Rear View Camera System with Image Merging for Blind Spot Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rear view systems in vehicles suffer from blind spots due to mirror placement and size limitations, obstruction by interior objects, and glare, which can be distracting and confusing for drivers, especially when reversing.
Innovation Solution
A rearview camera system that combines external and internal camera images to provide a wide, unobstructed view on a display near the windshield, using augmented reality to overlay internal objects on the external view, allowing drivers to see through obstructions and maintain a clear frame of reference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If an externally-mounted side view mirror is used, then the field of view is improved, but blind spots still occur due to mounting location limitations and interference by other solid vehicle structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single 2D mirror surface to a 3D camera-based system that captures images from multiple angles and dimensions, allowing the driver to view rear and side areas that are inaccessible to conventional mirrors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical mirror system with an electronic camera and display system, eliminating the physical constraints of mirror mounting locations and allowing flexible positioning of the image display on the dashboard or windshield
2Ease of operation
If the rear view mirror is center-located, then it provides a direct rearward view, but the view is blocked by increased head rest size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rearward viewing function from the center-located mirror and relocates it to external camera positions that are not blocked by interior objects, while the image is displayed in the original mirror location
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an external camera as an intermediary device that captures the rearward view from an unobstructed position outside the vehicle, transmitting the image to the display system for the driver's view
3Reliability
If a backup camera is used, then the rear view is made clear, but the video is distracting and confusing during forward driving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system dynamic by allowing the driver to switch between forward-facing and rearward-facing camera views, and to adjust the display content based on driving conditions, reducing distraction when not needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system that can display forward view, rearward view, or combinations thereof, allowing the same display infrastructure to serve multiple purposes and reducing the need for separate backup camera systems
4Shape
If the back window is made small for styling considerations, then vehicle aesthetics are improved, but the rear view mirror view is obscured by dirt, frost, or snow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical view through the back window with an electronic camera system positioned externally, eliminating the window glass from the optical path and thus eliminating problems with dirt, frost, and snow obscuration
Data Source
AI summary
A rearward viewing system for an automotive vehicle comprises an image display mounted proximate to a front windshield of the vehicle. An exterior image sensor captures a first image directed externally of the vehicle with a first field of view. An internal image sensor captures a second image directed internally of the vehicle with a second field of view. An image integrator merges the first and second images according to a predetermined alignment of the first and second fields of view, wherein the second image is muted in the merged image so that the first image is emphasized when displayed on the image display.