Vehicle pre-impact sensing system having signal modulation

A vehicle pre-impact sensing system is provided that includes an array of energy signal transmitters mounted on a vehicle for transmitting signals within multiple transmit zones spaced from the vehicle and an array of receiver elements mounted on the vehicle for receiving signals reflected from an object located in one or more multiple receive zones indicative of the object being in certain one or more zones. A processor processes the received reflected signals and determines range, location, speed and direction of the object, determines whether the object is expected to impact the vehicle as a function of the determined range, location, speed and direction of the object, and generates an output signal indicative of a pre-impact event. The system may detect one or more features of a target object, such as a front end of a vehicle. Additionally, the system may modulate the transmit beams. Further, the system may perform a terrain normalization to remove stationary items.

Synchronous imaging using segmented illumination

In an actively illuminated imaging system, illumination of a segmented scene is synchronized with an image sensing period. A scene is segmented into a plurality of scene portions utilizing a segmented lens. In an aspect, a first scene portion is illuminated when an imager is actively collecting photogenerated charge from the first scene portion, and a second scene portion is illuminated when an imager is actively collecting photogenerated charge from the second scene portion. The sensitivity of an image sensor is maximized, while simultaneously minimizing the amount of light that must be supplied to illuminate a scene. An irradiance pattern is varied allowing a more uniform distribution of light. Bands of varying wavelength, polarization, and light intensity may be variously applied to illuminate individual scene segments, as needed to enhance an identification of an object in the scene. The present invention is particularly useful with high frame rate imaging systems.

Object detection system and method using a camera and a multiple zone temperature sensor

A system and method to provide a notification to an operator of a vehicle that an object is proximate to the vehicle. Data from a visible light camera and a multiple zone temperature sensor are combined or fused to determine which regions of a display should be highlighted in order to help the vehicle operator better notice or discern an object shown on a display. The region or area of the display highlighted is determined by displaying a highlighted area or icon on the display corresponding to an area where objects detected on image data maps of hue and/or saturation and/or intensity data from the camera intersect with objects detected on a temperature data map from the temperature sensor. Misalignment between the camera and the temperature sensor may be tolerated by expanding the object detected on the various maps in order to increase the probability of an intersection occurring.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THERMAL SIDE DETECTION IN A VEHICLE

A detecting device for a vehicle, the detecting device comprising: a first infrared detector configured to repeatedly measure a temperature of a first target area by receiving infrared radiation of the first target area, the first infrared detector being configured to provide a plurality of first signals each corresponding to a measured temperature of the first target area over a sampling period; a second infrared detector configured to repeatedly measure a temperature of a second target area by receiving infrared radiation of the second target area, the second infrared detector being configured to provide a plurality of second signals each corresponding to a measured temperature of the second target area over the sampling period, the second target area being different from the first target area; and a controller configured to receive and store the plurality of first signals and the plurality of second signals in a storage medium, wherein the controller repeatedly compares a plurality of ...

Refractive block and imaging systems for use in automobiles

A refractive block includes a light-entrance surface configured to be mounted in contact with a refractive boundary of a vehicle, and a light-exit surface wherein the refractive block is configured to refract an optical path of light corresponding to an imaged area and to direct the light to an image-sensing component.

System and method for enhancing an image

A system and method for enhancing the contrast within an image. An enhanced image can be generated in a real-time or substantially real-time manner from an initial image. The pixel values of the initial image can be used to populate a histogram or otherwise serve as the basis for subsequent processing. A valley can be identified within the range of pixel values for use as a stretch metric used by a stretch heuristic to expand the contrast of the pixel values in the initial image by expanding the range of pixel values associated with the pixels in the histogram. In some embodiments, the initial image is first divided into image regions that are each associated with individualized processing. A bilinear interpolation step can then be performed to smooth the integrated image after the individualized processing is used to stretch the pixels within the individual image regions.

Vehicle pathway vision system having in-path delineation reticle

A vehicle vision system displays a vehicle pathway image that includes a reticle for visually identifying the in-path portion of the image. A reticle array is disposed between a video camera chip and a lens, and includes a conical or frustro-conical region of substantially un-attenuated light transmissivity surrounded by a region of perceptibly attenuated light transmissivity, such that in-path portions of the displayed image are substantially unchanged and out-of-path portions of the displayed image are perceptibly attenuated. The reticle array may also include a number of reduced transmissivity lines traversing its conical or frustro-conical region to produce a series of receding stadia lines in the in-path portion of the displayed image, enabling the driver to reliably discern the range of displayed objects.

Vehicle Pre-Impact Sensing System Having Terrain Normalization

A vehicle pre-impact sensing system is provided that includes an array of energy signal transmitters mounted on a vehicle for transmitting signals within multiple transmit zones spaced from the vehicle and an array of receiver elements mounted on the vehicle for receiving signals reflected from an object located in one or more multiple receive zones indicative of the object being in certain one or more zones. A processor processes the received reflected signals and determines range, location, speed and direction of the object, determines whether the object is expected to impact the vehicle as a function of the determined range, location, speed and direction of the object, and generates an output signal indicative of a pre-impact event. The system may detect one or more features of a target object, such as a front end of a vehicle. Additionally, the system may modulate the transmit beams. Further, the system may perform a terrain normalization to remove stationary items.

Apparatus and method for thermal side detection in a vehicle

A detecting device for a vehicle and method thereof is provided. The device includes a first infrared detector, a second infared detector, and a controller. The first infrared detector is configured to repeatedly measure a temperature of a first target area by receiving infrared radiation of the first target area over a sampling period. The second infrared detector is configured to repeatedly measure a temperature of a second target area by receiving infrared radiation of the second target area over the sampling period. The controller is configured to receive and store the plurality of first and second signals, wherein the controller repeatedly compares a plurality of correlation values to a predetermined tolerance range above a minimum threshold value, wherein the correlation values are determined by repeatedly comparing a plurality of time delayed signals of the second plurality of signals to a real time signal of the plurality of first signals.

Thermal radiation detector

An object detection system is provided for detecting a thermal emitting object in a blind zone proximate to a host vehicle. The system includes a thermal radiation detector located on a host vehicle and configured to sense temperature of multiple coverage zones proximate to the host vehicle. A processor processes temperature sensed by an infrared detector. The processor determines a change in thermal temperature sensed by the infrared detector and determines the presence of an object in the coverage zone based on the change in the sensed temperature. An output provides a signal indicative of an object sensed in the coverage zone based on the determined change in temperature. The thermal radiation detector may include a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first coverage zone by receiving infrared radiation from the first coverage zone, and a second infrared detector configured to measure temperature of second and third coverage zones by receiving infrared radiation ...

Method of operation for a vision-based occupant sensing system

Image processing parameters of an imaging chip in a vision-based occupant sensing system are adjusted for each frame based on ambient illumination responsive information obtained in the idle period preceding that frame. The same sensing data is also used to determine if active illumination is needed to supplement existent ambient illumination during the ensuing image acquisition interval. The inter-frame ambient illumination is detected with an external light sensor or with selected pixels of the imaging chip, and the information is used to calculate and set the gain and integration time of the imaging chip. In applications where the resolution of the imaging chip significantly exceeds the resolution required for occupant sensing, intensity data from one or more otherwise inactive pixels is averaged with the intensity data from the normally active pixels to adapt the sensitivity of the imaging chip to changing ambient illumination.

Lens system for a motor vehicle vision system

A fisheye-corrected lens system includes a plurality of axially aligned lenses. At least one of the lenses includes an aspheric surface and an image distortion of the lens system is less than about five percent at a maximum field angle. A furthest point of the aspheric surface is positioned within a distance less than about fifty percent of a diagonal dimension of an associated imager.

Optical system for controlling light propagation along a light path

An optical system and method for controlling light propagation along a light path. An optical element such as a lens is formed of a first light transmitting material and has a surface finish effective to scatter light impinging on the surface. Index matching material contacts to a portion of the surface so as to reduce or nullify the scattering effects of the surface finish within the portion. This allows the first optical element to have surfaces that have been generally prepared for scattering light and then later selectively negate the scattering effects of the surface finish by contacting portions of the surface with index matching material. As such, light in the optical element directed toward a surface or boundary within selected portion propagates into or out of the optical element. Light outside of the selected portion is scattered. Such an arrangement helps to reduce image degradation due to light outside of the light path being reflected about within the optical system.

Thermal radiation detector

An object detection system is provided for detecting a thermal emitting object in a blind zone proximate to a host vehicle. The system includes a thermal radiation detector located on a host vehicle and configured to sense temperature of multiple coverage zones proximate to the host vehicle. A processor processes temperature sensed by an infrared detector. The processor determines a change in thermal temperature sensed by the infrared detector and determines the presence of an object in the coverage zone based on the change in the sensed temperature. An output provides a signal indicative of an object sensed in the coverage zone based on the determined change in temperature. The thermal radiation detector may include a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first coverage zone by receiving infrared radiation from the first coverage zone, and a second infrared detector configured to measure temperature of second and third coverage zones by receiving infrared radiation ...

Stereoscopic camera object detection system and method of aligning the same

A system, controller, and method for aligning a stereo camera of a vehicle mounted object detection system that includes a first camera and a second camera mounted spaced apart on a vehicle. An image from each camera at two different times is used to determine an observed displacement of an object relative to the vehicle. A predicted displacement of the object relative to the vehicle is also determined using either a difference of vehicle position measured based on other vehicle measurements or GPS, or a difference of size of the object in images taken at the two different times. Alignment is provided by determining a triangulation correction based on a difference of the observed displacement and the predicted displacement to correct for misalignment of the cameras.

Vehicle Pre-Impact Sensing System Having Signal Modulation

A vehicle pre-impact sensing system is provided that includes an array of energy signal transmitters mounted on a vehicle for transmitting signals within multiple transmit zones spaced from the vehicle and an array of receiver elements mounted on the vehicle for receiving signals reflected from an object located in one or more multiple receive zones indicative of the object being in certain one or more zones. A processor processes the received reflected signals and determines range, location, speed and direction of the object, determines whether the object is expected to impact the vehicle as a function of the determined range, location, speed and direction of the object, and generates an output signal indicative of a pre-impact event. The system may detect one or more features of a target object, such as a front end of a vehicle. Additionally, the system may modulate the transmit beams. Further, the system may perform a terrain normalization to remove stationary items.

Apparatus for generating a combined image

An apparatus for generating a combined image includes a first reflector, a second reflector, a third reflector, and a camera. In some embodiments, one or more of the reflectors may be movable between a first position and a second position. Additionally, the apparatus may change position to alter the target view of the apparatus.

