Vehicle Outside Mirror Collision Avoidance via Camera Distance Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems lack effective methods to prevent collisions between outside mirrors and objects, particularly during the swiveling operation, as they rely on sensors which may not be necessary or accurate in all scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A process and arrangement using cameras with swiveling devices to capture and analyze picture data, determining object distance through trigonometry, allowing the swiveling device to stop or adjust the mirror position to maintain a predefined minimum distance from objects, eliminating the need for additional sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are used to detect objects and prevent mirror collisions, then collision prevention capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensors with an optical system using the existing camera and mirror geometry. Distance calculation is achieved through trigonometric computation based on camera angles and mirror positions rather than physical sensor detection, eliminating the need for additional sensors while maintaining collision prevention capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing camera infrastructure and mirror geometry to perform distance measurement and collision detection functions that would otherwise require separate sensors. The camera serves multiple purposes: capturing images for distance calculation and providing the basis for collision prevention without needing additional dedicated sensors
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are added to accurately detect object distance, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes physical distance sensors with a computational geometry approach. By using the known camera position, mirror geometry, and captured image data, the system calculates object distance through trigonometric relationships, achieving precise measurement without additional sensing hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The existing camera system is made multi-functional by using it both for capturing images and for distance measurement through geometric calculation. This universal use of the camera eliminates the need for separate distance sensors while maintaining measurement precision
3Area of stationary object
If the outside mirror is extended to improve visibility, then viewing area is improved, but collision risk with objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors object distance using the camera and geometric calculation, providing feedback to the mirror control system. When an object is detected within the minimum safe distance, the system automatically adjusts the mirror position to maintain safety while preserving maximum viewing area when safe
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror position is made dynamic and adjustable based on real-time distance measurements. The system automatically extends the mirror to maximize viewing area when no objects are present, and retracts or adjusts position when objects approach, optimizing both visibility and collision prevention
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
Effectively prevents collisions by accurately determining object distance and adjusting the outside mirror's position, enhancing safety during both extension and retraction operations without requiring additional sensors.
Implementation Method 1
first picture data of a first picture captured by the camera are provided. In addition, second picture data of a second picture captured by the camera are provided
Data Source
AI summary
In a process for operating a vehicle having an outside mirror on which a camera is arranged and which is swivelable by a swiveling device between a first end position and a second end position, first picture data and second picture data of a first picture and of a second picture captured by the camera are provided. As a function of the first and second picture data, it is determined whether an object is imaged in both pictures. If an object is imaged in both pictures, as a function of the first and second picture data, a distance from the object relative to a reference point with respect to the camera is determined. As a function of the determined distance, the swiveling device is triggered such that it contributes to the fact that the distance is greater than or equal to a predefined minimum distance value.