Stereoscopic Range Determination for Roadway Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional parking space detection systems face accuracy issues due to weather and lighting conditions, and are costly and time-consuming to install, often relying on RFID or single-camera solutions that are not reliable.
Innovation Solution
A stereoscopic range determination system using two cameras with different viewing angles, a data processor, and a power supply, which calculates valid range data to determine parking space occupancy, reducing reliance on direct viewing and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single-camera or RFID detection systems are used, then installation is simpler, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to weather and lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-camera 2D imaging to dual-camera stereoscopic 3D vision, adding a depth dimension. This enables range calculation through triangulation, improving detection accuracy by providing spatial information that single-camera systems lack, while maintaining reasonable system complexity through integration with existing lighting infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates parking detection functionality into existing roadway lighting poles, making the lighting infrastructure multi-functional. The same pole structure supports both lighting and stereoscopic vision sensors, reducing the need for separate installation infrastructure and lowering overall system complexity despite the enhanced detection capabilities
2Reliability
If conventional RFID or single-camera systems are deployed, then installation cost is lower, but detection reliability deteriorates in adverse weather and lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
By adding the depth dimension through stereoscopic vision, the system achieves reliable detection in adverse conditions where single-camera systems fail. The 3D spatial information provides robust occupancy verification that is less susceptible to weather and lighting variations, while installation is simplified by utilizing existing lighting pole infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the existing roadway lighting pole as an intermediary structure to mount the camera system. This mediator provides a stable, pre-positioned platform that simplifies installation compared to ground-level mounting, while the elevated position improves viewing angles and reduces obstruction from ground-level objects
3Measurement precision
If conventional detection systems are installed, then installation time is shorter, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting poles serve dual purposes as both illumination structures and mounting platforms for the camera system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate installation of dedicated sensor poles or structures, reducing installation time while achieving accurate stereoscopic range determination through the integrated camera system
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
The system effectively determines parking space occupancy with increased accuracy and reduced installation costs by using stereoscopic range determination, minimizing errors caused by weather and lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a first camera and a second camera disposed a predetermined distance apart in a fixed position. Each camera captures a respective one of the images
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a system that includes a first camera and a second camera each configured to capture image data from respective viewing angles, and a data processor coupled with the first camera and the second camera, that receives the image data, calculates a range based on the image data received and validates the calculated range for a parking space.