Vehicle zone detection system and method

An object detection system is provided for detecting a thermal emitting object in a blind zone proximate to a host vehicle. The system includes a thermal radiation detector located on a host vehicle and configured to sense temperature of multiple coverage zones proximate to the host vehicle. A processor processes temperature sensed by an infrared detector. The processor determines a change in thermal temperature sensed by the infrared detector and determines the presence of an object in the coverage zone based on the change in the sensed temperature. An output provides a signal indicative of an object sensed in the coverage zone based on the determined change in temperature. The thermal radiation detector may include a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first coverage zone by receiving infrared radiation from the first coverage zone, and a second infrared detector configured to measure temperature of second and third coverage zones by receiving infrared radiation ...

Vehicle pathway vision system having in-path delineation reticle

A vehicle vision system displays a vehicle pathway image that includes a reticle for visually identifying the in-path portion of the image. A reticle array is disposed between a video camera chip and a lens, and includes a conical or frustro-conical region of substantially un-attenuated light transmissivity surrounded by a region of perceptibly attenuated light transmissivity, such that in-path portions of the displayed image are substantially unchanged and out-of-path portions of the displayed image are perceptibly attenuated. The reticle array may also include a number of reduced transmissivity lines traversing its conical or frustro-conical region to produce a series of receding stadia lines in the in-path portion of the displayed image, enabling the driver to reliably discern the range of displayed objects.

Apparatus for shaping the radiation pattern of a planar antenna near-field radar system

A near-field radar apparatus includes a fixed beam planar radar antenna and a radiation pattern adaptation device disposed substantially at the near-field boundary of the antenna. The adaptation device comprises a plurality of dielectric elements that individually constitute or approximate different surface portions of an idealized quasi-spherical or quasi-cylindrical radome reflector. The dielectric elements can be maintained physically separate or combined about the diffraction point of the antenna to form a single dielectric element. The dielectric elements may be mounted on a radome that is otherwise transparent to the radiation pattern, or otherwise suspended at or near the near-field boundary of the antenna.

STEREOSCOPIC CAMERA OBJECT DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ALIGNING THE SAME

A system, controller, and method for aligning a stereo camera of a vehicle mounted object detection system that includes a first camera and a second camera mounted spaced apart on a vehicle. An image from each camera at two different times is used to determine an observed displacement of an object relative to the vehicle. A predicted displacement of the object relative to the vehicle is also determined using either a difference of vehicle position measured based on other vehicle measurements or GPS, or a difference of size of the object in images taken at the two different times. Alignment is provided by determining a triangulation correction based on a difference of the observed displacement and the predicted displacement to correct for misalignment of the cameras. 1. A method for aligning a stereo camera of a vehicle mounted object detection system , said system comprising a first camera and a second camera mounted spaced apart on a vehicle , said method comprising:determining a first position of an object in a first image from the first camera captured at a first time;determining a second position of the object in a second image from the second camera captured at the first time;determining an initial location of the object relative to the vehicle at the first time based on triangulation of the first image and the second image;determining a third position of the object in a third image from the first camera captured at a second time distinct from the first time;determining a fourth position of the object in a fourth image from the second camera captured at the second time;determining a subsequent location of the object relative to the vehicle at the second time based on triangulation of the third image and the fourth image;determining an observed displacement of the object relative to the vehicle based on a difference of the initial location and the subsequent location; a) a difference of vehicle position at the first time and the second time, and', 'b) a ...

Vehicle zone detection system and method

An object detection system is provided for detecting a thermal emitting object in a blind zone proximate to a host vehicle. The system includes a thermal radiation detector located on a host vehicle and configured to sense temperature of multiple coverage zones proximate to the host vehicle. A processor processes temperature sensed by an infrared detector. The processor determines a change in thermal temperature sensed by the infrared detector and determines the presence of an object in the coverage zone based on the change in the sensed temperature. An output provides a signal indicative of an object sensed in the coverage zone based on the determined change in temperature. The thermal radiation detector may include a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first coverage zone by receiving infrared radiation from the first coverage zone, and a second infrared detector configured to measure temperature of second and third coverage zones by receiving infrared radiation ...

Apparatus and method for thermal detection

A thermal detecting device for sensing temperature at multiple locations proximate to the detecting device is provided. The detecting device has a pair of infrared detectors each configured to measure temperature of two locations by receiving infrared energy of the two locations. A housing encloses the pair of infrared detectors. The housing is configured with an aperture to allow the infrared energy of the two locations to be received by the pair of infrared detectors. A reflective mirror or two mirrors focus the infrared energy of the two locations towards the pair of infrared detectors. The detecting device may be configured to determine if there is a temperature differential at a location as the housing moves with respect to the location.

Vehicle Pre-Impact Sensing System Having Object Feature Detection

A vehicle pre-impact sensing system is provided that includes an array of energy signal transmitters mounted on a vehicle for transmitting signals within multiple transmit zones spaced from the vehicle and an array of receiver elements mounted on the vehicle for receiving signals reflected from an object located in one or more multiple receive zones indicative of the object being in certain one or more zones. A processor processes the received reflected signals and determines range, location, speed and direction of the object, determines whether the object is expected to impact the vehicle as a function of the determined range, location, speed and direction of the object, and generates an output signal indicative of a pre-impact event. The system may detect one or more features of a target object, such as a front end of a vehicle. Additionally, the system may modulate the transmit beams. Further, the system may perform a terrain normalization to remove stationary items.

VEHICLE CAMERA SYSTEM

A vehicle camera system having features to attract the attention of a vehicle driver for discerning an object about the vehicle. The vehicle camera system has a camera configured to view an area about a vehicle and an infrared sensor configured to detect an object at a location within the area. The system includes a display that shows an image of the area and highlights a portion of the display corresponding to the location of the object when the object is detected by the infrared sensor. The infrared sensor is formed by a non-planar arrangement of infrared detectors that provides a wide angle field of view for detecting objects radiating infrared energy, without sacrificing infrared detection sensitivity. 1. A vehicle camera system comprising:a camera configured to view an area about a vehicle;an infrared sensor configured to detect an object at a location within the area; anda display configured to display an image of the area and highlight a portion of the display corresponding to the location when the object is detected.2. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the infrared sensor comprises a plurality of infrared detectors arranged to detect objects at a plurality of distinct locations within the area.3. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the infrared detectors are thermopile detectors.4. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the infrared sensor comprises a first row of a first number of infrared detectors configured to detect objects less than a first distance from the camera claim 2 , and a second row of a second number of infrared detectors less than the first number of infrared detectors claim 2 , said second row of infrared detectors configured to detect objects less a second distance from the camera and greater than the first distance from the camera.5. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the plurality of infrared detectors are arranged to form a plurality of infrared sensor modules comprising infrared detectors ...

Optical system for controlling light propagation along a light path

An optical system and method for controlling light propagation along a light path. An optical element such as a lens is formed of a first light transmitting material and has a surface finish effective to scatter light impinging on the surface. Index matching material contacts to a portion of the surface so as to reduce or nullify the scattering effects of the surface finish within the portion. This allows the first optical element to have surfaces that have been generally prepared for scattering light and then later selectively negate the scattering effects of the surface finish by contacting portions of the surface with index matching material. As such, light in the optical element directed toward a surface or boundary within selected portion propagates into or out of the optical element. Light outside of the selected portion is scattered. Such an arrangement helps to reduce image degradation due to light outside of the light path being reflected about within the optical system.

VEHICLE OPTICAL SENSOR SYSTEM

An optical sensor system adapted for use on a vehicle including a plurality of optoelectronic devices and a single high efficiency first lens. The optical sensor system is positioned on the vehicle to view a field of view about the vehicle. The optical sensor system may provide multiple independent video signals to multiple vehicle warning and control systems. Each video signal that is generated by each optoelectronic device may be optimized for a specific vehicle warning or control system by using additional second lenses to change the field of view, optical filters to change the spectral sensitivity, and/or independent exposure times to change the light sensitivity or dynamic range. The optoelectronic devices may be optoelectronic dies or cores, such as those used in wafer level cameras.

CAMERA SYSTEM WITH ROTATING MIRROR

An image system configured to record a scanned image of an area. The system includes a single two-dimensional (2D) imager and a rotatable mirror. The 2D imager is formed of a two-dimensional (2D) array of light detectors. The 2D imager is operable in a line-scan mode effective to individually sequence an activated line of light detectors at a time. The rotatable mirror is configured to rotate about an axis parallel to a plane defined by the rotatable mirror. The rotation is effective to vary an angle of the rotatable mirror to pan a projected image of the area across the 2D imager. The angle of the rotatable mirror and the activated line of the 2D imager are synchronized such that the scanned image recorded by the 2D imager is inverted with respect to the projected image.

Camera system with rotating mirror

An image system configured to record a scanned image of an area. The system includes a single two-dimensional (2D) imager and a rotatable mirror. The 2D imager is formed of a two-dimensional (2D) array of light detectors. The 2D imager is operable in a line-scan mode effective to individually sequence an activated line of light detectors at a time. The rotatable mirror is configured to rotate about an axis parallel to a plane defined by the rotatable mirror. The rotation is effective to vary an angle of the rotatable mirror to pan a projected image of the area across the 2D imager. The angle of the rotatable mirror and the activated line of the 2D imager are synchronized such that the scanned image recorded by the 2D imager is inverted with respect to the projected image.

Lens system for a motor vehicle vision system

A fisheye-corrected lens system includes a plurality of axially aligned lenses. At least one of the lenses includes an aspheric surface and an image distortion of the lens system is less than about five percent at a maximum field angle. A furthest point of the aspheric surface is positioned within a distance less than about fifty percent of a diagonal dimension of an associated imager.

MULTI-VIEW IMAGE SYSTEM WITH A SINGLE CAMERA AND A TRANSREFLECTIVE DEVICE

A multi-view image system that includes a single camera configured to capture an image, and a transreflective device. The transreflective device is operable to a transparent-state where light passes through the transreflective device to provide the camera a first image of an area from a first perspective. The transreflective device is also operable to a reflective-state where light is reflected by the transreflective device to provide the camera a second image of the area from a second perspective distinct from the first perspective. The system may also include a minor arrangement that cooperates with the transreflective device to provide the camera the first image when the transreflective device is in the transparent-state, and the second image when the transreflective device in in the reflective-state. 1. A multi-view image system comprising:a single camera equipped with a lens, said camera configured to capture an image on an imager of the camera; anda transreflective device operable to a transparent-state where light passes through the transreflective device then through the lens and onto the imager to provide the camera a first image of an area from a first perspective, and operable to a reflective-state where light is reflected by the transreflective device through the lens and onto the imager to provide the camera a second image of the area from a second perspective distinct from the first perspective.2. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the system further comprisesa mirror arrangement configured to cooperate with the transreflective device to provide the camera the first image when the transreflective device is in the transparent-state, and the second image when the transreflective device in in the reflective-state.3. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the system is configured such that the camera receives the first image during a first time period claim 1 , and receives a second image during a second time period distinct from the ...

Refractive block and imaging systems

A refractive block includes a light-entrance surface configured to be mounted to a refractive boundary of a vehicle, and a light-exit surface wherein the refractive block is configured to refract an optical path of light corresponding to an imaged area and to direct the light to an image-sensing component.

