Deployable Side Shark Fin Camera for Aerodynamic Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional external vehicle mirrors are heavy, reduce aerodynamic efficiency, obscure the view, and perform poorly in adverse weather conditions, posing safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A multi-view imaging system with an extendable camera and actuator, housed in a triangular area forward of the vehicle window, providing side and rear views, and equipped with sensors and lighting to enhance visibility and safety, including radar and Lidar units for object detection, and a projector for communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional external mirrors are used, then the vehicle operator can view the portions of the vehicle surroundings, but the mirrors are heavy and reduce aerodynamic efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical mirror system with an optical/electronic imaging system. A camera captures images of the vehicle surroundings, and these images are displayed on interior displays, substituting the mechanical reflection-based mirror system with an electronic image-based system that is lighter and more aerodynamic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the external environment through camera imaging. Instead of using physical mirrors to reflect and copy the external scene, the system uses cameras to capture and electronically reproduce the surrounding environment on interior displays, achieving the same functional goal with different technology.
2Reliability
If conventional external mirrors are used, then the vehicle operator can view the portions of the vehicle surroundings, but the mirrors obscure the view behind the mirrors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional mirror surface to a multi-dimensional imaging system. Cameras positioned at various angles capture images from multiple dimensions and perspectives, which are then displayed on interior screens, providing a comprehensive view that eliminates blind spots and obscuration issues inherent in traditional mirror placements.
3Reliability
If conventional external mirrors are used, then the vehicle operator can view the portions of the vehicle surroundings, but rain, snow and poor lighting can significantly degrade images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive optical mirror system with an active electronic imaging system that includes illumination capabilities. The camera-based system with integrated lighting can actively illuminate the scene, overcoming poor lighting conditions, and the electronic image processing can compensate for adverse weather conditions better than passive mirror reflection.
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 offers improved aerodynamics, enhanced visibility in adverse conditions, and increased safety through better detection of blind spots and obstacles, while maintaining a compact design that can adapt to trailer towing and handle-less door operations.
Implementation Method 1
a radar unit configured to sense an object adjacent to the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a Lidar unit configured to sense an object adjacent to the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-view imaging system for a vehicle includes a housing fixedly secured external to the vehicle and an extendable camera configured to image a side and/or rear from the vehicle and to extend from and retract into the housing. The multi-view imaging system further includes an actuator configured to urge the extendable camera out of and into the housing.