Vehicle User Location System via Image Edge Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user location systems struggle to accurately determine the location of a user within a vehicle environment using images captured by electronic devices, such as smartphones, due to limitations in edge detection and image analysis techniques, which affects their ability to control environmental aspects like climate and stereo systems effectively.
Innovation Solution
A user location system that employs edge detection, image uniformity analysis, and image processing techniques like noise removal, histogram equalization, and quadrant analysis using front- and rear-facing cameras to determine the user's location within a vehicle, enabling precise control of environmental settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If basic image capture is used without advanced processing, then device complexity is reduced, but user location determination accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing task into distinct functional modules: noise removal module, edge detection module, uniformity analysis module, and location determination module. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve high accuracy through coordinated processing of multiple image parameters rather than relying on a single complex algorithm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary image processing actions before location determination: noise removal is performed first to clean the image, followed by edge detection to identify boundaries, then uniformity analysis to assess image quality. These preliminary steps prepare the image data for more accurate location determination without requiring the final system to be overly complex.
2Measurement precision
If multiple image processing techniques are applied, then user location accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by capturing images at regular intervals and processing them through the established pipeline. The system captures images continuously or at scheduled times, applies the processing techniques (noise removal, edge detection, uniformity analysis) in a repeating cycle, and updates location determination periodically. This allows accurate processing without requiring all techniques to run simultaneously, reducing overall processing time.
3Manufacturing precision
If comprehensive image processing is performed, then environmental control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively processing only the necessary image parameters for location determination. Rather than performing exhaustive analysis on all image data, the system focuses on key features: noise removal to clean essential data, edge detection to identify relevant boundaries, and uniformity analysis to assess overall image quality. This selective processing achieves sufficient control precision while consuming less energy than comprehensive analysis would require.
Data Source
AI summary
A user location system (ULS) can use images, such as video or still images, captured from at least one camera of an electronic device, such as a mobile device, to determine, via at least edge detection and image uniformity analysis, location of a user in an environment, such as in a cabin of a vehicle. The determined location of the user can then be used as an input to control at least one aspect of the environment. In the case of a vehicle, such input may be used to facilitate control of speed, safety features, climate, and/or audio playback, for example.