Vehicle Pillar Blind Spot Visualization Using Composite Camera Views
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle support pillars create blind spots in a driver's field of vision, posing a risk to the driver and others on the road.
Innovation Solution
A blind spot visualization system using sensors and displays placed on either side of vehicle pillars, which generate and combine images from visible and infrared frequency ranges to provide a composite enhanced view of the area behind the pillars, either manually or automatically activated based on vehicle turns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If support pillars are installed in the vehicle to provide structural strength and rollover safety, then vehicle safety and structural integrity are improved, but blind spots are created in the driver's field of vision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cameras and display systems as intermediary devices that capture and transmit visual information from areas blocked by support pillars. Cameras positioned on the exterior of the vehicle capture images of blind spot areas, and these images are displayed on interior surfaces such as pillars or windows, allowing the driver to see around obstructions without removing the structural pillars themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the visual information from a two-dimensional field of view blocked by pillars into a different dimensional representation by capturing images with cameras and displaying them on interior surfaces. This allows the driver to access visual information from three-dimensional space around the vehicle that would otherwise be blocked, effectively adding a new dimension to the driver's awareness.
2Loss of information
If cameras and displays are installed to eliminate blind spots, then the driver's field of vision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the camera and display system to serve multiple functions: cameras capture both visible and infrared spectra for enhanced detection, displays can show multiple image sources simultaneously, and the system integrates with existing vehicle structures. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each function, thereby managing complexity while improving blind spot coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates visual copies of the blind spot areas by capturing images with cameras and displaying them on interior surfaces. Instead of physically removing pillars or providing direct line-of-sight, the system creates accurate visual representations (copies) of the blocked areas, allowing the driver to perceive the environment as if the pillars were not present.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors including infrared sensors are used to capture images, then the detection capability and image quality are improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sensors that operate across different parameter ranges, specifically both visible and infrared frequency ranges. By utilizing infrared sensors in addition to visible light cameras, the system detects thermal signatures and objects that may not be visible in normal light conditions, thereby improving detection capability and image quality through parameter expansion.
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 eliminates blind spots created by vehicle pillars, enhancing the driver's field of vision and reducing the risk of accidents by providing a clear view of the area behind the pillars.
Implementation Method 1
Additional sensors may be added to generate images based on the infrared frequency range
Data Source
AI summary
A blind spot visualization system and method for eliminating blind spots for an operator of a vehicle. The blind spots are caused by obstructions in the vehicle. A first image based on a first frequency range, and a second image based on a second frequency range, is generated. The images of the first frequency range and the images of the second frequency range are combined to create a composite image. Displays on the obstruction, facing the operator, receive the composite image. The displays display the images to the operator so that the blind spots, caused by the obstructions in the vehicle, are eliminated.