Rear View Mirror Camera Calibration for Stable Monitor View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera monitor systems for vehicles often require external positioning of cameras, which can alter the driver's view based on the orientation of rear view mirrors, compromising driving security and requiring additional mechanical adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A rear view mirror system with a camera integrated inside the mirror head, where a control unit processes images to maintain a constant monitor view regardless of the mirror's orientation, using image processing and calibration to adjust for changes in the camera's position relative to the mirror element, allowing the camera to record views through the mirror element and providing a stable image on the monitor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the camera is positioned inside the rear view mirror housing, then the vehicle's outer surface is not altered and space is saved, but the monitor view becomes dependent on the mirror orientation which compromises driving security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical dependency between mirror orientation and camera view with an electronic/image processing solution. The control unit detects mirror orientation changes and applies corresponding image transformations to the camera feed, substituting mechanical alignment requirements with software-based view correction that maintains driving security while keeping the camera integrated in the mirror housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes image parameters (orientation, position, scaling) based on the detected mirror orientation. When the mirror orientation changes, the control unit transforms the camera image parameters accordingly to maintain a consistent monitor view, resolving the contradiction between integrated camera positioning and view stability.
2Ease of operation
If the mirror orientation is adjusted to suit different drivers, then the driver's view is optimized, but the camera monitor view changes accordingly which affects viewing consistency
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the control unit continuously monitors mirror orientation and automatically adjusts the camera image transformation parameters in response. This feedback mechanism ensures that regardless of mirror position adjustments for different drivers, the monitor view remains consistent and optimized for driving security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic image transformation that adapts to changing mirror orientations. The system transitions from a static camera view dependent on fixed mirror position to a dynamic view that automatically compensates for mirror adjustments, maintaining monitor view consistency while preserving mirror adjustability.
3Area of moving object
If a convex mirror is used to provide wide angle view, then the field of view is expanded, but the captured images become distorted requiring complex image processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flat or planar transparent/translucent mirror element as an intermediary between the camera and the external environment. This intermediary provides a wide field of view without the severe distortion characteristics of convex mirrors, simplifying the image processing requirements while still achieving the goal of expanded viewing angle.
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
Enables the installation of a camera monitor system without altering the vehicle's outer surface, ensuring a consistent and secure view for the driver regardless of the camera's orientation, maintaining image quality and avoiding mechanical adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a mirror element (23) arranged in the rear view mirror head (22) being transparent or translucent from inside of the rear view mirror head (22), wherein an actuator (3) enables adjusting an orientation of the mirror element (23) by rotating and/or tilting the mirror element (23) and/or the rear view mirror head (22), wherein a camera (4) is arranged in the inside of the rear view mirror head (22) behind the mirror element (23) for recording a camera view with a first viewing angle of the surroundings of the vehicle (10) at least through the mirror element (23)
Data Source
AI summary
A rear view mirror system for motor vehicles comprising a rear view mirror device that comprises a rear view mirror base to be attached to a vehicle, a rear view mirror head attached to the rear view mirror base, and a mirror element arranged in the rear view mirror head and being transparent or translucent from inside of the rear view mirror head. An actuator enables an orientation of the mirror element to be adjusted by rotating and/or tilting the mirror element and/or the rear view mirror head. A camera is arranged inside the rear view mirror head behind the mirror element for recording a camera view (CV) with a first viewing angle of the surroundings of the vehicle at least through the mirror element, wherein a control unit processes the camera view (CV) received form the camera to provide a monitor view (MV) with a second viewing angle being smaller than the first viewing angle being displayed on a monitor to provide the monitor view (MV) to a driver of the vehicle.