MULTIPLE IMAGER VEHICLE OPTICAL SENSOR SYSTEM

An optical sensor system that includes a master lens, an optical diffuser, and a plurality of optoelectronic devices. The master lens is positioned on the vehicle to observe a field of view about the vehicle. An optical diffuser is located proximate to a focal plane of the master lens. The diffuser is configured to display an image of the field of view from the master lens. A plurality of optoelectronic devices is configured to view the diffuser. A first optoelectronic device generates a first video signal indicative of images on a first portion of the diffuser. A second optoelectronic device generates a second video signal indicative of images on a second portion of the diffuser. Optionally, the first optoelectronic device is sensitive to a first light wavelength range, and the second optoelectronic device is sensitive to a second light wavelength range distinct from the first light wavelength range. 1. An optical sensor system adapted for use on a vehicle , said system comprising:a master lens positioned on the vehicle to observe a field of view about the vehicle, said master lens characterized as defining a focal plane;an optical diffuser located proximate to the focal plane of the master lens, said diffuser configured to display an image of the field of view from the master lens; anda plurality of optoelectronic devices configured to view the diffuser, wherein said plurality of optoelectronic devices includes a first optoelectronic device operable to generate a first video signal indicative of images on a first portion of the diffuser, and a second optoelectronic device operable to generate a second video signal indicative of images on a second portion of the diffuser.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first optoelectronic device is configured to be sensitive to a first light wavelength range and the second optoelectronic device is configured to be sensitive to a second light wavelength range distinct from the first light wavelength range.3. The system of ...

Apparatus and method for thermal detection

A thermal detecting device for sensing temperature at multiple locations proximate to the detecting device is provided. The detecting device has a pair of infrared detectors each configured to measure temperature of two locations by receiving infrared energy of the two locations. A housing encloses the pair of infrared detectors. The housing is configured with an aperture to allow the infrared energy of the two locations to be received by the pair of infrared detectors. A reflective mirror or two mirrors focus the infrared energy of the two locations towards the pair of infrared detectors. The detecting device may be configured to determine if there is a temperature differential at a location as the housing moves with respect to the location.

REFRACTIVE OPTICAL DEVICE AND IMAGING SYSTEM

An imaging system is configured to refractively shift light from a field of view about a vehicle to an image sensing device. The field of view is directed through a vehicle window characterized as having a substantial rake angle. The imaging system includes a first refractive element configured to be optically coupled with the vehicle window. Light impinging on a first surface of the first refractive element along the field of view axis passes through the first refractive element and exits a second surface along an intermediate axis. The imaging system includes a second refractive element in optical communication with an image sensing device. Light impinging on a third surface of the second refractive element along the intermediate axis passes through the second refractive element and exits a fourth surface along an image sensing device axis, whereby light from the field of view is directed into the image sensing device. 1. An optical device configured to refractively shift light propagating along a field of view axis of a field of view about a vehicle to an image sensing device axis of an image sensing device , wherein the field of view axis is directed through a vehicle window characterized as having a substantial rake angle , said optical device comprising:a first refractive element formed of material having a first index of refraction, wherein said first refractive element defines a first surface configured to be optically coupled with the vehicle window, wherein said first refractive element defines a second surface oriented at a first prism angle to the first surface, whereby light impinging on the first surface along the field of view axis passes through the first refractive element and exits the second surface along an intermediate axis; anda second refractive element formed of material having a second index of refraction, wherein said second refractive element defines a third surface separated from the second surface by a refractive boundary layer, wherein ...

OBJECT DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING A CAMERA AND A MULTIPLE ZONE TEMPERATURE SENSOR

A system and method to provide a notification to an operator of a vehicle that an object is proximate to the vehicle. Data from a visible light camera and a multiple zone temperature sensor are combined or fused to determine which regions of a display should be highlighted in order to help the vehicle operator better notice or discern an object shown on a display. The region or area of the display highlighted is determined by displaying a highlighted area or icon on the display corresponding to an area where objects detected on image data maps of hue and/or saturation and/or intensity data from the camera intersect with objects detected on a temperature data map from the temperature sensor. Misalignment between the camera and the temperature sensor may be tolerated by expanding the object detected on the various maps in order to increase the probability of an intersection occurring. 1. A system to provide a notification to an operator of a vehicle that an object is proximate to the vehicle , said system comprisinga visible light camera mounted on the vehicle effective to have a camera field of view, and configured to output image data indicative of visible light color and visible light intensity detected by pixels in the camera;a multiple zone temperature sensor mounted on the vehicle effective to have a sensor field of view similar to the camera field of view, and configured to output temperature data indicative of a zone temperature for each of the multiple zones; anda controller configured toa) receive visible light image data from the camera, said image data indicative of visible light color and visible light intensity detected by pixels in the camera;b) determine a hue map characterized as an array of hue data cells, wherein each hue data cell has a hue value based on a hue characteristic of the image data detected by of one or more of the pixels;c) designate a hue object on an area of the hue map where a cluster of hue data cells are present that have notable ...

CAMERA SYSTEM WITH LIGHT SHIELD

A camera system suitable for use on an automated vehicle, includes an imager used to detect an image of a field-of-view of the system, a light-shield operable to block a portion of the image from being received by the imager, and a controller in communication with the imager and the light-shield. The controller is configured to position the light-shield in a line-of-sight between a bright-spot and the imager. 1. A method of operating a camera system , the method comprising:detecting an image in a field-of-view of a camera installed on a vehicle with an imager; 'the bright-spot being a reflection from a light source off of a surface in the field-of-view;', 'detecting, with the imager, a bright-spot in the image;'} 'the scene being separate from the bright-spot;', 'determining, with a controller in communication with the imager, a scene within the image;'} 'the position of the bright-spot determined by light intensity signals received from the imager;', 'determining, with the controller, a position of the bright-spot on the imager;'}tracking, with the controller, the position of the bright-spot across the field-of-view based on the light intensity signals; andpositioning, with the controller, an absorber in a line-of-sight between the bright-spot and the imager such that the absorber reduces an intensity of light-rays from the bright-spot while allowing all of the light-rays from the scene to reach the imager.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the light source originates from a headlight of the vehicle.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the light source is reflected off the surface that is a roadway traveled by the vehicle.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the light source originates from streetlights positioned along a roadway traveled by the vehicle.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the light source is reflected off of the surface that is the roadway traveled by the vehicle.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the light source originates from a headlight of another ...

Driver assistance system

A driver assistance system includes an imaging device mounted to a vehicle that provides an image of a vicinity of the vehicle. A mobile device carried by a driver provides range rate information regarding a change in position of the mobile device. A processor determines that there is at least one object in the vicinity of the vehicle based on the image, determines the speed of vehicle movement based on the range rate information, determines relative movement between the vehicle and the at least one object based on at least the image, and determines a risk of collision between the vehicle and the at least one object based on the determined speed and the determined relative movement. A driver assist output provides a risk indication of the determined risk of collision to the driver.

CAMERA SYSTEM WITH ROTATING MIRROR

An image system configured to record a scanned image of an area. The system includes a single two-dimensional (2D) imager and a rotatable mirror. The 2D imager is formed of a two-dimensional (2D) array of light detectors. The 2D imager is operable in a line-scan mode effective to individually sequence an activated line of light detectors at a time. The rotatable mirror is configured to rotate about an axis parallel to a plane defined by the rotatable mirror. The rotation is effective to vary an angle of the rotatable mirror to pan a projected image of the area across the 2D imager. The angle of the rotatable mirror and the activated line of the 2D imager are synchronized such that the scanned image recorded by the 2D imager is inverted with respect to the projected image. 1. An image system configured to record a scanned image of an area , said system comprising:a single two-dimensional (2D) imager formed of a two-dimensional (2D) array of light detectors, wherein the 2D imager is operable in a line-scan mode effective to individually sequence an activated line of light detectors at a time; anda rotatable mirror configured to rotate about an axis parallel to a plane defined by the rotatable mirror, said rotation effective to vary an angle of the rotatable mirror to pan a projected image of the area across the 2D imager, wherein the angle of the rotatable mirror and the activated line of the 2D imager are synchronized such that the scanned image recorded by the 2D imager is inverted with respect to the projected image.2. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the camera includes one or more fixed mirror arranged to cooperate with the rotatable mirror to provide a first perspective view of the area and a second perspective view of the area distinct from the first perspective view. This disclosure generally relates to a camera that uses a rotating mirror and a single two-dimensional (2D) imager, and more particularly relates to systems with a single 2D imager ...

CAMERA ASSEMBLY METHOD WITH ADHESIVE SHRINK OFFSET BASED ON INDIVIDUAL LENS CHARACTERISTIC

A method of assembling a camera includes the steps of determining a focused-position of a lens relative to an imager where an image is focused on the imager, determining a first-factor indicative of focus quality at a central-portion of the imager, and determining a second-factor indicative of focus quality at an outer-portion of the imager. The outer-portion is characterized as displaced radially outward from the central-portion. The method also includes the steps of determining an actual-ratio of the first-factor and the second-factor, and determining an offset-position of the lens relative to the imager based on the focused-position, a ratio-difference between the actual-ratio and a desired-ratio, and an expansion-characteristic of an adhesive that is used to fixedly couple the lens to the imager. The method also includes the step of applying the adhesive to fixedly couple the lens to the imager while the lens is in the offset-position. 1. A method of assembling a camera , said method comprising:determining a focused-position of a lens relative to an imager where an image is focused on the imager;determining a first-factor indicative of focus quality at a central-portion of the imager;determining a second-factor indicative of focus quality at an outer-portion of the imager, wherein the outer-portion is characterized as displaced radially outward from the central-portion;determining an actual-ratio of the first-factor and the second-factor;determining an offset-position of the lens relative to the imager based on the focused-position, a ratio-difference between the actual-ratio and a desired-ratio, and an expansion-characteristic of an adhesive used to fixedly couple the lens to the imager; andapplying the adhesive to fixedly couple the lens to the imager while the lens is in the offset-position.2. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the ratio-difference is related to a position-difference between the focused-position and the offset-position by an ...

DUAL-FOCUS CAMERA FOR AUTOMATED VEHICLES

A dual-focus camera suitable for use on an automated includes an imager, a lens-assembly, and a negative-meniscus-lens (NML). The imager is used to detect an image of a field-of-view. The lens-assembly is used to direct the image from the field-of-view toward the imager. The lens-assembly is characterized as focused at a first-distance in the field-of view. The negative-meniscus-lens is interposed between the imager and the lens-assembly. The negative-meniscus-lens is configured to focus a portion of the image onto the imager. The portion is characterized as less than a whole of the image and focused at a second-distance in the field-of-view independent from the first-distance. 1. A dual-focus camera suitable for use on an automated vehicle , said camera comprising:an imager used to detect an image of a field-of-view;a lens-assembly used to direct the image from the field-of-view toward the imager, said lens-assembly characterized as focused at a first-distance in the field-of view; anda negative-meniscus-lens interposed between the imager and the lens-assembly, said negative-meniscus-lens configured to focus a portion of the image onto the imager, said portion characterized as less than a whole of the image and focused at a second-distance in the field-of-view independent from the first-distance.2. The camera in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the negative-meniscus-lens is configured to have a fixed focal-length.3. The camera in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the negative-meniscus-lens is configured to have an adjustable focal-length.4. The camera in accordance with claim 3 , wherein the adjustable focal-length is characterized by a range of adjustability claim 3 , and the range is selected such that the second-distance can be adjusted to be equal the first-distance.5. The camera in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the camera includes a filter configured so light that passes through the negative-meniscus-lens is filtered different from light that does not ...

