Wireless Vehicle Camera System for Multi-View Surround Awareness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle onboard camera systems are limited to single, non-configurable, wired cameras that provide only a rear view, failing to offer a comprehensive view of the vehicle's surroundings, which can be difficult for drivers to see from their seated position.
Innovation Solution
An integrated wireless image capture system that connects multiple cameras via a vehicle-based wireless network, allowing configuration of operational parameters and real-time image data transmission to an automotive head unit for display, enabling multiple camera views and enhanced situational awareness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple wireless cameras are used to provide comprehensive vehicle surroundings view, then the view coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automotive head unit serves multiple functions: it acts as a wireless communication receiver for camera data, a configuration interface for camera parameters, an image processor, and a display controller. This multi-functionality allows the system to support multiple cameras without proportionally increasing complexity, as the head unit consolidates what would otherwise require separate dedicated components for each camera.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary layer between the cameras and the head unit, using standardized wireless protocols to bridge the connection. This intermediary approach eliminates the need for complex wired connections and allows flexible camera placement while maintaining manageable system complexity through established communication standards.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are configured with adjustable operational parameters, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic connection and configuration capabilities where the head unit automatically detects wireless cameras, establishes connections, and retrieves operational parameters without requiring manual intervention. The cameras themselves provide their status and capability information automatically, reducing the configuration burden on the user while maintaining high adaptability through programmable parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The head unit provides real-time feedback to users about camera connection status, operational parameters, and captured images. This feedback mechanism allows users to verify configuration settings and make adjustments as needed, simplifying the operation of complex multi-camera systems by making the configuration process transparent and controllable.
3Loss of information
If real-time image data transmission from multiple cameras is implemented, then the driver awareness is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous transmission from all cameras, the system uses periodic or event-triggered image capture and transmission. Cameras can be activated on demand based on driving conditions, and images are transmitted at intervals or when specific events occur (such as detecting obstacles or changes in the environment), reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining adequate situational awareness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transmits only the necessary portion of image data required for driver awareness rather than processing and transmitting all data from all cameras continuously. The head unit can selectively process and display relevant images based on current driving context, reducing the energy burden of data transmission and processing while maintaining effective situational awareness.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using an integrated wireless image capture system on a vehicle and a tow object is provided. The method connects to an image capture device over a vehicle-based wireless network, wherein the image capture device is positioned on the tow object; configures operational parameters for the image capture device; and receives, at a computer system onboard the vehicle, image data from the image capture device, wherein the image data is captured by the image capture device in accordance with the configured operational parameters.