Vehicle Windshield Detection Device With Sequential Zone Focusing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection systems for clusters of material on vehicle observation windows, such as windshields, are inefficient due to the reduced depth of field and inclination of the glazing, limiting the effective detection area and degrading the quality of images for driver assistance systems.
Innovation Solution
A detection device with a controllable focusing system, using a liquid lens or displacement means, captures multiple focused images of distinct zones of the observation glazing and the external environment, allowing for comprehensive cluster detection and environmental imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the optical system focuses on close objects (observation glazing), then the depth of field is reduced, but the detection area of the glazing is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The observation glazing is divided into multiple zones (first zone, second zone, third zone) at different distances from the optical system. The control module sequentially focuses on each zone to capture multiple images, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the entire glazing surface while maintaining detection precision for each zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system employs dynamic focusing capability to adjust the focal plane sequentially to match different zones of the observation glazing. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain sharp focus on each zone during sequential imaging, overcoming the limited depth of field when focusing on close objects.
2Ease of operation
If the observation glazing is inclined relative to the optical system, then the device can be installed in the passenger compartment, but the depth of field is reduced when focusing on close objects
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined observation glazing is segmented into multiple zones at different distances from the optical system. By sequentially focusing on each zone, the system compensates for the reduced depth of field caused by the inclination, maintaining detection precision across the entire glazing surface while preserving the installation feasibility in the passenger compartment.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple images of distinct zones are captured with different focus settings, then the detection coverage of the observation glazing is extended, but the complexity of the detection device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a detection device for clusters on the observation glazing and as an environmental imaging device. The same optical system and image sensor are used for both purposes by sequentially focusing on different zones, reducing the need for separate detection and imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module automatically manages the sequential focusing and image capture process for multiple zones without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates the focus adjustments and image acquisition sequence, simplifying operation while achieving extended detection coverage.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the detection device captures images of both the observation glazing and external environment, then the versatility of the device is improved, but the detection sensitivity for clusters on the glazing may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control module implements periodic action by sequentially alternating between capturing images of the observation glazing (with focus on different zones) and capturing images of the external environment. This periodic switching allows the system to maintain high detection sensitivity for clusters while also providing environmental imaging capability.
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 the detection sensitivity and coverage of clusters on the observation glazing while maintaining efficient environmental imaging, improving driver assistance functions by effectively utilizing a liquid lens for rapid focus adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system, optically associated with the image sensor and comprising controllable focusing means
Implementation Method 2
the control module is designed to control the focusing means so as to form on the image sensor a clear image of a first zone of the observation glazing
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a detection device (100) capable of being installed in a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle defined by an observation window, comprising: an image sensor (130); an optical system (110), optically associated with the image sensor (130) and including controllable focussing means; a control module (120) designed to control the focussing means so as to consecutively focus on two at least partially separate areas of the observation window, and to obtain first and second corresponding images of the observation window; and an analysis module (126) designed to detect a mass of material located on the observation window, by analysing said first and second images of the observation window. The invention also describes a motor vehicle provided with a detection device and an associated detection method.