Multi-channel Optical Image Fetching Apparatus for Vehicle Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle safety monitoring systems face issues with image distortion and discontinuity when integrating multiple camera views, leading to incomplete coverage of a vehicle's surroundings, which can result in accidents due to blind spots.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel optical image fetching apparatus using optical polarizers, birefractive polarization transformers, and a programmable time sequence controller to process and switch images from different visual angles, ensuring seamless integration and wide visual coverage without mechanical movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are used to provide images of visions around the vehicle, then the coverage of surroundings is improved, but image distortion and discontinuity appear at seaming places
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the surround view into multiple optical channels (first optical channel, second optical channel, etc.) with separate optical polarizers and imaging paths. Each channel captures a specific portion of the surrounding environment, and the segmented images are then processed and combined to form a complete omnidirectional view, resolving the contradiction between wide coverage and seam quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical birefractive polarization transformer as an intermediary component between the optical polarizers and the imaging unit. This transformer mediates the optical signals by controlling polarization states to switch between different optical channels, enabling seamless image integration without mechanical movement and eliminating distortion at seaming places
2Ease of operation
If mechanical optical switch is used to switch optical paths, then the switching function is achieved, but switching time is long and size is too big
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical optical switch with an optical birefractive polarization transformer that uses electrical control of polarization states to switch optical paths. This substitution eliminates mechanical movement, reducing switching time and system size while maintaining the optical path switching function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical position to electrical voltage/polarization state. The optical birefractive polarization transformer responds to voltage changes to alter polarization states, which in turn switches the optical path. This parameter change enables faster, more compact switching compared to mechanical approaches
3Measurement precision
If crystal chip is used to control polarization for switching, then the component precision is improved, but errors still exist and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical birefractive polarization transformers that can perform multiple functions: polarization control, optical path switching, and image selection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, simplifying the overall system while maintaining high precision through the unified polarization-based control mechanism
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
The apparatus provides stable, distortion-free, and seamless image integration across multiple channels, enhancing driver visibility and safety by covering all directions around a vehicle, reducing blind spots and improving accident prevention.
Implementation Method 1
the optical birefractive polarization transformers process polar transformation to the inlet lights through controlling voltage
Implementation Method 2
the polarized lights splitter is set at an end of the optical imaging lens set and is an optical logic switch to control output directions of a plurality of inlet lights
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an apparatus for fetching optical images. Images from multiple channels are obtained. A device is used to automatically switch the images. The switching is based on time-sharing multiplexing (TSM). Thus, the images are formed on another device. The images are then integrated and displayed to be used in an optical vehicle safety assistant system.