Headlamp Structured-Light Control for 3D Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single-camera vision systems in automobiles are limited in capturing 3D surface geometry and distance to objects, unlike RADAR and LiDAR systems, which hinders their ability to detect and distinguish 3D objects effectively.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle lighting system comprising two hybridized devices with patterned light emitting arrays and a controller, which projects patterned lights onto objects and captures images using a camera to reconstruct surface geometry and determine distance through structured-light 3D surface imaging techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single-camera vision system is used, then the system complexity is low, but the ability to capture 3D surface geometry and distance to objects is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the headlamp illumination system with a structured light projection system and integrates a camera for capture. By merging these functions into a unified system, it achieves 3D surface geometry capture capability without requiring completely separate complex imaging equipment, thus improving measurement precision while controlling device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces patterned light as an intermediary between the light source and the object. By projecting structured light patterns onto the object surface and capturing the reflected light with a camera, the system enables 3D surface geometry measurement through light modulation and analysis
2Measurement precision
If RADAR or LiDAR systems are used, then the ability to detect 3D objects is improved, but the system cannot recognize colors and read text on road signs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera-based vision system that operates in the visible spectrum, enabling it to perform multiple functions including 3D surface geometry capture, color recognition, and text reading on road signs. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for separate specialized sensors for different detection tasks
3Measurement precision
If conventional headlamps are used, then the illumination function is simple, but the ability to project patterned light for 3D imaging is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the headlamp light emitting array into controllable individual or groups of light sources that can be selectively activated to form different light patterns. This segmentation enables precise patterned light projection for structured light imaging while maintaining the headlamp's primary illumination function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the light emitting devices to switch between different illumination modes: full illumination for general lighting and patterned projection for 3D imaging. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to perform multiple functions without requiring completely separate static systems
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
Enhances the ability to capture 3D surface geometry and determine distances to objects, improving the detection and recognition of 3D objects, especially in autonomous driving applications.
Implementation Method 1
The first hybridized device includes a first array of light emitting devices that illuminate a roadway on which the vehicle is located when operating. The second hybridized device includes a second array of light emitting devices that illuminate the roadway on which the vehicle is located when operating.
Implementation Method 2
causes a first camera to capture an image of the first patterned light projected on the object and the second patterned light projected on the object
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system for a vehicle is described, which includes a first hybridized device, a second hybridized device and a controller. The first hybridized device includes a first array of light emitting devices that illuminate a roadway on which the vehicle is located when operating. The second hybridized device includes a second array of light emitting devices that illuminate the roadway on which the vehicle is located when operating. The controller is electrically coupled to the first and second hybridized devices. When operating, the controller causes the first hybridized device to selectively project a first patterned light on to an object on the roadway, causes the first hybridized device to selectively project a second patterned light on to the object on the roadway, and causes a first camera to capture an image of the first patterned light projected on the object and the second patterned light projected on the object.