Vehicle Object Detection With Adaptive Side-Rear Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing object detecting arrangements in vehicles face challenges in effectively detecting objects, particularly at greater distances or in low illumination conditions, which limits their capability to assist in lane keeping and positioning.
Innovation Solution
An object detecting arrangement that includes an imaging unit capturing images from the side and rear of a vehicle, a processing unit to determine object detection capability based on distance and illumination conditions, and an illumination unit that activates when the detection capability falls below a threshold, providing adaptive illumination to enhance object detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the imaging unit captures images from greater distances, then the detection range is improved, but the object detecting capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit activates in advance before the imaging unit captures images when poor lighting conditions are detected, ensuring that the field is properly illuminated before detection occurs. This preliminary illumination action enables the imaging unit to capture clear images of objects at greater distances by improving the lighting conditions in the detection field.
2Measurement precision
If additional illumination units are added to improve object detection in low light, then the object detecting capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit serves multiple functions: it illuminates the detection field for the imaging unit, provides visibility for pedestrians and other road users, and can serve as a safety feature for the vehicle. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address multiple needs without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing unit automatically determines when illumination is needed by analyzing images captured by the imaging unit and assessing object detecting capability. The system self-regulates the illumination unit's operation based on real-time detection conditions, eliminating the need for manual control or complex external control systems.
3Measurement precision
If the illumination unit is activated continuously to improve detection, then the object detecting capability is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when the processing unit determines that object detecting capability is insufficient. The system continuously monitors detection conditions and switches the illumination unit on and off as needed, providing illumination only during periods when it is actually required for safe operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system transitions from a static, always-on state to a dynamic, condition-based operational state. The processing unit dynamically adjusts the illumination unit's operation based on real-time assessment of detection conditions, object distance, and lighting environment, optimizing energy usage while maintaining detection capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object detecting arrangement (1) is provided configured to detect objects (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) in a field (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) surrounding a vehicle (7) hosting the arrangement (1). The arrangement (1) comprises an imaging unit (9.1, 9.2, 9.3) configured to capture images of the field (5.1, 5.2, 5.3). The imaging unit (9.1, 9.2, 9.3) is arranged at the vehicle (7) such that the field (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) is in a direction of at least one of a side of the vehicle (7), and a rear of the vehicle (7). The arrangement (1) comprises a processing unit (11) configured to detect objects (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) in the field (5.1, 5.2, 5.3). The processing unit (11) is configured to determine an object detecting capability. The arrangement (1) comprises an illumination unit (13.1, 13.2, 13.3) configured to illuminate the field (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) when the object detecting capability is lower than a first predetermined threshold value. The present disclosure also relates to a lane keeping arrangement (21), a positioning arrangement (23) and a method (100) of detecting objects (3.1, 3.2, 3.3).