Auto Switching Display Mirror Assembly Blocked Imager Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview systems in vehicles fail to effectively detect and respond to blocked or malfunctioning imagers, leading to impaired rearview capabilities, especially under conditions like debris obstruction or extreme temperatures, which can result in unclear or unavailable images to the driver.
Innovation Solution
A blocked imager detection system that includes an actuator device coupled with an electro-optic element and a controller to adjust the position and activation state of a display module based on imager performance, deactivating the display when the imager is compromised and using a reflective coating for a clear view when necessary, and incorporating a lens cleaning apparatus to clear obstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the display module is continuously activated to provide digital rearview images, then the driver visibility is improved, but the system reliability deteriorates when the imager is blocked or malfunctioning
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives feedback from the imager about image capture quality and automatically adjusts the display module activation state. When the imager is blocked or malfunctioning, the controller detects this through feedback signals and deactivates the display module to prevent showing compromised images, thus maintaining system reliability while normally providing good driver visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the activation state of the display module based on real-time imager performance conditions. The display module transitions between active and inactive states according to the operational capability of the imager, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain reliability without sacrificing visibility when conditions are favorable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the actuator device tilts the electro-optic element to off-axis position for display mode, then the digital image display capability is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electro-optic element serves multiple functions: it acts as a display surface when tilted to the off-axis position for digital image display, and as a reflective mirror when in the on-axis position for traditional rearview reflection. This multi-functionality allows a single component to provide both digital display and traditional mirror capabilities, reducing the need for separate components and thereby managing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator device enables dynamic repositioning of the electro-optic element between on-axis and off-axis positions, allowing the system to switch between traditional mirror mode and digital display mode. This dynamic adjustability provides versatility in display capabilities while using a single movable component rather than multiple fixed components, helping to manage overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If the display module is deactivated when imager is compromised, then the system reliability is improved, but the driver visibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
When the imager is compromised and the display module is deactivated, the system inverts to the traditional mirror mode by positioning the electro-optic element in the on-axis position. Instead of relying on the failed digital imaging path, the system switches to the alternative optical path through reflection, providing driver visibility through the proven mirror mechanism when the digital imager fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for potential imager failure by having the electro-optic element capable of switching to the on-axis reflective position in advance. This pre-configured alternative pathway ensures that when the imager is compromised, the driver visibility is maintained through the backup mirror mode, cushioning against the visibility loss that would otherwise occur.
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
Ensures the reliability of the rearview system by automatically deactivating the display module when the imager is impaired, providing a clear reflected image through the electro-optic element when conditions are unfavorable, thus maintaining driver visibility and flexibility in system operation.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective coating formed over a second substrate... when the controller determines that the operational capability of the imager to capture images is at least partially diminished, the controller can generate a control signal indicating that imager performance has been compromised and deactivate the display module
Data Source
AI summary
A blocked imager detection system includes a rearview assembly having an actuator device. The actuator device is adjustable to tilt an electro-optic element, thereby moving the electro-optic element to an off-axis position which changes an activation state of a display module. The actuator device is also adjustable to tilt the electro-optic element in another direction, thereby moving the electro-optic element to an on-axis position which changes the activation state of the display module. An imager is configured to capture image data of a scene external to the controlled vehicle and to generate image data for display on the display module. When a controller determines that the operational capability of the imager to capture image data is at least partially diminished, the controller can generate a control signal indicating that imager performance has been compromised and deactivate the display module.