflected away from the camera.

[0090] The position of the reflective surface of the light shield can be classified as "inside" if the light is reflected more strongly from an inner section or a section located further inwards (e.g., an upper half) of the base plate 200 of the light shield. The position of the reflective surface of the light shield can be classified as "vertical" if the light is reflected essentially uniformly from the entire surface of the base plate 200 of the light shield. The position of the reflective surface of the light shield can be classified as "outside" if the light is reflected more strongly from an outer section or a section located further outwards (e.g., a lower half) of the base plate 200 of the light shield.

[0091] In this case, all experiments can be carried out under darkroom conditions.

[0092] The light intensity levels of the light source can be classified, for example, as 2,000 ix (brightness level 1), 10,000 ix (brightness level 2), and 20,000 ix (brightness level 3). The angle of incidence of the light source and its light intensity, which represent the interfering factors, can constitute a total of 18 combinations (N1 to N18), as shown in a table in Fig. 5 shown.

[0093] The combinations of the disturbance factors can be arranged along a horizontal axis of the orthogonal arrangement table, as shown in Fig. 5 shown.

[0094] The orthogonal arrangement table with the combinations of primary design factors and disruptive factors is in Fig. 6 shown.

[0095] The numbers 1 to 3 given on the left side of the table can represent the different levels (e.g. levels 1 to 3) of the primary design factors A to D.

[0096] For example, stage 1 can mean that an experiment is carried out under light source conditions of 18 combinations on a light shield with the following specifications: The number A of steps is 6, the height B of each step is 1.5 mm, the horizontal shape C of the steps or staircase is linear, and the cross-sectional shape D of the step is rectangular.

[0097] In this example experiment, an L9 orthogonal arrangement table can be used. The L9 orthogonal arrangement table allows a trend to be identified based on only 9 combinations and an improved (e.g., optimized) combination to be defined.

[0098] A process for deriving an image analysis function capable of determining the light reflection reduction in step S300 and for analyzing an experimental result in step S400 is described in detail below.

[0099] With reference to Fig. 7 In step S310, images are taken by a light reflection camera or of a light reflection recorded by a camera under darkroom conditions.

[0100] A light source may be installed and a blackout curtain may be in place (e.g., as in Fig. 4 shown).

[0101] The light source is installed according to the combinations of the orthogonal arrangement table so that the angle of incidence of the light source has an outward and inward reflection angle and the reflective surface in the light shield reflects at an inner, outer or vertical position.

[0102] Furthermore, the brightness of the light source can be adjusted to, for example, three levels.

[0103] Levels of 2,000 Ix, 10,000 Ix and 20,000 Ix respectively can be set based on the output power.

[0104] Among the combinations described above, the light source can have a total of 18 states.

[0105] A blackout curtain can be installed before or after the light source to create a darkroom-like environment.

[0106] Light-blocking patterns can be attached to a built-in camera.

[0107] The light-shielding patterns can, for example, have a total of 18 patterns, including nine glossy patterns and nine matte patterns, based on the orthogonal arrangement table.

[0108] In addition to the 324 image patterns (18 × 18) based on combinations of the angles and positions of the light source (18) and combinations of the light shielding patterns (18), 64 backup or comparison data sets can be obtained for states without attached light shielding (camera attached without a light shield), unpatterned patterns (e.g., without step or rib structure of the base plate), and serial patterns for each condition.

[0109] According to this, a total of 387 images will be received.

[0110] Fig. Figure 8 is a view showing a portion of the images obtained for each experimental condition.

[0111] A grayscale (brightness) histogram transformation (conversion of the images into a grayscale or brightness graph) is performed for each image in step S320 based on the 387 obtained images. Fig. 7 carried out.

[0112] Fig. Figure 9 is a histogram showing the number of pixels based on the image brightness. Here, the total number of pixels is 2560 × 1440.

[0113] As in step S330 in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the image analysis function can add a weight for a brightness exceeding 0x250 (the expression "0x250" denotes a brightness value that represents the 250th value between 0 and 255 for brightness in a grayscale image, with low values ​​corresponding to "dark" and high values ​​to "bright") to a sum of the multiplication of the number of pixels for each brightness.

[0114] As in step S340 in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, although the overall combined brightness value based on the histogram is extremely low, a weighting index function is applied to exclude images with quality problems that tend to concentrate brightness data above 0x250.

[0115] The brightness value for each image can be calculated using the histogram results from the image analysis function, as described in step S350 in Fig. 7 shown.

[0116] This can be expressed by the following equation. ∑x=1256[{x(brightness)×P(x)(number of pixels)}10x−250×P(x)]

[0117] The brightness value for each image, calculated by the image analysis function, is in Fig. 10A and Fig. 11B is shown.

