Windshield Corrective Optics for Rake-Induced Camera Aberrations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle windshield camera systems face performance degradation due to the rake angle of windshields, which causes aberrations in camera view images, particularly in the tangential direction, affecting perception algorithms.
Innovation Solution
A windshield corrective optical system that includes a camera with a corrective element positioned between the windshield and the sensor, oriented at a corrective angle opposite to the rake angle, to correct aberrations in light rays before they reach the sensor, using a combination of lens groups and an aperture stop to improve image resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a windshield with a rake angle is used to mitigate air resistance and reduce impact damage, then aerodynamic performance and safety are improved, but optical aberrations in camera images are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
A corrective optical element is introduced as an intermediary component between the windshield and camera sensor. This element specifically addresses the optical aberrations caused by the windshield's rake angle without requiring any modification to the windshield structure itself, thereby maintaining both safety and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The corrective optical element is designed with specific optical parameters (refractive index, curvature, thickness) that are optimized to counteract the aberrations introduced by the windshield's rake angle. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves optimal image correction while maintaining the windshield's aerodynamic and safety properties.
2Measurement precision
If a corrective optical element is added to correct aberrations, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical correction function is segmented from the main camera system, allowing the corrective element to be designed, manufactured, and calibrated independently. This modular approach simplifies the overall system integration and maintenance while achieving the desired image quality improvement.
Solution Approach 2:
The corrective optical element is designed to address multiple types of aberrations (distortion, chromatic aberration, field curvature) simultaneously, rather than requiring separate correction mechanisms for each type. This multi-functional design reduces the overall complexity of the optical correction system.
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
The system effectively corrects aberrations induced by the windshield rake angle, enhancing the performance of perception algorithms and maintaining consistent image quality across the field-of-view, as demonstrated by improved modulation transfer function graphs.
Implementation Method 1
A corrective element is positioned to pass the light rays through the corrective element to the sensor. The corrective element is configured to correct aberrations of the light rays induced by passing through the windshield prior to the light rays reaching the sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield corrective optical system includes a motor vehicle having a windshield. A camera is positioned within an occupant compartment of the motor vehicle directed toward the windshield and receiving light rays passing through the windshield. A sensor is configured to receive the light rays. A corrective element is configured to allow passage of the light rays through the corrective element to the sensor. The corrective element corrects aberrations of the light rays induced by passing through the windshield prior to the light rays reaching the sensor.