Multi-Camera Alignment Using Projected Ground Light Patterns
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle camera systems require manual calibration of multiple cameras, which is time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies, especially when cameras are physically moved or adjusted.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a light projector to project a light pattern onto the ground, allowing a processing circuitry to align distance overlay lines with portions of the emitted light pattern from multiple cameras, enabling automatic alignment without the need for manual adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration is used to align multiple cameras, then the alignment can be performed with simple equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
A light projector is introduced as an intermediary device to project a light pattern onto the ground that serves as a reference for camera alignment. The light pattern acts as a mediator between the calibration system and the cameras, enabling automatic detection and alignment of camera positions and orientations without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment process is replaced with an automated optical system. Instead of physically adjusting camera mounts by hand, the system uses a light projector to create a reference pattern that is captured by the cameras, and processing circuitry automatically calculates the alignment parameters, substituting mechanical manual operation with automated optical-mechanical systems.
2Reliability
If manual alignment of overlay distance lines is performed, then the driver can personally verify the alignment, but the driver must leave the vehicle to perform the alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification of alignment by automatically processing the light pattern images captured by the cameras. The processing circuitry independently calculates whether the cameras are properly aligned based on the light pattern geometry, eliminating the need for the driver to manually verify alignment by exiting the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to the driver about the alignment status through the display device. The overlay lines and light pattern visualization give the driver immediate feedback on whether alignment is correct, allowing verification while remaining inside the vehicle.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are used for different purposes, then the system can enhance safety and improve driving experience, but the complexity of calibrating all cameras increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light projector serves multiple functions: it projects a reference pattern for alignment, provides visual feedback during calibration, and enables verification of camera positions. This single device supports the calibration of multiple cameras with different functions (rearview, sideview, backup cameras) without requiring different calibration methods for each camera type.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 1D~2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A computer system (700) comprising processing circuitry (702) is provided. The system is configured to project, from at least one light projector (60) of a vehicle (10), a light pattern (62) onto a ground (G) spanning field views of a first camera (50a) and a second camera (50b), obtain first image data (54a) from the first camera (50a) and second image data (54b) from the second camera (50b), align a first distance overlay line (56a) with a first portion (63a) of the emitted light pattern (62) of the first image data (54a), and align a second distance overlay line (56b) with a second portion (63b) of the emitted light pattern of the second image data (54b).