[0118] Fig. 10A and Fig. Figure 10B shows orthogonal arrangement tables with the brightness values ​​for each image of the frosted light shield, and Fig. 11A and Fig. Figure 11B shows orthogonal arrangement tables with the brightness values ​​for each image of the glossy light shield.

[0119] Since the brightness values ​​for each image are determined through experiments under darkroom conditions, lower brightness values ​​caused by light reflection correspond to less light reflection.

[0120] This means that the brightness setting for each image has the property that a lower value results in better performance.

[0121] The test result is analyzed in step S400.

[0122] The test result is analyzed in five steps, as described in Fig. 12 shown. 1) Deriving a signal-to-noise ratio (SN ratio) and an average value for the secondary design factors (which relate to a surface material). 2) Selection of an improved (e.g., optimized) gradation among the secondary design factors. 3) Analysis of the interactions between the primary design factors using the orthogonal arrangement table for a matte material. 4) Deriving and analyzing the SN ratio and the mean of the primary design factors under dull conditions. 5) Detailed analysis of the influence of the primary design factors under matte conditions.

[0123] The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is the ratio of signal strength to noise level, with a higher value indicating better performance. The SNR for the "lower is better" property can be calculated using the following equation. SN Ratio=−10 log(1n∑i=1nYi2)

[0124] Here, Y denotes i the brightness values ​​obtained from the measured image data and n the number of measurement data.

[0125] The SN ratios and the means for each condition, calculated using the equation above, are in Fig. 13 shown.

[0126] The dotted fields in the table represent the minimum and maximum values ​​of the SN ratio for each material.

[0127] According to the results above, the SN ratio for matte material has a value of -173.32 dB to -171.81 dB, and the SN ratio for glossy material has a value of -177.91 dB to -172.98 dB.

[0128] Since the matte material is superior in reducing light reflection across a wider range of SN ratios, the "matte" property is selected as an improved (e.g., optimized) factor for the surface of the material.

[0129] The interactions between the primary design factors can be analyzed using an interaction analysis tool for the results of the orthogonal arrangement table based on the matte material.

[0130] The results are in Fig. Figure 14 shows that there is no interaction between the primary design factors relating to the shape of the base plate 200, i.e., the number A of steps, and the height B, horizontal shape C, and cross-sectional shape D of each step.

[0131] The SN ratio and the mean value for each level of the primary design factors can be derived using an automatic calculation tool for the results of the orthogonal arrangement table based on the matte material.

[0132] This can be derived using the SN ratio equation with the "smaller is better" characteristic described above.

[0133] The results are in the Fig. 15A and Fig. 16A shown and in the graphics in the Fig. 15B and Fig. 16B shown.

[0134] The dotted boxes in the table and the dotted circles in the graphs represent the improved (e.g., optimized) levels (a largest value for the S / N ratio and a smallest value for the mean).

[0135] Based on the results above, it can be stated that factors A3, B3 and C3 have the best performance based on the SN ratio and the mean.

[0136] In the case of factor D, however, D2 exhibits a better signal-to-noise ratio, while D3 has an excellent mean value. Therefore, the improved (e.g., optimized) value of factor D can be determined through further analysis.

[0137] For this purpose, the S / N ratios and the mean values ​​of the factor D for matte and glossy materials are compared (see Fig. 17A and Fig. 17B) and the S / N ratios and the mean values ​​under outward reflection angle conditions and inward reflection angle conditions were compared (see Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B).

[0138] From the Fig. 17A and Fig. As shown in 17B, a difference between the results of factors D2 and D3 based on the matte condition is immaterial.

[0139] Although D2 is slightly superior in terms of noise robustness (S / N ratio), D3 is slightly superior in terms of mean.

[0140] On the other hand, it is known that factor D2 has a superior performance to factor D3 under gloss conditions (D2 > D3).

[0141] With reference to Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B It can be observed that under the outward reflection condition, factor D2 has a significantly superior performance compared to factor D3 (D2 >> D3), while under the inward reflection condition, factor D3 has a slightly superior performance compared to factor D2 (D2 ≤ D3).

[0142] Furthermore, when comparing the complexity of pattern making, the obtuse-angled shape D2 of the cross-sectional shape of each stage is less difficult to produce and is subject to fewer restrictions compared to the acute-angled shape D3.

[0143] When comparing the above results, factor “D2” is selected as the improved (e.g., optimized) factor because factor D2 is less sensitive to disturbances and can be easily manufactured, while factor D3 has excessive variations in performance according to the materials of the surfaces (matte or glossy) and light reflection angles.

