Intelligent Rear View Mirror System with Eye Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle rear view mirrors can become ineffective if the driver's position changes, such as when leaning forward, leading to reduced visibility and potential safety hazards from adjusting the mirror while driving.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent rear view mirror system that automatically adjusts to the driver's height and position using multiple actuation devices and a camera to capture the driver's eye location, ensuring the mirror's line of sight bisects the driver's eyes and the rear window, with the ability to continuously adjust in 'follow' mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the driver manually adjusts the rear view mirror, then the mirror position can be optimized for visibility, but the driver's attention is diverted from vehicle operation reducing safety
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror system performs self-adjustment by detecting the driver's eye position via camera and automatically repositioning itself to maintain optimal visibility, eliminating the need for manual intervention and keeping the driver's attention on the road
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the driver's eye position through camera feedback and automatically adjusts the mirror position to maintain optimal alignment, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to driver movements
2Reliability
If the driver repositions themselves to see better in the mirror, then visibility may improve, but the mirror becomes ineffective when the driver leans forward
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror system transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position that automatically adapts to the driver's seating position and movements, maintaining optimal visibility regardless of driver posture
Solution Approach 2:
The camera continuously tracks the driver's eye position and provides feedback to the actuation system, enabling real-time mirror adjustment that adapts to driver repositioning and maintains effective visibility
3Reliability
If the rear view mirror is fixed in position, then the system is simple and reliable, but it becomes ineffective when driver position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror system integrates multiple functions including driver eye detection via camera, automatic position calculation, and self-adjustment capabilities into a single multi-functional unit that maintains effectiveness across varying driver positions
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated electro-mechanical system that uses camera-based eye detection and actuation devices to automatically position the mirror, reducing the need for driver intervention
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a rear view mirror system that is configured to adjust to a user's position without direct user interaction. In some embodiments, a camera may be included in the rear view mirror system so that its line of sight is perpendicular to a reflective surface. The camera may capture a digital image of the user. Eye patterns may be identified from the image information to determine an appropriate position for the mirror. In some embodiments, the mirror may be repositioned so that the camera's line of sight is directed halfway between the identified eye information and the center of a rear window. In some embodiments, the mirror may be re-adjusted periodically.