MULTIPLE IMAGER CAMERA

A multiple imager camera includes a block, an imager, and an alignment apparatus. The block is configured to direct an image to a plurality of imagers located proximate to a plurality of apertures defined by the block. The imager of the plurality of imagers is configured to receive the image through an aperture of the plurality of apertures. The alignment apparatus is interposed between the block and the imager. The alignment apparatus is configured to allow for six degrees of freedom to align the imager with the image. The six degrees of freedom include adjustment along a x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis of the aperture, and adjustment about a pitch-axis, a yaw-axis, and a roll-axis of the aperture. The alignment apparatus is further configured to fixedly couple the imager to the block after the imager is aligned with the image. 1. A multiple imager camera comprising:a block configured to direct an image to a plurality of imagers located proximate to a plurality of apertures defined by the block;an imager of the plurality of imagers configured to receive the image through an aperture of the plurality of apertures; andan alignment apparatus interposed between the block and the imager, said alignment apparatus configured to allow for six degrees of freedom to align the imager with the image, wherein the six degrees of freedom include adjustment along a x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis of the aperture, and adjustment about a pitch-axis, a yaw-axis, and a roll-axis of the aperture, said alignment apparatus further configured to fixedly couple the imager to the block after the imager is aligned with the image.2. The camera in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the camera includes a beam-splitter configured to direct the image to the plurality of apertures.3. The camera in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the alignment apparatus includesan outer ring coupled to the block and configured to allow for adjustment along the x-axis and the y-axis; anda hemispherical ring coupled ...

Integrated Camera, Ambient Light Detection, And Rain Sensor Assembly

An integrated camera, ambient light detection, and rain sensor assembly suitable for installation behind a windshield of a driver operated vehicle or an automated vehicle includes an imager-device. The imager-device is formed of an array of pixels configured to define a central-portion and a periphery-portion of the imager-device. Each pixel of the array of pixels includes a plurality of sub-pixels. Each pixel in the central-portion is equipped with a red/visible/visible/visible filter (RVVV filter) arranged such that each pixel in the central-portion includes a red sub-pixel and three visible-light sub-pixels. Each pixel in the periphery-portion is equipped with a red/green/blue/near-infrared filter (RGBN filter) arranged such that each pixel in the periphery-portion includes a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, a blue sub-pixel, and a near-infrared sub-pixel. 1. An integrated camera , ambient light detection , and rain sensor assembly suitable for installation behind a windshield of a vehicle , said assembly comprising:an imager-device formed of an array of pixels configured to define a central-portion and a periphery-portion of the imager-device, wherein each pixel of the array of pixels includes a plurality of sub-pixels, each pixel in the central-portion is equipped with a red/visible/visible/visible filter (RVVV filter) arranged such that each pixel in the central-portion includes a red sub-pixel and three visible-light sub-pixels, and each pixel in the periphery-portion is equipped with a red/green/blue/near-infrared filter (RGBN filter) arranged such that each pixel in the periphery-portion includes a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, a blue sub-pixel, and a near-infrared sub-pixel.2. The assembly in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the assembly further includesa main-lens configured to focus light from the field-of-view onto the central-portion; anda ring-lens formed of a plurality of catadioptric-elements configured to direct light from outside the field- ...

VEHICLE OPTICAL SENSOR SYSTEM

An optical sensor system adapted to operate through a window of a vehicle includes a lens, a plurality of optoelectronic devices, and an optical device. The lens is configured to direct light from a field-of-view toward a focal plane. The plurality of optoelectronic devices are arranged proximate to the focal plane. The plurality of optoelectronic devices includes a first optoelectronic device operable to detect an image from a first portion of the field-of-view, and a second optoelectronic device operable to detect light from a second portion of the field-of-view distinct from the first portion. The optical device is configured to direct light from outside the field-of-view toward the second portion. 1. An optical sensor system adapted to operate through a window of a vehicle , said optical sensor system comprising:a lens configured to direct light from a field-of-view toward a focal plane;a plurality of optoelectronic devices arranged proximate to the focal plane, wherein said plurality of optoelectronic devices includes a first optoelectronic device operable to detect an image from a first portion of the field-of-view, and a second optoelectronic device operable to detect light from a second portion of the field-of-view distinct from the first portion; andan optical device configured to direct light from outside the field-of-view toward the second portion.2. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the lens and the optical device cooperate to create a blind zone between the first portion and the second portion.3. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the second optoelectronic device and the optical device cooperate to form a rain sensor for detecting moisture on the window.4. The system in accordance with claim 3 , wherein the system includes an infrared light source configured emit light toward the window where the rain sensor is detecting moisture on the window.5. The system in accordance with claim 4 , wherein the system includes a prism ...

Phased Metalens for Adjusting a Focus of an Image

The techniques of this disclosure relate to a system for adjusting a focus of an image. A system includes a phased metalens configured to adjust a focus of an image detected by an imaging substrate of an image sensor to compensate for warpage of the imaging substrate. The phased metalens can achieve a near-diffraction-limited focusing over incoming light wavelengths using precisely defined nanoscale subwavelength resolution structures.

INTRA-VEHICLE SITUATIONAL AWARENESS FEATURING CHILD PRESENCE

A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle includes receiving camera data, thermal data and radar data with respect to the vehicle. The received data is stored to at least a first buffer and a second buffer, wherein the first buffer has a length associated with a first duration of time and the second buffer has a length associated with a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time. The camera data, thermal data, and radar data stored in the respective first and second buffers is analyzed to detect and track camera-based objects, radar-based objects, and thermal-based objects, which are utilized to generate an output indicating whether an occupant was detected. 1. A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle , the method comprising:receiving camera data and thermal data;analyzing the camera data, wherein the camera data is analyzed over at least a first duration of time to detect one or more camera-based objects;analyzing the thermal data, wherein the thermal data is analyzed over at least a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time to detect one or more thermal-based objects;cross-correlating locations of the camera-based objects and the thermal-based objects to verify detection of an occupant within the vehicle; andgenerating an output indicating the detection of an occupant based on the tracked camera-based objects, thermal-based objects, and cross-correlation of the respective objects with one another.2. The method of claim 1 , further including tracking the camera-based objects and thermal-based objects to correlate objects tracked in the first duration of time with objects tracked in the second duration of time to verify detection of occupants within the vehicle.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the camera data is stored to at least a first buffer corresponding with the first duration of time and wherein the thermal data is stored to at least a second buffer corresponding with the second duration of time.4. ...

OBJECT DETECTION SENSOR ALIGNMENT

An illustrative example object detection system includes a sensor having a field of view. The sensor is configured to emit radiation and to detect at least some of the radiation reflected by an object within the field of view. A panel in the field of view allows the radiation to pass through the panel. The panel being is configured to be set in a fixed position relative to a vehicle coordinate system. A plurality of reflective alignment markers are situated on the panel in the field of view. The reflective alignment markers reflect radiation emitted by the sensor back toward the sensor. A processor is configured to determine an alignment of the sensor with the vehicle coordinate system based on an indication from the sensor regarding radiation reflected by the reflective alignment markers and detected by the sensor. 1. An object detection system , comprising:a sensor having a field of view, the sensor being configured to emit radiation and to detect at least some of the radiation reflected by an object within the field of view;a panel in the field of view, the panel allowing the radiation to pass through the panel, the panel being configured to be set in a fixed position relative to a vehicle coordinate system;a plurality of reflective alignment markers situated on the panel in the field of view, the reflective alignment markers reflecting radiation emitted by the sensor back toward the sensor; anda processor that is configured to determine an alignment of the sensor with the vehicle coordinate system based on an indication from the sensor regarding radiation reflected by the reflective alignment markers and detected by the sensor.2. The object detection system of claim 1 , whereinthe panel comprises a first material; andthe reflective alignment markers comprise a second, different material applied to the panel.3. The object detection system of claim 2 , wherein the reflective alignment markers comprise a film applied to the panel.4. The object detection system of ...

MULTIPLE IMAGER VEHICLE OPTICAL SENSOR SYSTEM

An optical sensor system that includes a master lens, an optical diffuser, and a plurality of optoelectronic devices. The master lens is positioned on the vehicle to observe a field of view about the vehicle. An optical diffuser is located proximate to a focal plane of the master lens. The diffuser is configured to display an image of the field of view from the master lens. A first optoelectronic device generates a first video signal indicative of images on a first portion of the diffuser. A second optoelectronic device generates a second video signal indicative of images on a second portion of the diffuser. The optoelectronic devices may be sensitive to distinct ranges of wavelength. The second portion substantially overlaps the first portion such that the image captured by the first optoelectronic device is substantially the same as the image captured by the second optoelectronic device. 1. An optical sensor system adapted for use on a vehicle , said system comprising:a master lens positioned on the vehicle to observe a field of view about the vehicle, said master lens characterized as defining a focal plane;an optical diffuser located proximate to the focal plane of the master lens, said diffuser configured to display an image of the field of view from the master lens; anda plurality of optoelectronic devices configured to view the diffuser, wherein said plurality of optoelectronic devices includes a first optoelectronic device operable to generate a first video signal indicative of images on a first portion of the diffuser, and a second optoelectronic device operable to generate a second video signal indicative of images on a second portion of the diffuser, wherein the second portion substantially overlaps the first portion such that the image captured by the first optoelectronic device is substantially the same as the image captured by the second optoelectronic device.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second portion overlaps more than fifty percent (50%) ...

OBJECT SENSOR INCLUDING PITCH COMPENSATION

An illustrative example detector for use on a vehicle includes a radiation emitter having a near field region that is defined at least in part by a wavelength of radiation emitted by the radiation emitter. A radiation steering device includes a plurality of reflectors, an actuator, and a controller. The reflectors are situated to reflect the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter. The reflectors are in the near field region and have at least one characteristic that limits any phase shift of the reflected radiation. The actuator is configured to adjust an orientation of the reflectors. The controller is configured to determine an orientation of the plurality of reflectors relative to the radiation emitter to steer the emitted radiation reflected from the reflectors in a determined direction. The controller is configured to control the actuator to achieve the determined orientation. 1. A detector for use on a vehicle , the detector comprising:a radiation emitter having a near field region that is defined at least in part by a wavelength of radiation emitted by the radiation emitter; and a plurality of reflectors situated to reflect the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter, the plurality of reflectors being in the near field region, the plurality of reflectors having at least one characteristic that limits any phase shift of the emitted radiation reflected from the reflectors;', 'an actuator configured to adjust an orientation of the plurality of reflectors; and', 'a controller configured to determine an orientation of the plurality of reflectors relative to the radiation emitter to steer the emitted radiation reflected from the reflectors in a determined direction, the controller being configured to control the actuator to achieve the determined orientation., 'a radiation steering device including'}2. The detector of claim 1 , whereinthe at least one characteristic of the plurality of reflectors comprises an index of refraction of a reflecting material of ...

