Virtual Viewpoint Image Generation for Vehicle Turn Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image generation apparatuses struggle to allow drivers to easily recognize vehicles approaching from the rear when turning right or left, as the composite images generated from a rear viewpoint do not effectively display the lateral region, leading to potential collisions.
Innovation Solution
An image generation apparatus that includes an image processor and a detector, which generates a composite image viewed from a virtual viewpoint located in front of the host vehicle in the traveling direction, showing the lateral surface of the host vehicle on the side corresponding to the driver's intention, detected through operations like direction indicator switches or steering wheel turns, allowing for better obstacle recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a composite image is generated showing the lateral region from a rear viewpoint, then the image covers the lateral area, but the positional relationship between the vehicle and obstacles is difficult to recognize
Solution Approach 1:
By repositioning the virtual viewpoint to a location in front of the host vehicle, the patent creates a composite image that maintains comprehensive lateral region coverage while simultaneously providing accurate spatial relationships between the vehicle and obstacles. This dimensional change allows drivers to intuitively understand distances and positions without the distortion caused by rear viewpoint projection.
Data Source
AI summary
An image generation apparatus includes an image processor and a detector. The image processor generates a composite image viewed from at least one virtual viewpoint, and outputs the generated composite image to a display. The detector detects an indication of a driver intention to drive the host vehicle to a right or to a left relative to a travelling direction of the host vehicle. The image processor generates the composite image viewed from a virtual viewpoint located in front of the host vehicle in the travelling direction, the composite image showing a lateral surface of the host vehicle on a side corresponding to the detected indication of the driver intention. Thus, it is possible to make it easier to check a situation at a time of a right turn, a left turn, or a travelling direction change.