[0144] As a result, the improved (e.g., optimized) gradations of the primary design factors based on the test results correspond to A3 (number of steps: 12), B3 (height of step: 2.5 mm), C3 (horizontal shape of each step: inwardly curved concave arc) and D2 (cross-sectional shape of each step: obtuse-angled shape), and the improved (e.g., optimized) value of the secondary design factor corresponds to the matte surface.

[0145] A combination of the factors described above is referred to as an improved (e.g., optimized) Pattern 1.

[0146] If Fig. 19, which shows a deviation between the SN ratios and the mean values ​​of each primary design factor, is analyzed to determine the primary design factor that has the greatest influence on light reflection, factor A (the number of stages), which has the greatest deviation, has the greatest influence on the light reflection of the light shielding.

[0147] Furthermore, factors B (height of the step) and D (cross-sectional shape of the step) have a similar influence on the light reflection of the light shielding, while factor C (horizontal shape of the step) has the least influence.

[0148] Referring to the SN ratio (see Fig. 15B) and the mean (see Fig. 16B) of factor A, which has the greatest influence on light reflection, it can be observed that performance improves with an increasing number of stages.

[0149] Therefore, a combination in which the number (of levels) in factor A of the improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 1 is increased to 20 is selected as improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 2.

[0150] The three levels of factor A are initially set to 12, as the maximum number of designable / manufacturable levels is limited to 12 because factor D (cross-sectional shape of the level) has an acute-angled shape. However, since the obtuse-angled shape was selected as an improved (e.g., optimized) level of factor D, the number of levels can be designed to a maximum of 20. Thus, factor A in the improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 2 is set to the maximum manufacturable number of 20 levels.

[0151] To verify the performance of the improved (e.g., optimized) specifications, the results according to the test conditions of the orthogonal arrangement table are compared with the results obtained by analyzing images taken by installing the light shield with the corresponding specifications in a vehicle.

[0152] Fig. Table 20 shows the SN ratios and means obtained under the experimental conditions (darkroom conditions) of the orthogonal arrangement table of the improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 1 and the improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 2. Fig. Figure 21 shows images taken with a camera (e.g., a front camera) using the light shield fitted to a vehicle, a production model, improved (e.g., optimized) Pattern 1, and improved (e.g., optimized) Pattern 2. Fig. Figure 22 shows histograms made from the data in Fig. 21 images were received.

[0153] With reference to Fig. Figure 20 shows that the SN ratio of the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 1 shows an improvement of 0.75 dB and the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 2 shows an improvement of 1.00 dB compared to the standard product, and the mean values ​​show an improvement of 8.4% for the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 1 and 11% for the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 2 compared to the standard product.

[0154] It can be observed that the expected results of the improved (e.g., optimized) product compared to the standard product are improvements of 1.02 dB and 10%, although these are estimates.

[0155] With reference to Fig. Image 21 is a dark image taken by the front camera in a light shielding state where it is not attached, but clearly shows the word "CAM" across the entire image.

[0156] However, an image taken with a camera to which the standard manufactured light shield is attached shows a wide unreadable area in the middle.

[0157] It can be seen that the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 1 has an improved readable area compared to the standard product, and the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 2 has an improvement in the readability of the word "CAM" in the middle area compared to the improved (e.g., optimized) sample 1.

[0158] With reference to Fig. 22. The improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 1 can have a mean value of 1,029,098,695 based on the light reflection area with respect to the mean value of the histogram for the images described above, which is an improvement of 13% compared to some embodiments of a light shield that have a maximum value of 1,195,950,363 based on the light reflection area, and the improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 1 has a mean value of 981,509,105 based on the light reflection area, which is an improvement of 18% compared to some embodiments of a light shield.

[0159] As a result, the improved (e.g., optimized) pattern 2 improves light reflection by 11% based on the experimental conditions (darkroom) of the orthogonal arrangement table and improves light reflection by 18% based on the reproduction conditions. Therefore, it is concluded that the effectiveness validations of the improved (e.g., optimized) light shielding specifications are complete.

[0160] In summary, when using camera light shields to remove glare from the dashboard, undesirable side effects can occur, where sunlight or street light is reflected at certain angles from the surface of the light shield and enters the lens, causing image blurring.

[0161] To reduce (e.g., minimize) these side effects, the pattern shapes and material of the light shield's surface, which can be designed, can be selected as factors for the experiment. The DFSS experimental design procedure, based on the orthogonal arrangement table for reducing (e.g., minimizing) light reflection, is used to quantitatively analyze the image brightness data. Accordingly, the design combination of surface patterns (e.g., steps) and materials (e.g., matte or glossy surface) for improved (e.g., optimized) light shielding can be derived, which is capable of reducing (e.g., minimizing) light reflection.

