Video-Based Navigation Arrow Overlay for Complex Intersections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle navigation systems are inadequate in providing clear turning directions, especially in low visibility conditions, complex intersections, and when obstructed views occur, as they rely on graphics and audio that may not accurately convey turn directions.
Innovation Solution
A video-based navigation system that uses a camera to display a guidance arrow on the display screen or windshield, calibrated using GPS, range measurements, and map information, ensuring the arrow's accurate positioning and orientation relative to the vehicle's position and route, with optional online calibration techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional map graphics and audio instructions are used for navigation, then the system is simple to implement, but the driver cannot accurately see turn direction in poor visibility conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera-based visual display system with the traditional navigation system, merging real-time video feed with GPS route data and map information. This integration allows the arrow to be overlaid on the actual camera view, providing accurate turn direction indication while maintaining system functionality through the existing navigation infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera acts as an intermediary between the driver and the road environment, capturing real-time visual information that is then processed to display the turn direction arrow. This intermediary system overcomes the limitation of poor visibility by providing a processed visual representation that highlights critical navigation information.
2Ease of operation
If multiple travel lanes and turning directions are provided at intersections, then driver options are increased, but the driver becomes confused about which direction to turn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by displaying the turn direction arrow only in the specific region of the camera view where the turn should occur, rather than providing comprehensive information about all possible lanes and directions. This localized indication simplifies the driver's decision-making by highlighting only the relevant action needed at that moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation information is segmented into discrete, actionable elements - specifically the turn direction arrow - rather than presenting all possible routes and lane options simultaneously. This segmentation breaks down the complex intersection information into a simple, actionable visual cue that reduces driver confusion.
3Measurement precision
If street markers are used to identify streets at intersections, then the system is simple, but the markers may not adequately identify a street
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/street marker-based identification system with a camera-based visual recognition system. Instead of relying on physical street markers that may be inadequate or missing, the system uses image processing to identify and display relevant navigation information, achieving more accurate street and turn identification.
4Illumination intensity
If the driver follows behind an obstacle such as a large truck, then the vehicle can maintain safe distance, but the driver's view at the intersection is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The camera serves as an intermediary that captures visual information from around or above obstacles that block the driver's direct view. By positioning the camera to obtain a view that isn't blocked by following vehicles or obstacles, the system provides turn direction information even when the driver's direct line of sight is obstructed.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method that provide a video-based vehicle navigation system. The system positions an arrow on the video display that shows the specific turning direction for the vehicle for route guidance purposes. To determine the proper position of the guidance arrow, the process determines a distance from the current vehicle position to the location where the vehicle needs to turn using any suitable information, such as GPS position, range measurements and map information. The process then positions the guidance arrow on the ground at the turning location in world coordinates, and projects the guidance arrow onto the image. The camera can be calibrated to the ground using various techniques, such as an online automatic calibration process that uses detected objects in the scene around the vehicle.