Vehicle Rear Camera Image Synthesis for Blind Spot Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing systems for vehicle-mounted cameras struggle to generate a clear see-through view by synthesizing images from fisheye and narrow-angle cameras, as they either suffer from low image quality due to wide visual fields or large blind spots due to narrow visual fields.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that includes a side camera, a fisheye camera, and a narrow-angle camera, where the images are synthesized based on a projection plane calculated by a distance sensor, with the synthesizing means determining whether to complement blind spots using the second image, and adjusting the synthesis to maintain image quality by switching between camera types based on predetermined conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a fisheye camera with a large angle of view is used for the rear camera, then the imaging range is improved and blind spots are reduced, but the image quality deteriorates due to large aberration and distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rear camera function into two separate cameras: a fisheye camera for wide-angle coverage and a narrow-angle camera for high-quality imaging. Each camera is optimized for its specific function, and their images are selectively synthesized based on viewing conditions, resolving the contradiction between wide imaging range and high image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically selects and synthesizes images from different cameras based on the distance to the backward vehicle. When the vehicle is far, the fisheye camera provides the view; when close, the narrow-angle camera is used. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize between imaging range and image quality based on real-time conditions.
2Measurement precision
If a narrow-angle camera is used for the rear camera, then the image quality is improved with small aberration, but the blind spot increases when the backward vehicle approaches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging function into two specialized cameras: a narrow-angle camera optimized for image quality and a fisheye camera optimized for wide coverage. By synthesizing their outputs based on distance conditions, the system overcomes the limited imaging range of the narrow-angle camera while preserving its high image quality advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the effective field of view parameter by switching between cameras based on distance. The system uses the narrow-angle camera's high-quality images when distance allows, and transitions to the fisheye camera's wide-angle view when the vehicle approaches, effectively adapting the imaging parameter to the situation.
3Device complexity
If only one camera is used for rear imaging, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to maintain image quality across varying distances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional rear imaging system where two cameras serve different purposes. The fisheye camera handles wide-angle distant views, while the narrow-angle camera handles close-up high-quality views. This universal system adapts to various driving conditions, providing appropriate image quality for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the rear imaging function into two specialized cameras, the system achieves versatility across different distances and conditions. Each camera is optimized for specific conditions, and the synthesis mechanism selects the appropriate camera output, providing adaptability that a single camera cannot achieve.
Data Source
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AI summary
To provide an image processing apparatus capable of sharpening synthesis of images captured by a plurality of imaging means. An image processing apparatus includes: side cameras (110L and 110R) attached to a side portion of a vehicle and configured to provide an image obtained by capturing the rear of the side portion including a vehicle body region; a fisheye camera (120) attached to a rear portion of the vehicle and configured to provide an image including the rear of the vehicle captured at a wide angle of view; a narrow-angle camera (130) attached to the rear portion of the vehicle and configured to provide an image including the rear of the vehicle captured at a narrow angle of view; and a synthesizing means configured to synthesize the image of the fisheye camera (120) and the image of the narrow-angle camera (130) corresponding to the vehicle body region of the image of the side camera (110) in the vehicle body region.