Vehicle Camera Position Detection Using Acceleration Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

When multiple cameras are mounted on a vehicle, it is difficult for operators to identify and input the imaging positions of each camera, leading to time-consuming and labor-intensive processes, making it challenging to accurately determine the capture positions of images relative to the vehicle.

Innovation Solution

A camera position detection apparatus that utilizes a reference camera and acceleration sensors to detect the imaging positions of other cameras by acquiring information on the imaging position of the reference camera, acceleration data from both the reference and target cameras, and analyzing this data to determine the imaging positions of all cameras.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual identification and input of imaging positions for each camera is performed, then accurate position information can be obtained, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging position accuracyVSAvoidposition setting time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically detecting imaging positions using acceleration sensor data and image analysis, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention. The camera unit itself gathers necessary data and computes positions without external assistance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and visual identification with automated sensor-based detection. Acceleration sensors and image processing algorithms substitute for human operators in determining camera positions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple cameras are mounted on a vehicle, then comprehensive image coverage is achieved, but the complexity of identifying and setting each camera's position increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage coverage capabilityVSAvoidposition configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal calibration system that can handle any number of cameras mounted in various positions. The same acceleration-based methodology works regardless of camera quantity or placement, providing a unified solution for multi-camera configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses changes in acceleration parameters during vehicle movement to automatically determine camera positions. By monitoring how acceleration data varies with vehicle motion, the system infers spatial relationships without manual configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If imaging positions are not properly identified, then camera installation is simplified, but it becomes difficult to determine which vehicle positions appear in captured images

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera installation easeVSAvoidposition identification information

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback by automatically generating and storing position information based on acceleration sensor readings. This feedback loop ensures that even when cameras are installed without precise position marking, the system later determines and records the actual imaging positions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables efficient and accurate detection of imaging positions for multiple cameras mounted on a vehicle, simplifying the process of identifying and setting the correct capture positions, thereby facilitating the display and transmission of captured images.

Implementation Method 1

information on acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor for each of the cameras

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcceleration detection: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS11783505B2Camera position detection apparatus, camera unit, camera position detection method, and medium

Publication Date: 2023.10.10 JVC KENWOOD CORP

AI summary

A camera position detection apparatus detects imaging positions of a plurality of cameras that are mounted on a vehicle and that include acceleration sensors, where the imaging positions indicate positions at which the cameras capture images with respect to the vehicle. The camera position detection apparatus includes a reference camera information acquisition unit that acquires information on the imaging position of a reference camera that is a part of the cameras, an acceleration acquisition unit that acquires information on acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor for each of the cameras, and an imaging position detection unit that detects an imaging position of a setting target camera that is the camera different from the reference camera among the cameras.