Object Detection Sensor Alignment

An illustrative example object detection system includes a sensor having a field of view. The sensor is configured to emit radiation and to detect at least some of the radiation reflected by an object within the field of view. A panel in the field of view allows the radiation to pass through the panel. The panel being is configured to be set in a fixed position relative to a vehicle coordinate system. A plurality of reflective alignment markers are situated on the panel in the field of view. The reflective alignment markers reflect radiation emitted by the sensor back toward the sensor. A processor is configured to determine an alignment of the sensor with the vehicle coordinate system based on an indication from the sensor regarding radiation reflected by the reflective alignment markers and detected by the sensor. 1. A system comprising: cause a sensor of a vehicle to emit radiation through a panel of the vehicle that is transparent to the radiation, the panel disposed in a fixed position relative to a vehicle coordinate system of the vehicle;', 'receive, from the sensor, information about reflected radiation caused by the radiation being reflected off a plurality of reflective alignment markers that are disposed on the panel; and', 'determine, based on the information about the reflected radiation, an alignment of the sensor relative to the vehicle coordinate system., 'a processor configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein:the processor is further configured to determine, based on the information about the reflected radiation from the reflective alignment markers, respective distances between the sensor and the reflective alignment markers; andthe determination of the alignment of the sensor relative to the vehicle coordinate system is based on the respective distances between the sensor the reflective alignment markers.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein:the processor is further configured to determine, based on the respective distances between the sensor ...

Multispectral Object-Detection with Thermal Imaging

This document describes techniques, apparatuses, and systems for enabling multispectral object-detection with thermal imaging. A thermal sensor, a multispectral stereo camera system, and an illumination system are used in combination to provide a multispectral object-detection system for use with safety or driving systems for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. The illumination system can provide illumination for the stereo camera system and serve as a range-finder that can determine a distance between the stereo camera system and an object in the system's field-of-view. The stereo camera system can include one or more of various camera or sensor technologies, including infrared or near-infrared, thermal imaging, or visible light. The system can be used to detect objects in the field-of-view, determine a distance to the object, and estimate the object's size and relative motion. The system can reduce costs and resource usage while enabling accurate, high-quality object-detections for safety and autonomous or semi-autonomous control. 1. A system comprising:a thermal sensor configured to detect thermal radiation emitted from an object in a field-of-view (FOV) of the thermal sensor and from a background around the object and provide thermal data, based on the thermal radiation;a non-thermal sensor configured to detect non-thermal radiation associated with the object and provide non-thermal data, based on the non-thermal radiation; and receive the thermal data and the non-thermal data; and', 'detect the object, based on at least one of the thermal data or the non-thermal data., 'a processor configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein:the system further comprises an active near-infrared (NIR) range-finder, the active NIR range-finder comprising:an emitter configured to emit NIR radiation; anda detector configured to detect a portion of the NIR radiation reflected from the object over a time period and provide dynamic NIR range data based on the detected portion ...

INTRA-VEHICLE SITUATIONAL AWARENESS FEATURING CHILD PRESENCE

A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle includes receiving camera data, thermal data and radar data with respect to the vehicle. The received data is stored to at least a first buffer and a second buffer, wherein the first buffer has a length associated with a first duration of time and the second buffer has a length associated with a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time. The camera data, thermal data, and radar data stored in the respective first and second buffers is analyzed to detect and track camera-based objects, radar-based objects, and thermal-based objects, which are utilized to generate an output indicating whether an occupant was detected. 1. A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle , the method comprising:receiving camera data, thermal data and radar data;storing the camera data, the thermal data, and the radar data to at least a first buffer and a second buffer, wherein the first buffer has a length associated with a first duration of time and the second buffer has a length associated with a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time;analyzing the camera data stored in the first buffer and the second buffer to detect and track camera-based objects;analyzing the radar data stored in the first buffer and the second buffer to detect and track radar-based objects;analyzing the thermal data stored in the first buffer and the second buffer to detect and track thermal-based objects;generating an output indicating the detection of an occupant based on the tracked camera-based objects, radar-based objects, and thermal-based objects.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein analyzing the thermal data includes extracting one or more features from the thermal data stored in the first buffer and the second buffer and utilizing the extracted features from each of the first buffer and the second buffer to detect and track thermal-based objects.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein features extracted from the ...

Optics device for testing cameras useful on vehicles

An illustrative example embodiment of a camera testing device includes a plurality of optic components in a predetermined arrangement that places a center of each of the optic components in a position to be aligned with a line of sight of a respective, predetermined portion of a camera field of view when the plurality of optic components are between the camera and at least one target.

OBJECT DETECTOR

A lidar unit includes a housing, a laser, a detector, a window, and a target. The housing is configured to define an opening. The laser and the detector are disposed within the housing. The laser is operable to direct (e.g. scan, steer) a beam of light through the opening toward a field-of-view. The detector is operable to detect a reflection of the beam by an object in the field-of-view. The window is disposed within the opening of the housing, and interposed between the object and the arrangement. The beam is projected by the laser and detected by the detector through the window. The target is disposed on the window. The target is configured to reflect the beam towards the detector. Operation of the laser is determined based on the reflection of the beam by the target towards the detector. 1. A lidar unit , comprising:a laser that directs a beam of light towards a target;a detector that detects a reflection of the beam; anda controller circuit in communication with the laser and the detector, said controller circuit configured to determine if an actual detection by the detector does not correspond to an expected detection of the beam being reflected by the target; andin response to a determination that the actual detection does not correspond to the expected detection, adjust the laser in accordance with the actual detection.2. The lidar unit in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the actual detection is output by the detector in response to the reflection being detected by the detector claim 1 , the expected detection is what is expected to be output by the detector in response to the beam being reflected by the target claim 1 , and the actual detection corresponds to the expected detection if the actual detection is substantially equal to the expected detection.3. The lidar unit in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the lidar unit further comprisesa housing configured to define an opening, said laser and said detector disposed within the housing;a window disposed ...

GROUND CLASSIFIER SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED VEHICLES

A ground-classifier system that classifies ground-cover proximate to an automated vehicle includes a lidar, a camera, and a controller. The lidar that detects a point-cloud of a field-of-view. The camera that renders an image of the field-of-view. The controller is configured to define a lidar-grid that segregates the point-cloud into an array of patches, and define a camera-grid that segregates the image into an array of cells. The point-cloud and the image are aligned such that a patch is aligned with a cell. A patch is determined to be ground when the height is less than a height-threshold. The controller is configured to determine a lidar-characteristic of cloud-points within the patch, determine a camera-characteristic of pixels within the cell, and determine a classification of the patch when the patch is determined to be ground, wherein the classification of the patch is determined based on the lidar-characteristic and the camera-characteristic. 1. A ground-classifier system that classifies a ground-cover proximate to an automated vehicle , said system comprising:a lidar that detects a point-cloud of a field-of-view about a host-vehicle;a camera that renders an image of the field-of-view; anda controller in communication with the camera and the lidar, said controller configured todefine a lidar-grid that segregates the point-cloud into an array of patches,define a camera-grid that segregates the image into an array of cells, wherein the point-cloud and the image are aligned such that a patch is aligned with a cell;determine a height of cloud-points within the patch, wherein the patch is determined to be ground when the height is less than a height-threshold,determine a lidar-characteristic of cloud-points within the patch,determine a camera-characteristic of pixels within the cell, anddetermine a classification of the patch when the patch is determined to be ground, wherein the classification of the patch is determined based on the lidar-characteristic and ...

CAMERA WITH PHASED METALENS

A camera includes a phased metalens positioned between an objective lens and an imager of the camera. The phased metalens is configured to adjust a focus plane of an image in a field of view of the camera in response to changes in an operating temperature of the camera. The phased metalens adjusts the focus plane for multiple frequencies or wavelengths light such that all light wave-fronts exiting the phased metalens arrive at the imager at a same time. 1. A camera , comprising:a phased metalens positioned between an objective lens and an imager of the camera;the phased metalens configured to adjust a focus plane of an image in a field of view of the camera in response to changes in an operating temperature of the camera,wherein the phased metalens comprises a plurality of sub-wavelength structures being grouped into arrangements having unique phase profiles based on the operating temperature of the camera.2. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the phased metalens is positioned within 1 mm of an imager focal plane.3. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the phased metalens adjusts the focus plane for multiple frequencies or wavelengths of light.4. The camera of claim 3 , wherein the wavelengths range from 400 nm to 1600 nm.5. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the phased metalens adjusts the focus plane over a temperature range of about 145 degrees Celsius.6. The camera of claim 5 , wherein the phased metalens adjusts the focus plane over changes in a focal length of about 16 μm.7. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of sub-wavelength structures are positioned at predetermined coordinates across the phased metalens.8. The camera of claim 7 , wherein the plurality of sub-wavelength structures range from two times to eight times smaller than a wavelength of light transmitted through the phased metalens.9. The camera of claim 7 , wherein the plurality of sub-wavelength structures are grouped into a plurality of arrangements having unique phase profiles;the unique phase ...

System and method for calibrating intrinsic parameters of a camera using optical raytracing techniques

A method of calibrating intrinsic parameters associated with a camera includes positioning a camera to receive collimated light from a rotatable collimator, wherein the collimated light is provided to the camera via a target having a central target aperture and a plurality of peripheral target apertures located on a periphery of the target. The method further includes rotating the collimator along a first axis extending through an entrance pupil location of the camera and recording spot positions associated with collimated light provided through one or more target apertures of the target at each first axis interval and determining a distortion profile associated with the camera based on the recorded spot positions measured at the plurality of first axis intervals.

