Reconfigurable Calibration System for Vehicular Surround Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle imaging systems face challenges in calibrating multiple cameras for different vehicle sizes and types, leading to suboptimal calibration results due to fixed calibration targets and varying camera positions, which affects the precision and accuracy of merged images.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable calibration system that includes adjustable calibration targets and a laser emitting device to project patterns onto the ground, allowing for adaptive calibration of camera positions and image processing to provide a seamless top-down view, accommodating various vehicle sizes and types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed calibration targets are used, then calibration process is simple, but calibration precision deteriorates for different vehicle sizes and types
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system employs adjustable calibration targets that can be reconfigured for different vehicle sizes and types. The targets include adjustable positioning mechanisms and reconfigurable patterns that adapt to various camera positions and vehicle geometries, transforming a static calibration approach into a dynamic one that maintains precision across different calibration scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system is designed with universal calibration targets that can serve multiple vehicle types and sizes. The targets incorporate adjustable elements and reconfigurable patterns that allow a single calibration system to accommodate sedans, SUVs, trucks, and other vehicle configurations, eliminating the need for separate calibration equipment for each vehicle type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If calibration targets are made adjustable for different vehicle types, then calibration precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system divides the calibration target into multiple independent, adjustable segments. Each segment can be positioned and configured separately to match different vehicle geometries and camera positions. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to various vehicle types while keeping each individual component relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system utilizes adjustable parameters such as target position, orientation, and pattern configuration that can be modified based on the specific vehicle type being calibrated. By changing these parameters rather than redesigning the entire calibration system, the patent achieves high adaptability with minimal increase in overall system complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are used for surround view, then image coverage is improved, but image merging accuracy deteriorates due to calibration challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system introduces laser emitting devices as intermediaries to project precise reference patterns and alignment markers that are visible to multiple cameras simultaneously. These laser projections serve as common reference points that facilitate accurate calibration of multiple cameras, enabling precise image merging across the entire surround view coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system performs preliminary calibration of multiple cameras using adjustable targets and laser reference patterns before actual operation. This preliminary calibration establishes accurate spatial relationships and transformation parameters for all cameras, ensuring that when images are merged during normal operation, they align precisely across the full coverage area without distortion or misalignment.
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
Enhances the precision and accuracy of camera calibration across different vehicle types and sizes, ensuring optimal image merging and display for drivers, and allows for recalibration of decalibrated cameras in aftermarket settings.
Implementation Method 1
the calibration system or method may utilize a laser emitting device to project or emit a laser line cross or grid onto a ground surface
Data Source
AI summary
A camera calibration method for calibrating at least one camera of a vehicle includes providing a target area for a vehicle to be positioned at, with the vehicle having a forward camera, a rearward camera and opposite side cameras. When the vehicle is positioned at the target area, a target is electronically generated at an area that is encompassed by the field of view of one of the cameras or at an overlapping portion of the fields of view of two of the cameras of the vehicle. Image data is captured by the two cameras that is representative of the generated target. Image data captured by the two cameras is processed to detect the target in the fields of view of the two cameras. At least one of the two cameras is calibrated responsive to detection of the target.