[0162] In the design specifications of the improved (e.g., optimized) light shielding, which are derived on the basis of the planning procedure of the present experiment, the material of the light shielding is mattified, the height of each step is 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm (preferably 2.5 mm), the number of steps is 12 to a maximum of 20, the horizontal shape of the step is an inwardly curved concave arc, and the cross-sectional shape of the steps is an obtuse-angled shape.

[0163] The five improved (e.g., optimized) design specifications described above exhibit variations in the degree of light reflectance, which are based on the adjustment of the design factors and their combination conditions and were calculated using the best combinations with the best performance as the basis of the experiment.

[0164] The improved (e.g., optimized) combination (number of stages is 20) is determined by a new combination with the improved (e.g., optimized) mean value and SN ratio, where in this case the SN ratio is -171.31 dB and the mean values ​​are 358,383,950.914 points, which are the final performances.

[0165] This combination can show an improvement in light reflection of about 21% compared to a frosted combination with the lowest performance and an improvement of about 47% compared to a glossy combination with the lowest performance.

[0166] As described above, the design values ​​of the improved (e.g. optimized) light shielding determined quantitatively by this experiment can confirm a reduction in light reflection performance, and an improvement effect can even be verified with the naked eye by comparing the images.

[0167] The light shield, manufactured using the improved (e.g., optimized) design combination factors derived from this experiment, can be installed on / in a vehicle to significantly improve the typical limitations of light reflection encountered in practice. Furthermore, the light shield can enhance the quality of images recorded by the built-in camera and increase image robustness against external influences, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[0168] A camera sight guide can comprise: a camera mounting part, a base plate having a first end connected to a lower end of the camera mounting part, and a pair of side plates each connected to an inclined side of the base plate and a side section of the camera mounting part, the base plate being inclined by a plurality of steps from the first end to a second end opposite the first end.

[0169] The number of steps can range from 12 to 20.

[0170] The surfaces of most steps may be matte.

[0171] Each step of the plurality of steps can have a height of 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0172] Each stage of the plurality of stages can be formed in the shape of a convex arc with respect to the camera mounting part.

[0173] The cross-sectional shape of each step of the plurality of steps can be an obtuse-angled shape.

[0174] The surfaces of the plurality of steps can be matte, and the number of the plurality of steps is 12 to 20, each step of the plurality of steps having a height of 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm and having the shape of a convex arc with respect to the camera mounting part, and the cross-sectional shape of each step of the plurality of steps is an obtuse-angled shape.

[0175] A vehicle may have: a front camera, and a camera sight guide attached to the front camera, the camera sight guide comprising: a camera mounting part, a base plate having a first end connected to a lower end of the camera mounting part, and a pair of side plates each connected to an inclined side of the base plate and a side section of the camera mounting part, the base plate being inclined by a plurality of steps from the first end to a second end opposite the first end.

[0176] The number of levels can range from 12 to 20.

[0177] The surfaces of most steps may be matte.

[0178] Each step of the plurality of steps can have a height of 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0179] Each stage of the plurality of stages can be formed in the shape of a convex arc with respect to the camera mounting part.

[0180] The cross-sectional shape of each step of the plurality of steps can be an obtuse-angled shape.

[0181] A vehicle comprises: a front camera, and a camera sight guide attached to the front camera, the camera sight guide comprising: a camera mounting part, a base plate in the shape of a polygon, the upper surface of which is connected to a lower end of the camera mounting part, and a pair of side plates, each connected to an inclined side of the polygon of the base plate and a side section of the camera mounting part, the base plate being inclined downwards while forming a step in one direction from an inner end connected to the camera mounting part to an outer end opposite the inner end, the surfaces of the plurality of steps being frosted, the number of the plurality of steps being 12 to 20, each step of the plurality of steps having a height of 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm and having the shape of a convex arc with respect to the camera mounting part.and the cross-sectional shape of each step of the majority of steps is an obtuse-angled shape.

[0182] The present disclosure proposes an improved (e.g., optimized) structure of a light shield that can reduce (e.g., minimize) light reflection.

[0183] Furthermore, a light shield according to the present disclosure can exhibit a reduction in light reflection of 10% or more compared to at least some embodiments.

[0184] Furthermore, a light shield according to the present disclosure can reduce (e.g. minimize) the reflected light entering the lens in order to improve the robustness of the image quality of the built-in camera.

[0185] Taking into account the test results, which consider the secondary reflection from the windshield, the light shielding can be designed with the improved (e.g. optimized) conditions in order to ensure the improved (e.g. optimized) performance.

[0186] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, these are merely illustrative examples and are not to be understood as limiting the present disclosure to these embodiments.

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