OBJECT SENSOR ASSEMBLY INCLUDING STEREOSCOPIC CAMERAS AND RANGE FINDERS

An illustrative example sensor device includes a plurality of range finders that each have an emitter configured to emit a selected type of radiation and a detector configured to detect the selected type of radiation reflected from an object. A plurality of cameras are configured to generate an image of an object based upon receiving the selected type of radiation from the object. A processor is configured to determine a distance between the sensor device and an object based on at least two of the images, wherein the images are each from a different camera. 1. A sensor system , comprising:a plurality of range finders, each of the range finders including at least one emitter that is configured to emit a selected type of radiation and at least one detector configured to detect the selected type of radiation, the range finders being configured to provide an indication of a distance between the range finders and an object based on the selected type of radiation reflected from an object and detected by the detectors;a plurality of cameras that are configured to generate respective images of an object based on detecting the selected type of radiation from an object; anda processor that is configured todetermine a distance between the sensor system and the object based on at least two of the images of the object from respective ones of the cameras.2. The sensor system of claim 1 , whereinthe cameras are configured to only detect the selected type of radiation.3. The sensor system of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of cameras comprise at least one filter that filters out any radiation other than the selected type of radiation.4. The sensor system of claim 2 , wherein the selected type of radiation comprises near infrared radiation.5. The sensor system of claim 2 , wherein the only objects in the images of the respective cameras are objects from which the selected type of radiation is detected.6. The sensor system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to determine ...

Camera with Phased Metalens

A camera includes a phased metalens positioned between an objective lens and an imager of the camera. The phased metalens is configured to adjust a focus plane of an image in a field of view of the camera in response to changes in an operating temperature of the camera. The phased metalens adjusts the focus plane for multiple frequencies or wavelengths light such that all light wave-fronts exiting the phased metalens arrive at the imager at a same time. 1. A camera , comprising:a phased metalens positioned between an objective lens and an imager of the camera,the phased metalens configured to adjust a focus plane of an image in a field of view of the camera in response to changes in color of light transmitted through the phased metalens.2. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the color of light transmitted through the phased metalens comprises a range of wavelengths from between 400 nm to 1600 nm.3. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the color of light transmitted through the phased metalens comprises a range of colors of visible light ranging in color from blue claim 1 , to green claim 1 , and to red.4. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the phased metalens is configured to adjust the focus plane further in response to changes in an operating temperature of the camera.5. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the phased metalens is positioned within 1 mm of an imager focal plane.6. A system claim 1 , the system comprising:an objective lens;an imager configured to detect an image in a field of view of the system; anda phased metalens positioned between the objective lens and the imager, the phased metalens comprising a plurality of sub-wavelength structures positioned at predetermined coordinates across the phased metalens to adjust a focus plane of the image based on a color of light transmitted from the objective lens, through the phased metalens, and to the imager.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of sub-wavelength structures range from two times to eight times ...

Multi-Purpose Camera Device For Use On A Vehicle

An illustrative example camera device includes a sensor that is configured to detect radiation. A first portion of the sensor has a first field of vision and is used for a first imaging function. A distortion correction prism directs radiation outside the first field of vision toward the sensor. A lens element between the distortion correcting prism and the sensor includes a surface at an oblique angle relative to a sensor axis. The lens element directs radiation from the distortion correcting prism toward a second portion of the sensor that has a second field of vision and is used for a second imaging function. The sensor provides a first output for the first imaging function based on radiation detected at the first portion of the sensor. The sensor provides a second output for the second imaging function based on radiation detection at the second portion. 1. A camera device , comprising:a sensor configured to detect radiation, a first portion of the sensor being used for a first imaging function, the first portion of the sensor having a first field of vision;a distortion correcting prism forward of the sensor, the distortion correcting prism directing radiation outside of the first field of vision toward the sensor; anda lens element between the distortion correcting prism and the sensor, the lens element including a surface facing toward the sensor, the surface being at an oblique angle relative to a sensor axis, the lens element directing radiation from the distortion correcting prism toward a second portion of the sensor, the second portion of the sensor being used for a second imaging function that is different than the first imaging function, the second portion of the sensor having a second field of vision outside of the first field of vision,wherein the sensor provides a first output for the first imaging function based on radiation detected at the first portion of the sensor and the sensor provides a second output for the second imaging function based on ...

Method Of Making A Camera For Use On A Vehicle

An illustrative example method of making a camera includes assembling a plurality of lens elements, a sensor, and a housing to establish an assembly with each of the lens elements and the sensor at least partially in the housing. The assembly is then situated adjacent a circuit board substrate. At least the sensor is secured to the circuit board substrate using surface mount technology (SMT) and the assembly becomes fixed relative to the circuit board substrate. 1. A method of making a camera , the method comprising:assembling a plurality of lens elements, a sensor, and a housing to establish an assembly with each of the lens elements and the sensor at least partially in the housing;situating the assembly adjacent a circuit board substrate;supporting an objective on an objective housing;situating the objective housing adjacent the circuit board substrate with a thermal curable material at an interface between the objective housing and the circuit board substrate;securing at least the sensor to the circuit board substrate using surface mount technology (SMT), wherein the assembly is fixed relative to the circuit board substrate by the securing; andsecuring the objective housing to the circuit board substrate by curing the thermal curable material while using the SMT for securing at least the sensor to the circuit board substrate.2. The method of claim 1 , comprisingproviding a ball grid array on a side of the sensor;performing the situating by situating the ball grid array adjacent a soldering paste on the circuit board substrate; andperforming the securing using reflow soldering.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the reflow soldering establishes a secure connection between at least some material of the ball grid array and the circuit board substrate.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the reflow soldering establishes a secure connection between at least some of the housing and the circuit board substrate.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the assembling includes ...

SUNLIGHT GLARE REDUCTION SYSTEM

A camera system suitable for use on an automated vehicle, includes an imager used to detect an image of a field-of-view of the system, a light-shield operable to block a portion of the image from being received by the imager, and a controller in communication with the imager and the light-shield. The controller is configured to position the light-shield in a line-of-sight between a bright-spot and the imager. 1. A camera system suitable for use on an automated vehicle , said system comprising:an imager used to detect an image of a field-of-view of the system;a light-shield operable to block a portion of the image from being received by the imager; anda controller in communication with the imager and the light-shield, said controller configured to position the light-shield in a line-of-sight between a bright-spot and the imager.2. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the system includes a camera-lens interposed between the imager and the field-of-view claim 1 , said camera-lens used to focus the image onto the imager.3. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the light-shield is interposed between the camera-lens and the bright-spot.4. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the system includes an aperture-stop located between the imager and the camera-lens claim 2 , and the light-shield is located at the aperture-stop.5. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the light-shield is located between the camera-lens and the imager.6. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the light-shield includes an absorber supported by a transparent-film. This disclosure generally relates to a vision system, and more particularly relates to a vision system suitable for use on an automated vehicle.It is known that camera systems are severely impaired when a bright light source, such as the Sun or head-lights from an on-coming vehicle for example, is in the direct field-of-view. The light-to-dark contrast of sunlight compared to the ...

Object detection via comparison of synchronized pulsed illumination and camera imaging

An image processing system may comprise a global shutter camera, an illumination emitter, and a processing system comprising at least one processor and memory. The processing system may be configured to control the image processing system to: control the illumination emitter to illuminate a scene; control the global shutter camera to capture a sequence of images of the scene, wherein the captured sequence of images includes images that are captured without illumination of the scene by the illumination emitter and images that are captured while the scene is illuminated by the illumination emitter; and determine presence of an object in the scene based on comparison of the images captured without illumination of the scene and images captured with illumination of the scene.

Apparatus and method for thermal detection

A thermal detecting device (20) for sensing temperature at multiple locations (62, 64) proximate to the detecting device is provided. The detecting device (20) has a pair of infrared detectors (32, 34) each configured to measure temperature of two locations (62, 64) by receiving infrared energy of the two locations (62, 64). A housing (22) encloses the pair of infrared detectors (32, 34). The housing (22) is configured with an aperture (24) to allow the infrared energy of the two locations (62, 64) to be received by the pair of infrared detectors (32, 34). A reflective mirror or two mirrors (30A, 30B) focus the infrared energy of the two locations (62, 64) towards the pair of infrared detectors (32, 34). The detecting device (20) may be configured to determine if there is a temperature differential at a location as the housing (22) moves with respect to the location.

Intra-vehicle situational awareness featuring child presence

A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle includes receiving camera data, thermal data and radar data with respect to the vehicle. The received data is stored to at least a first buffer and a second buffer, wherein the first buffer has a length associated with a first duration of time and the second buffer has a length associated with a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time. The camera data, thermal data, and radar data stored in the respective first and second buffers is analyzed to detect and track camera-based objects, radar-based objects, and thermal-based objects, which are utilized to generate an output indicating whether an occupant was detected.

Object sensor assembly including stereoscopic cameras and range finders

An illustrative example sensor device (22) includes a plurality of range finders (24RF-28RF) that each have an emitter configured to emit a selected type of radiation and a detector configured to detect the selected type of radiation reflected from an object (42, 44). A plurality of cameras (24C-28C) are configured to generate an image (54, 56) of the object (42, 44) based upon receiving the selected type of radiation from the object (42, 44). A processor (50) is configured to determine a distance between the sensor device (22) and the object (42, 44) based on at least two of the images (54, 56), wherein the images (54, 56) are each from a different camera (24C-28C).

MAIL PROCESSING DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE WORKSTATIONS

Camera assembly method with adhesive shrink offset based on individual lens characteristic

Ground classifier system for automated vehicles

A ground-classifier system (10) that classifies ground-cover (12) proximate to an automated vehicle includes a lidar (16), a camera (30), and a controller (34). The lidar (16) that detects a point-cloud of a field-of-view. The camera (30) that renders an image of the field-of-view. The controller (34) is configured to define a lidar-grid (38) that segregates the point-cloud into an array of patches, and define a camera-grid that segregates the image into an array of cells. The point-cloud and the image are aligned such that a patch (50) is aligned with a cell (52). A patch (50) is determined to be ground (56) when the height (54) is less than a height-threshold (58). The controller (34) is configured to determine a lidar-characteristic (42) of cloud-points (20) within the patch (50), determine a camera-characteristic (60) of pixels (70) within the cell (52), and determine a classification (36) of the patch (50) when the patch (50) is determined to be ground (56), wherein the classification (36) of the patch (50) is determined based on the lidar-characteristic (42) and the camera-characteristic (60).

Integrated camera, ambient light detection, and rain sensor assembly

An integrated camera, ambient light (54) detection, and rain sensor assembly (20) suitable for installation behind a windshield (12) of a driver operated vehicle (10) or an automated vehicle (10) includes an imager-device (26). The imager-device (26) is formed of an array (28) of pixels configured to define a central-portion (32) and a periphery-portion (34) of the imager-device (26). Each pixel (30) of the array (28) of pixels includes a plurality of sub-pixels. Each pixel (30) in the central-portion (32) is equipped with a red/visible/visible/visible filter (RVVV filter (38)) arranged such that each pixel (30) in the central-portion (32) includes a red sub-pixel (30A) and three visible-light sub-pixels (30B). Each pixel (30) in the periphery-portion (34) is equipped with a red/green/blue/near-infrared filter (RGBN filter (40)) arranged such that each pixel (30) in the periphery-portion (34) includes a red sub-pixel (30A), a green sub-pixel (36B), a blue sub-pixel (36C), and a near-infrared sub-pixel (36D).

