Rear-View Vision System Blind Spot Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current camera-based rear-view vision systems for vehicles face challenges in providing clear visual information due to multiple image capture devices creating confusion, lack of stereoscopic view for judging distances, and increased field of view leading to distortion and driver distraction, while also requiring additional wiring and cost for multiple camera installations.

Innovation Solution

The use of two exterior video sensors arranged in rear view mirrors with overlapping views to minimize blind spots and support lane changes, eliminating the need for additional wiring by leveraging existing electrical connections, and incorporating sensors with adjustable angles to enhance detection range and accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple image capture devices are positioned at various locations to reduce blind spots, then blind spot coverage is improved, but device complexity and visual information confusion increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblind spot coverageVSAvoidnumber of image capture devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the rear-view field into multiple zones (central rear view, side rear views, blind spot areas) and assigns different camera angles and display regions to cover each zone, achieving comprehensive blind spot coverage through functional segmentation rather than simply adding more cameras

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple image capture devices are used to reduce blind spots, then blind spot detection is improved, but the system requires additional wiring and installation complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblind spot detectionVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the rear window serve multiple functions: it acts as both the viewing surface for the central rear view camera and the mounting surface for side rear view cameras, while also serving its traditional function. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting structures and reduces wiring complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes existing vehicle electrical connections and the rear window structure itself to support the camera system, rather than requiring additional dedicated wiring harnesses and mounting hardware, thereby reducing installation complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a wide-angle lens is used to increase field of view, then blind spot reduction is improved, but image distortion increases and distance judgment becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of view coverageVSAvoiddistance judgment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent assigns different camera angles and fields of view to different spatial zones: central rear view cameras provide narrow, distortion-free views for distance judgment, while side cameras provide wider angles for blind spot coverage, with each zone optimized for its specific function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system compensates for the loss of stereoscopic depth perception by adding a temporal dimension through sequential camera operations and a spatial dimension through multiple camera positions, creating a synthesized multi-dimensional view that restores distance judgment capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Weight of moving object

If camera systems are used instead of conventional mirrors, then wind drag and weight are reduced, but the ability to judge distances at close separations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle weightVSAvoiddistance judgment at close range
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary image processing to calculate and display distance information before the driver needs to judge it, using the captured image data to compute separation distances and present this information in an easily interpretable format on the display device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8537221B2Lane change control system
Publication Date: 2013.09.17 SMR PATENTS S A R L
  • US8537221B2 patent drawing
  • US8537221B2 patent drawing
  • US8537221B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention relates generally to vision systems for vehicles and, more particularly, to rear-view vision systems which provide the vehicle operator with scenic information in the direction rearward of the vehicle. More particularly, the invention relates to a rear-view vision system utilizing image capture devices, such as CMOS imaging arrays in external rear view mirrors to support lane change in a driver assistant system.