Vehicle Camera Calibration via Projected Reference Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle camera systems face challenges in accurately calibrating camera positions and detecting peripheral objects due to positional deviations, which can lead to safety issues and require separate calibration apparatuses and environments.
Innovation Solution
An image acquisition apparatus comprising a projector to irradiate a reference pattern onto the ground, a first camera unit to capture the pattern, and a control unit to analyze and process images from a second camera unit, allowing for accurate image correction and object detection without the need for separate calibration fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If calibration is performed using separate apparatus and environment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the calibration function with the vehicle's existing camera system by projecting reference patterns onto the ground and using the vehicle's own cameras to capture them. This eliminates the need for separate calibration apparatus while maintaining calibration accuracy through the use of known geometric patterns and coordinate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle's camera system performs its own calibration using the projector and ground pattern. The system uses the vehicle's existing hardware (cameras, processors) to calibrate itself by capturing images of the projected reference pattern and calculating camera parameters through image processing algorithms.
2Manufacturing precision
If calibration is performed in separate apparatus and environment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to perform calibration themselves using the vehicle's own equipment. The automated image processing and parameter calculation eliminate the need for specialized calibration facilities, making the operation simple and accessible to regular maintenance personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system uses the vehicle's existing camera hardware for both operational imaging and calibration purposes. The same cameras used for driving assistance also capture calibration patterns, eliminating the need for dedicated calibration equipment and simplifying the overall system.
3Reliability
If camera position correction is performed, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors camera images and compares them against expected geometric relationships derived from the reference pattern. When deviations are detected, the system automatically calculates correction parameters and adjusts the camera position data, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that improves reliability without requiring complex manual intervention.
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 provides high accuracy and reliability in image acquisition, enabling quick recognition of peripheral objects and safe driving conditions by correcting camera positions and synthesizing images for Around View Monitoring, while minimizing infrared pattern loss in daytime environments.
Implementation Method 1
a projector for irradiating a reference pattern onto the ground, a first camera unit for capturing the reference pattern irradiated by the projector
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiment relates to image acquisition and, in particular, to an image acquisition apparatus for acquiring images by a camera installed in a vehicle, and a method therefor. The image acquisition apparatus according to the present embodiment comprises: a projector for illuminating a reference pattern to the ground; a first camera unit for capturing an image of the reference pattern illuminated by the projector; a second camera unit for capturing an image; and a control unit for analyzing a pattern captured by the first camera unit and processing the image captured by the second camera unit.