Method of making a camera for use on a vehicle

An illustrative example method of making a camera (20) includes assembling a plurality of lens elements (28), a sensor (34), and a housing (30) to establish an assembly (22) with each of the lens elements (28) and the sensor (34) at least partially in the housing(30). The assembly (22) is then situated adjacent a circuit board substrate (24). At least the sensor (34) is secured to the circuit board substrate (24) using surface mount technology (SMT) and the assembly (22) becomes fixed relative to the circuit board substrate (24).

Method of making a camera for use on a vehicle

Vehicle Pre-Impact Sensing System Having Signal Modulation

A vehicle pre-impact sensing system is provided that includes an array of energy signal transmitters mounted on a vehicle for transmitting signals within multiple transmit zones spaced from the vehicle and an array of receiver elements mounted on the vehicle for receiving signals reflected from an object located in one or more multiple receive zones indicative of the object being in certain one or more zones. A processor processes the received reflected signals and determines range, location, speed and direction of the object, determines whether the object is expected to impact the vehicle as a function of the determined range, location, speed and direction of the object, and generates an output signal indicative of a pre-impact event. The system may detect one or more features of a target object, such as a front end of a vehicle. Additionally, the system may modulate the transmit beams. Further, the system may perform a terrain normalization to remove stationary items.

Synchronous imaging using segmented illumination

In an actively illuminated imaging system (240), illumination of a segmented scene (260A-D) is synchronized with an image sensing period. A scene is segmented into a plurality of scene portions (260A-D) utilizing a segmented lens (256). In an aspect, a first scene portion (260A) is illuminated when an imager (254) is actively collecting photogenerated charge from the first scene portion (260A), and a second scene portion (260B) is illuminated when an imager (254) is actively collecting photogenerated charge from the second scene portion (260B). The sensitivity of an image sensor (254) is maximized, while simultaneously minimizing the amount of light that must be supplied to illuminate a scene. An irradiance pattern is varied allowing a more uniform distribution of light. Bands of varying wavelength, polarization, and light intensity may be variously applied to illuminate individual scene segments, as needed to enhance an identification of an object in the scene. The present invention is particularly useful with high frame rate imaging systems.

Non-contact gesture recognition system and method

A non-contact gesture recognition system (10) for recognizing gestures (28) made by an occupant (12) of a vehicle (14) using a first multiple-zone temperature sensor equipped with an array of temperature sensors (32). The sensor outputs an array signal indicative of a zone temperature for each of a plurality of zones (36) within the vehicle (14). The array may be oriented such that a sample direction on the array arising from the gesture (28) is characterized as diagonal. The sensor may include a multi-focal length Fresnel lens (34) panel formed of a plurality of Fresnel lens (34) elements (62) having various focal lengths.

Camera with phased metalens

A camera includes a phased metalens positioned between an objective lens and an imager of the camera. The phased metalens is configured to adjust a focus plane of an image in a field of view of the camera in response to changes in an operating temperature of the camera. The phased metalens adjusts the focus plane for multiple frequencies or wavelengths light such that all light wave-fronts exiting the phased metalens arrive at the imager at a same time.

Thermal radiation detector

An object detection system is provided for detecting a thermal emitting object in a blind zone proximate to a host vehicle. The system includes a thermal radiation detector located on a host vehicle and configured to sense temperature of multiple coverage zones proximate to the host vehicle. A processor processes temperature sensed by an infrared detector. The processor determines a change in thermal temperature sensed by the infrared detector and determines the presence of an object in the coverage zone based on the change in the sensed temperature. An output provides a signal indicative of an object sensed in the coverage zone based on the determined change in temperature. The thermal radiation detector may include a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first coverage zone by receiving infrared radiation from the first coverage zone, and a second infrared detector configured to measure temperature of second and third coverage zones by receiving infrared radiation from the second and third coverage zones.

Multiple imager camera

A multiple imager camera includes a block, an imager, and an alignment apparatus. The block is configured to direct an image to a plurality of imagers located proximate to a plurality of apertures defined by the block. The imager of the plurality of imagers is configured to receive the image through an aperture of the plurality of apertures. The alignment apparatus is interposed between the block and the imager. The alignment apparatus is configured to allow for six degrees of freedom to align the imager with the image. The six degrees of freedom include adjustment along a x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis of the aperture, and adjustment about a pitch-axis, a yaw-axis, and a roll-axis of the aperture. The alignment apparatus is further configured to fixedly couple the imager to the block after the imager is aligned with the image.

Method of operation for a vision-based occupant sensing system

Image processing parameters of an imaging chip (20b) in a vision-based occupant sensing system (VS) are adjusted for each frame based on ambient illumination responsive information obtained in the idle period preceding that frame (36, 42). The same sensing data is also used to determine if active illumination is needed to supplement existent ambient illumination during the ensuing image acquisition interval (38). The inter-frame ambient illumination is detected with an external light sensor (24) or with selected pixels of the imaging chip (20b), and the information is used to calculate and set the gain and integration time (42) of the imaging chip (20b). In applications where the resolution of the imaging chip (20b) significantly exceeds the resolution required for occupant sensing, intensity data from one or more otherwise inactive pixels (28) is averaged with the intensity data from the normally active pixels (26) to adapt the sensitivity of the imaging chip (20b) to changing ambient illumination.

Object detection system and method using a camera and a multiple zone temperature sensor

A system (10) and method (300) to provide a notification to an operator (20) of a vehicle (12) that an object (14) is proximate to the vehicle (12). Data from a visible light camera (16) and a multiple zone temperature sensor (18) are combined or fused to determine which regions of a display (32) should be highlighted in order to help the vehicle (12) operator (20) better notice or discern an object (14) shown on a display (32). The region or area of the display (32) highlighted is determined by displaying a highlighted area or icon on the display (32) corresponding to an area where objects detected on image data (26) maps of hue and/or saturation and/or intensity data from the camera (16) intersect with objects detected on a temperature data (28) map from the temperature sensor (18). Misalignment between the camera (16) and the temperature sensor (18) may be tolerated by expanding the object (14) detected on the various maps in order to increase the probability of an intersection occurring.

Apparatus and method for thermal side detection in a vehicle

DEVICE FOR SENDING POSTAL MAIL BY LOTS

Apparatus and method for thermal side detection in a vehicle

System oder verfahren zur bildverbesserung

High voltage (hv) terminal frame

A two-piece high voltage (HV) terminal frame having a terminal frame and a contact spring. The terminal frame includes at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a middle portion forming an opening for receiving a first bus bar and a second bus bar. The contact spring is configured to engage the top portion of the terminal frame, wherein the contact spring includes a spring portion that extends into the opening of the terminal frame.

Apparat und verfahren zur thermischen seiten- detektion in einem fahrzeug

Multispectral object-detection with thermal imaging

This document describes techniques, apparatuses, and systems for enabling multispectral object-detection with thermal imaging. A thermal sensor, a multispectral stereo camera system, and an illumination system are used in combination to provide a multispectral object-detection system for use with safety or driving systems for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. The illumination system can provide illumination for the stereo camera system and serve as a range-finder that can determine a distance between the stereo camera system and an object in the system's field-of-view. The stereo camera system can include one or more of various camera or sensor technologies, including infrared or near-infrared, thermal imaging, or visible light. The system can be used to detect objects in the field-of-view, determine a distance to the object, and estimate the object's size and relative motion. The system can reduce costs and resource usage while enabling accurate, high-quality object-detections for safety and autonomous or semi-autonomous control.

Phased metalens for adjusting a focus of an image

The techniques of this disclosure relate to a system for adjusting a focus of an image. A system includes a phased metalens configured to adjust a focus of an image detected by an imaging substrate of an image sensor. The phased metalens is further configured to adjust a property of light that reaches the imaging substrate based on a change in a flatness of the imaging substrate. The property of the light that reaches the imaging substrate includes a phase of all the light that reaches the imaging substrate at a same time. The phased metalens accomplishes this by achieving near-diffraction-limited focusing over the incoming light wavelengths using precisely defined nanoscale subwavelength resolution structures.

Optics device for testing cameras useful on vehicles

An illustrative example embodiment of a camera testing device (30) includes a plurality of optic components (32-40) in a predetermined arrangement that places a center (42) of each of the optic components (32-40) in a position to be aligned with a line of sight of a respective, predetermined section (50-58) of a camera field of view when the plurality of optic components (32-40) are between the camera and at least one target.

Camera Focusing Including Lens Centration Estimation Using Variable Focal Length Phased Metalens

Described is camera focusing including lens centration estimation using variable focal length phased metalenses. Camera modular alignment and test (CMAT) equipment checks the modular transfer function (MTF) performance of lenses and an image sensor. The CMAT equipment positions a variable focal length phased metalens between the lenses and the image sensor. The metalens includes multiple segments that provide a variable focus depending on distance and angle from boresight of the image sensor. By measuring optical characteristics of the lenses at two opposing segments of the metalens, defocusing effects and a lens centration tilt vector can be computed. Repositioning the lenses to align the centration tilt vector with the boresight of the image sensor improves the MTF performance. A final camera assembly with lenses in precise alignment with the image sensor can be produced, which may improve production output by increasing pass rate at an end of line tester.

Camera with phased metalens

A camera includes a phased metalens positioned between an objective lens and an imager of the camera. The phased metalens is configured to adjust a focus plane of an image in a field of view of the camera in response to changes in an operating temperature of the camera. The phased metalens adjusts the focus plane for multiple frequencies or wavelengths light such that all light wave-fronts exiting the phased metalens arrive at the imager at a same time.

Using multiple target distances to determine long-term quality and/or performance over a temperature range

A camera testing system for determining performance of a camera comprising an imaging sensor and a lens, the system comprising a processing system comprising at least one processor and memory. The processing system may be configured to: control the camera to capture, using the imaging sensor, a first image through the lens of a target disposed at a first distance from the camera; determine a first modulation transfer function (MTF) value from the first image; control the camera to capture, using the imaging sensor, a second image through the lens of the target disposed at a second distance from the camera that is different from the first distance; determine a second MTF value from the second image; and determine performance of the camera based on the first MTF value, the second MTF value and a difference between the first MTF value and the second MTF value.

Object detection via comparison of synchronized pulsed illumination and camera imaging

An image processing system may comprise a global shutter camera, an illumination emitter, and a processing system comprising at least one processor and memory. The processing system may be configured to control the image processing system to: control the illumination emitter to illuminate a scene; control the global shutter camera to capture a sequence of images of the scene, wherein the captured sequence of images includes images that are captured without illumination of the scene by the illumination emitter and images that are captured while the scene is illuminated by the illumination emitter; and determine presence of an object in the scene based on comparison of the images captured without illumination of the scene and images captured with illumination of the scene.

