Vehicle Image Controller Synchronization to Prevent Signal Collisions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of multiple image controllers in vehicles often leads to signal collisions, resulting in erroneous image data transmission and degradation of image quality due to mismatched tuning parameters between image signal processors (ISPs) and sensors in cameras.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system is implemented with multiple image controllers, where one controller determines and transmits tuning parameters to the camera, and another controller processes the image data, using communication channels like I2C or LVDS, to ensure synchronized image processing and prevent signal collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image controllers are integrated into one system, then the overall imaging function and control capability are improved, but signal collisions occur causing erroneous image data transmission and degradation of image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the first image controller determine and transmit tuning parameters to the camera before image data acquisition. This pre-configuration ensures that the camera is properly tuned to receive and transmit image data correctly, preventing signal collisions and erroneous data transmission before they occur during the imaging process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the first image controller acts as a mediator that manages the tuning parameters and coordinates between the camera and the second image controller. This intermediary role prevents direct conflicts between multiple controllers by centralizing the parameter management and sequencing operations
2Device complexity
If multiple ISPs are integrated into one controller, then device complexity is reduced, but matching between ISP and sensor becomes difficult due to different tuning parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The first image controller performs preliminary determination of tuning parameters specific to each sensor-ISP combination before operation. This pre-establishment of matching parameters ensures that when multiple ISPs are integrated into one controller, each ISP is properly configured for its corresponding sensor, maintaining manufacturing precision despite the integrated architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by maintaining distinct tuning parameters for each ISP-sensor pair within the integrated controller. Each ISP operates with its own optimized parameters rather than a unified set, allowing the integrated system to preserve the specific matching characteristics needed for high-quality image processing while still achieving device complexity reduction
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle may include a camera configured to generate first image data based on tuning parameters; a first image controller including an image signal processor (ISP) configured to perform the image processing of the first image data; and a second image controller including the ISP configured to perform the image processing of the first image data. When the second image controller determines the tuning parameter based on an operation mode, the second image controller may be configured to transmit the determined tuning parameter to the camera, and the ISP of the first image controller may be configured to receive the first image data.