Steering-Linked Image Section Selection for Reversing Camera Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing imaging systems for vehicle technology, such as all-round vision systems using multiple cameras, face challenges in providing adequate detail resolution due to limited display unit space, leading to distant objects being undisplayed, especially when reversing, as the current bird's-eye view representation compromises between area and resolution.
Innovation Solution
The system dynamically adjusts the displayed image section of the reversing camera based on the vehicle's steering angle, using an image processing unit that receives steering angle information and additional parameters like speed and vehicle geometry, and employs a curved virtual projection surface aligned perpendicular to the road, allowing for distortion correction and automatic switching between front and rear views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the entire detection range of the rear-view camera is displayed when reversing, then the user can see the full area around the vehicle, but the detail resolution on the display unit becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the entire detection range into multiple selectable image sections. Instead of displaying the complete detection area simultaneously, the system segments the view into different regions (e.g., left, center, right sections) that can be individually selected and displayed. This segmentation allows the display unit to show a focused section with adequate resolution while still providing access to the full detection range through section switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by enhancing the resolution and detail of specific image sections that are currently displayed. By focusing computational resources and display real estate on a selected section rather than distributing them across the entire detection range, the system achieves superior image quality for the active view. The system dynamically adjusts which section receives the highest quality processing based on the vehicle's movement direction.
2Ease of operation
If a bird's-eye view representation is used to show the area around the vehicle, then the driver can orient themselves in the vicinity, but distant objects outside the display area are not shown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic section selection based on the vehicle's movement direction. The system continuously monitors steering angle and vehicle trajectory, then dynamically adjusts which image section is displayed to match the direction of movement. This dynamic adaptation ensures that the displayed section always contains relevant information about distant objects in the vehicle's path, while maintaining the orientation benefits of the bird's-eye view representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from steering angle sensors and movement detection to automatically adjust the displayed image section. The feedback loop continuously compares the vehicle's actual movement direction with the currently displayed section and switches sections to ensure the relevant area remains visible. This feedback mechanism prevents information loss about distant objects by keeping the appropriate view section active based on real-time vehicle behavior.
3Area of stationary object
If the display unit size is kept small due to limited installation space, then the system fits in the vehicle, but small objects can only be displayed inadequately
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the detection range into multiple focused sections, the system allows each section to be displayed at full resolution on the compact display unit. Instead of attempting to show all areas at reduced size, the segmentation approach enables the display to present one high-resolution section at a time, making small objects adequately visible despite the limited display area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional compromise (showing large area at low resolution) to a time-dimensional solution (showing different high-resolution sections sequentially). By adding the time dimension through dynamic section switching, the system effectively provides multiple high-resolution views over time, compensating for the limited spatial dimensions of the display unit.
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging driver assistance system comprising at least one camera (K1-K4) with a wide-angle lens, an image processing unit, and a display unit. The image processing unit generates a composite, virtual view from the camera images, corresponding to a projection onto a cylinder with an elliptical base surrounding the vehicle. A section of this virtual view is displayed on the display unit. The image section displayed on the display unit is dynamically adjusted depending on the current steering angle, so that the image area shown always reflects the area toward which the vehicle is moving based on an estimated direction of travel. The application of the invention lies in supporting the driver during parking and maneuvering operations.By adjusting the image display to the steering angle, the part of the image relevant to the driver can be displayed larger on the screen, as irrelevant parts of the image can be omitted. This allows objects in the area of the vehicle's estimated direction of travel to be displayed larger and more clearly.