Stray-light Testing Cart for Onboard Camera Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack an efficient method to characterize the stray-light performance of onboard cameras on vehicles under various ambient conditions, particularly when exposed to high-intensity light sources like the sun, which affects camera performance and is influenced by ambient environment.
Innovation Solution
A stray-light testing apparatus with a spatially extended light source and a shrouding mechanism is used to simulate stray-light conditions by positioning the optical assembly within the camera's field of view, reducing ambient light exposure and allowing controlled light exposure to assess camera performance across various angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a shrouding mechanism is used to block ambient light, then measurement precision of stray-light performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing apparatus is divided into separate functional modules: a movable cart for positioning, a shrouding mechanism for light blocking, and an optical assembly for light delivery. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system by assigning specific functions to discrete units.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful ambient light is extracted and blocked from the camera's field of view using the shrouding mechanism, while the useful test light from the optical assembly is allowed to reach the camera. This separation enables precise measurement of stray-light performance by eliminating environmental interference.
2Measurement precision
If the optical assembly is positioned within the camera's field of view, then measurement accuracy of stray-light performance is improved, but reliability of ambient light blocking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shrouding mechanism provides localized light blocking specifically around the camera's field of view, while leaving the optical path from the optical assembly to the camera unobstructed. This selective approach ensures that only ambient light is blocked while test light can reach the camera for accurate measurements.
3Ease of operation
If adjustable alignment features are used to guide positioning, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features are designed to be adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the optical assembly to be dynamically positioned to match different camera locations and orientations on various vehicle models. This adjustability simplifies operation across diverse testing scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable alignment features enable the same testing apparatus to be used with multiple camera types and positions, as well as different vehicle models. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized fixtures while maintaining ease of operation.
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
This solution enables precise calibration of onboard cameras to improve their performance under stray-light conditions, reducing operator error and enhancing efficiency in measuring stray-light performance by simulating solar illumination and assessing environmental impacts on the camera's optical surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
the spatially extended light source is generated in part using an off-axis parabolic mirror
Implementation Method 2
includes one or more neutral density filters
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus for a stray-light testing apparatus. In one aspect, the apparatus includes an optical assembly including a spatially extended light source and one or more optical elements arranged to direct light from the spatially extended light source along an optical path, a moveable frame supporting the optical assembly including one or more adjustable alignment features for guiding positioning of the stray-light testing apparatus relative to an onboard camera on a vehicle, and a shrouding mechanism attached to the frame and positioned on the frame such that, when the stray-light testing apparatus is aligned relative to the onboard camera on the vehicle and the optical path of the optical assembly is within the field of view of the onboard camera, ambient light exposure for the onboard camera is below a threshold.