Vehicle Camera Lighting Synchronization to Reduce Shadow Artifacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing procedures for operating motor vehicle systems struggle to effectively improve object recognition in vehicle environments, particularly due to issues with shadow formation and contrast in images captured by cameras.
Innovation Solution
The proposed procedure involves coordinating the operation of multiple radiation sources, such as headlights, with cameras to reduce shadow formation. This is achieved by switching off certain radiation sources during image capture, ensuring that only one source is active at a time, thereby enhancing contrast and reducing shadows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple radiation sources are switched on simultaneously to illuminate objects, then the illumination intensity is improved, but shadow formation increases and contrast deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by switching radiation sources on and off in alternating sequences rather than simultaneously. Multiple radiation sources illuminate the scene at different time intervals, creating periodic illumination cycles that allow the camera to capture images during specific phases when shadow formation is minimized while maintaining adequate illumination intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational state of radiation sources based on imaging requirements. During image capture, the system switches off certain radiation sources to reduce shadows, while maintaining illumination through other sources or ambient light, creating a dynamic illumination strategy that adapts to the specific imaging moment.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple radiation sources are switched on simultaneously to illuminate objects, then the illumination intensity is improved, but the contrast in images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by coordinating the switching cycles of multiple radiation sources with the camera's image capture timing. Images are captured during specific phases of the periodic illumination cycles when contrast is optimized, while illumination intensity is maintained through the alternating activation of different radiation sources over time.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If all radiation sources remain on during image capture, then the illumination is continuous, but the detection precision of objects decreases due to shadow interference
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that while individual radiation sources are switched off during image capture, other radiation sources or ambient illumination continue to provide adequate lighting. This creates a continuous illumination environment that prevents complete darkness while allowing high-contrast images to be captured during specific time windows.
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
This approach significantly improves object recognition by reducing shadow formation and enhancing contrast in images captured by cameras, leading to better image quality and more effective object detection.
Implementation Method 1
at least one camera (3l, 3r) is provided in or on the motor vehicle for detecting objects in the vicinity of the motor vehicle. The objects to be detected are illuminated by the radiation from said radiation sources.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a motor vehicle (K') operating device with several radiation sources (10) for emitting electromagnetic radiation (ES) in and/or against a forward direction of travel (F) and with at least one camera (3) for detecting objects (O) in the vicinity of the motor vehicle (K') which are illuminated by the radiation (ES) of the radiation sources (10). According to the invention, it is proposed that the recording of images by the camera (3) for detecting objects (O) is coordinated with the emission of electromagnetic radiation (ES) by the radiation sources (10) in such a way that at least during the recording of an image by the at least one camera (3), only a portion of the radiation sources (10) remain switched on.