Vehicle Splash Detection Using Radar and Camera Depth Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing techniques for detecting moisture conditions on or around a vehicle are limited in accuracy and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A detection system utilizing a camera and RADAR module to capture images and scan for splash events, determining depth and intensity, and controlling vehicle systems like wipers and lighting based on these conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional image processing techniques are used to detect moisture conditions, then the system complexity is low, but the detection precision and accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines camera-based image processing with RADAR technology into an integrated detection system. The camera captures visual information about moisture conditions while the RADAR provides depth and distance data, merging multiple sensing modalities to achieve superior detection accuracy compared to conventional single-method approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting splash events, measuring depth of moisture, determining distance to moisture sources, and classifying intensity levels. This multi-functional approach allows a single system to replace multiple separate detection devices, improving accuracy without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If RADAR and camera integration is implemented to improve detection accuracy, then the measurement precision increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry serves as an intermediary that processes and integrates data from both the camera and RADAR module. It combines visual information with depth and distance measurements, coordinating the two sensing systems to work together seamlessly, thereby managing system complexity through centralized intelligence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds the depth dimension by incorporating RADAR measurements with the two-dimensional image data from the camera. This transition from 2D visual detection to 3D spatial understanding enhances detection accuracy by providing volumetric information about splash events and moisture distribution.
3Reliability
If the system responds to all detected moisture conditions, then the reliability of visibility maintenance improves, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different response strategies based on the local characteristics of detected moisture conditions. By classifying splash events into different intensity levels and identifying specific moisture locations, the control system activates window clearing operations only where and when necessary, rather than uniformly across the entire window surface, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by selectively activating window clearing functions based on the severity and location of detected moisture. For minor splashes in non-critical areas, the system may take no action or minimal action, reserving full clearing operations for significant moisture events that actually threaten visibility, thus optimizing energy usage.
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
Enhances visibility by accurately detecting and responding to moisture conditions, optimizing window clearing, and improving vehicle maneuverability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a RADAR module that scans the region to detect a depth of a splash event in the region
Data Source
AI summary
A detection system for a target vehicle includes a camera capturing images of a region external to the target vehicle, a RADAR module that scans the region to detect a depth of a splash event in the region, an actuator configured to operate in response to a response signal and control circuitry configured to determine a distance between the target vehicle and a front of the splash event based on the images, compare the front of the splash event to the depth to determine an intensity of the splash event, and communicate the response signal based on the intensity of the splash event.