In-Cabin 3D Occupant Detection for Ergonomic Seat Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle monitoring systems struggle to accurately capture and analyze the 3-dimensional skeletal representation of vehicle occupants for improving ergonomics and posture, leading to potential health issues and discomfort due to inadequate seat and steering wheel adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring system that utilizes imaging devices and multiple illumination sources to capture 2D and depth information, enabling the extraction of a 3D skeletal representation of vehicle occupants, which can then adjust seats and steering wheels based on posture analysis to enhance ergonomics and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional 2D imaging is used to monitor vehicle occupants, then the system complexity is low, but the measurement precision of skeletal representation is insufficient for accurate ergonomics analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D imaging to 3D imaging by introducing depth information capture. The imaging device captures both 2D image data and depth map data, enabling the construction of 3D skeletal representations that accurately reflect the spatial position and posture of vehicle occupants, thereby resolving the limitation of 2D imaging in ergonomics analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces depth maps as an intermediary element that bridges 2D imaging and 3D reconstruction. The depth map provides distance information from the imaging device to each pixel, serving as a mediator that enables accurate 3D skeletal representation without requiring complex multi-camera setups, thus balancing measurement precision and system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple illumination sources are added to capture depth information, then the measurement precision improves, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic illumination by alternately activating the first illumination source (for 2D imaging) and the second illumination source (for depth mapping). This periodic action allows the imaging device to capture both 2D image data and depth map data over time, achieving accurate depth measurement while managing energy consumption through controlled, intermittent illumination rather than continuous operation.
3Manufacturing precision
If 3D skeletal representation is implemented for posture analysis, then the ergonomics adjustment accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary processing by generating depth maps and extracting skeletal representations before conducting ergonomics analysis. The processor pre-processes the raw imaging data into structured 3D skeletal models with joint positions and body segment orientations, which then serve as input for ergonomics evaluation. This preliminary action simplifies the subsequent analysis and control processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the occupant's skeletal structure through 3D reconstruction. Instead of directly measuring physical dimensions, the system generates a virtual 3D skeletal model that replicates the occupant's posture and anatomy. This digital copy enables accurate ergonomics analysis and automated seat/steering wheel adjustments without requiring direct physical measurement devices.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides precise adjustments to improve ergonomics, reduce drowsiness, and enhance occupant health by accurately determining posture and seat/steering wheel positions, thereby reducing strain and promoting better vehicle occupancy conditions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one imaging device configured to capture a first image type and a second image type
Data Source
AI summary
A monitoring system for a vehicle includes an imaging device configured to capture a first image type and a second image type. A first illumination source is configured to emit a flood illumination captured by the imaging device in the first image type. A second illumination source is configured to emit an illumination pattern captured by the imaging device in the second image type. A processor is configured to extract a 2D skeletal representation of a vehicle occupant from the first image type and extrapolate a 3D skeletal representation of the vehicle occupant. The processor is further configured to generate at least one of a communication to the vehicle occupant to change a posture or a signal to a vehicle control system to move at least one of a position of a seat or a position of a steering wheel.