Distributed Vehicle Vision System with Redundant Camera Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle vision systems using stereo cameras often rely on a single processing device and shared power sources, which can limit redundancy and flexibility in image processing and data communication, particularly in complex driving scenarios or failures of components.
Innovation Solution
The system employs two or more independent cameras with distributed redundant processing, separate power supplies, and multiple communication links, allowing for independent image processing and data sharing between cameras, enhancing redundancy and flexibility in image data processing and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single processing device and shared power sources are used in vehicle vision systems, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to limited redundancy and flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the vision system into independent camera units, each with its own processing device and power supply. This segmentation allows individual components to fail without affecting the entire system, thereby improving reliability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
Each camera unit is equipped with dedicated local processing and power supply resources tailored to its specific operational needs. This local quality approach enables independent operation and enhances system reliability by eliminating single points of failure, while the overall system complexity remains controlled through standardized modular units
2Reliability
If distributed redundant processing with separate power supplies and multiple communication links is implemented, then reliability is improved through redundancy, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent camera modules, each containing its own processing unit and power supply. This segmentation creates redundant components that can operate independently, improving reliability while the modular nature keeps complexity manageable through replication of standardized units
Solution Approach 2:
Each camera unit is designed as a universal module that can function independently or in coordination with other units. The multi-functionality of these standardized modules allows the system to achieve redundancy without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same module design can be replicated and configured in various ways
Data Source
AI summary
A vision system for a vehicle includes first and second camera modules disposed at the vehicle so as to have respective first and second fields of view exterior of the vehicle. The first camera module includes a first lens and a first imager, and is operable to capture image data. The second camera module includes a second lens and a second imager, and is operable to capture image data. The first camera module is powered by a first power supply line and the second camera module is powered by a second power supply line. The first camera module includes an image processor operable to process image data captured by the first camera module and the second camera module. The second camera module comprises a second image processor operable to process image data captured by the first camera module and the second camera module.