Object sensor including pitch compensation

System or method for enhancing an image

A system (20) and method for enhancing the contrast within an image (22). An enhanced image (24) can be generated in a real-time or substantially real-time manner from an initial image (22). The pixel values (38) of the initial image (22) can be used to populate a histogram (40) or otherwise serve as the basis for subsequent processing. A valley (44) can be identified within the range of pixel values (38) for use as a stretch metric (48) used by a stretch heuristic (46) to expand the contrast of the pixel values (38) in the initial image (22) by expanding the range of pixel values (38) associated with the pixels (36) in the histogram (40). In some embodiments, the initial image (22) is first divided into image regions (52) that are each associated with individualized processing. A bilinear interpolation step (56) can then be performed to smooth the integrated image after the individualized processing is used to stretch the pixels (36) within the individual image regions (52).

Lichtbrechender block und bildaufnahmesysteme

Intra-vehicle situational awareness featuring child presence

A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle includes receiving camera data and thermal data. The camera data is analyzed over at least a first duration of time to detect one or more camera-based objects. The thermal data is analyzed over at least a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time to detect one or more thermal-based objects. The locations of the camera-based objects and the thermal-based objects are cross-correlated to verify detection of an occupant within the vehicle. An output indicating the detection of an occupant is generated based on the tracked camera-based objects, thermal-based objects, and cross-correlation of the respective objects with one another.

Intra-vehicle situational awareness featuring child presence

A method of detecting occupants within a vehicle includes receiving camera data and thermal data. The camera data is analyzed over at least a first duration of time to detect one or more camera-based objects. The thermal data is analyzed over at least a second duration of time greater than the first duration of time to detect one or more thermal-based objects. The locations of the camera-based objects and the thermal-based objects are cross-correlated to verify detection of an occupant within the vehicle. An output indicating the detection of an occupant is generated based on the tracked camera-based objects, thermal-based objects, and cross-correlation of the respective objects with one another.

Multispectral object-detection with thermal imaging

This document describes techniques, apparatuses, and systems for enabling multispectral object-detection with thermal imaging. A thermal sensor, a multispectral stereo camera system, and an illumination system are used in combination to provide a multispectral object-detection system for use with safety or driving systems for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. The illumination system can provide illumination for the stereo camera system and serve as a range-finder that can determine a distance between the stereo camera system and an object in the system's field-of-view. The stereo camera system can include one or more of various camera or sensor technologies, including infrared or near-infrared, thermal imaging, or visible light. The system can be used to detect objects in the field-of-view, determine a distance to the object, and estimate the object's size and relative motion. The system can reduce costs and resource usage while enabling accurate, high-quality objectdetections for safety and autonomous or semi-autonomous control.

Phased metalens depth of focus increase for camera focusing

Described is phased metalens depth of focus increase for camera focusing. An objective camera lens is configured to provide a focus window across multiple radial zones within a field of view. A camera imager is configured to capture an image of the field of view. When at least two of the radial zones have different back focal lengths relative the imager and the objective lens, a phased metalens is positioned between the objective lens and the camera imager. The metalens is configured to compensate for defocus caused by the different back focal lengths by increasing, across the radial zones within the field of view, a depth of the focus window. The metalens improves focus across the field of view, which prevents variations in objective lens characteristics from reducing image quality.

Phased Metalens Depth of Focus Increase for Camera Focusing

Described is phased metalens depth of focus increase for camera focusing. An objective camera lens is configured to provide a focus window across multiple radial zones within a field of view. A camera imager is configured to capture an image of the field of view. When at least two of the radial zones have different back focal lengths relative the imager and the objective lens, a phased metalens is positioned between the objective lens and the camera imager. The metalens is configured to compensate for defocus caused by the different back focal lengths by increasing, across the radial zones within the field of view, a depth of the focus window. The metalens improves focus across the field of view, which prevents variations in objective lens characteristics from reducing image quality.

Optics device for testing cameras useful on vehicles

Using multiple target distances to determine long-term quality and/or performance over a temperature range

A camera testing system for determining performance of a camera comprising an imaging sensor and a lens, the system comprising a processing system comprising at least one processor and memory. The processing system may be configured to: control the camera to capture, using the imaging sensor, a first image through the lens of a target disposed at a first distance from the camera; determine a first modulation transfer function (MTF) value from the first image; control the camera to capture, using the imaging sensor, a second image through the lens of the target disposed at a second distance from the camera that is different from the first distance; determine a second MTF value from the second image; and determine performance of the camera based on the first MTF value, the second MTF value and a difference between the first MTF value and the second MTF value.

Driver assistance system

An illustrative example embodiment of a driver assistance system (20) includes an imaging device (22, 28) configured to be mounted to a vehicle and to provide an image of a vicinity of the vehicle. A mobile device (30) is configured to be carried by a driver and has global position system (GPS) capability that provides at least an indication of range rate information regarding a change in position of the mobile device (30). A processor utilizes information regarding the image from the imaging device (22, 28) and the indication of range rate information from the mobile device (30). The processor determines that there is at least one object in the vicinity of the vehicle based on the image, determines the speed of vehicle movement based on the range rate information, determines relative movement between the vehicle and the at least one object (64, 66) based on at least the image, and determines a risk of collision between the vehicle and the at least one object (64, 66) based on the determined speed and the determined relative movement. A driver assist output (24, 30, 62) provides a risk indication of the determined risk of collision to the driver (26).

Fahrweg anzeigesystem für ein fahrzeug mit randanzeigemarkierung für den fahrwegsbereich

Actively select lenses for camera focus processes

Camera focusing including lens centration estimation using variable focal length phased metalens

Described is camera focusing including lens centration estimation using variable focal length phased metalenses. Camera modular alignment and test (CMAT) equipment checks the modular transfer function (MTF) performance of lenses and an image sensor. The CMAT equipment positions a variable focal length phased metalens between the lenses and the image sensor. The metalens includes multiple segments that provide a variable focus depending on distance and angle from boresight of the image sensor. By measuring optical characteristics of the lenses at two opposing segments of the metalens, defocusing effects and a lens centration tilt vector can be computed. Repositioning the lenses to align the centration tilt vector with the boresight of the image sensor improves the MTF performance. A final camera assembly with lenses in precise alignment with the image sensor can be produced, which may improve production output by increasing pass rate at an end of line tester.

Using multiple target distances to determine long-term quality and/or performance over a temperature range

A camera testing system for determining performance of a camera comprising an imaging sensor and a lens, the system comprising a processing system comprising at least one processor and memory. The processing system may be configured to: control the camera to capture, using the imaging sensor, a first image through the lens of a target disposed at a first distance from the camera; determine a first modulation transfer function (MTF) value from the first image; control the camera to capture, using the imaging sensor, a second image through the lens of the target disposed at a second distance from the camera that is different from the first distance; determine a second MTF value from the second image; and determine performance of the camera based on the first MTF value, the second MTF value and a difference between the first MTF value and the second MTF value.

Actively select lenses for camera focus processes

The techniques of this disclosure relate to actively selecting lenses for camera focus processes. Test equipment may check lenses by dry-fit aligning them to a particular set of production components. If minimum focus performance cannot be achieved, then the lenses go unused for a final camera assembly. In certain situations, the unused set of lenses is salvageable for use in another camera assembly. Advanced CMAT equipment may compute and apply a rotation for unused lenses to improve their focus performance the next time they are used in a final assembly. A maximum number of attempts to rotationally fix a set of lenses may be observed to avoid trying the same lenses again and again, possibly without ever having success. This way, because the lenses actively selected can also be rotated during production, final camera assemblies can be produced that are likely to pass the EOLT, and by minimizing waste.

Apparatus for shaping the radiation pattern of a planar antenna near-field radar system

Actively select lenses for camera focus processes

The techniques of this disclosure relate to actively selecting lenses for camera focus processes. Lenses to be used during camera assembly are chosen based on whether their pairing with a specific set of production components can satisfy focus performance criteria of end of line test. Test equipment may check the lenses by dry-fit aligning them to a particular set of production components. If minimum focus performance cannot be achieved, then a different set of lenses are used to with that set of production components to produce a final camera assembly. This way, because the lenses are actively selected during production to achieve satisfactory focus performance of the EOLT, each final camera assembly is more likely to pass the EOLT, thereby improving camera production output.

Fire extinguishing medium discharge method and apparatus

Multiple-view imaging system

An improved imaging system (12) includes a single solid state interlaced imager device (40) such as a CCD camera chip, a positionable mirror (44), and a controller (48) for re-positioning the mirror (44) in synchronism with the capture of video information by the imager device (40) so as to obtain interlaced video information from multiple selected views.

Apparatus for shaping the radiation pattern of a planar antenna near-field radar system

A near-field radar apparatus includes a fixed beam planar radar antenna (22, 24) and a radiation pattern adaptation device (16) disposed substantially at the near-field boundary of the antenna. The adaptation device (16) comprises a plurality of dielectric elements (26a, 26b; 28a, 28b) that individually constitute or approximate different surface portions of an idealized quasi-spherical or quasi-cylindrical radome reflector (26, 28). The dielectric elements (26a, 26b; 28a, 28b) can be maintained physically separate or combined about the diffraction point of the antenna to form a single dielectric element (36). The dielectric elements (26a, 26b; 28a, 28b) may be mounted on a radome (30) that is otherwise transparent to the radiation pattern, or otherwise suspended at or near the near-field boundary of the antenna (22, 24).

Apparatus for shaping the radiation pattern of a planar antenna near-field radar system

A near-field radar apparatus includes a fixed beam planar radar antenna (22, 24) and a radiation pattern adaptation device (16) disposed substantially at the near-field boundary of the antenna. The adaptation device (16) comprises a plurality of dielectric elements (26a, 26b; 28a, 28b) that individually constitute or approximate different surface portions of an idealized quasi-spherical or quasi-cylindrical radome reflector (26, 28). The dielectric elements (26a, 26b; 28a, 28b) can be maintained physically separate or combined about the diffraction point of the antenna to form a single dielectric element (36). The dielectric elements (26a, 26b; 28a, 28b) may be mounted on a radome (30) that is otherwise transparent to the radiation pattern, or otherwise suspended at or near the near-field boundary of the antenna (22, 24).

High voltage (hv) terminal frame

A two-piece high voltage (HV) terminal frame having a terminal frame and a contact spring. The terminal frame includes at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a middle portion forming an opening for receiving a first bus bar and a second bus bar. The contact spring is configured to engage the top portion of the terminal frame, wherein the contact spring includes a spring portion that extends into the opening of the terminal frame.

System and method for calibrating intrinsic parameters of a camera using optical raytracing techniques

Actively select lenses for camera focus processes

Vehicle zone detection system and method

An object detection system (60) is provided for detecting a thermal emitting object in a blind zone proximate to a host vehicle (10). The system (60) includes a thermal radiation detector (20) located on a host vehicle (10) and configured to sense temperature of multiple coverage zones (22A-22C) proximate to the host vehicle (10). A processor (32) processes temperature sensed by an infrared detector (25A). The processor (32) determines a change in thermal temperature sensed by the infrared detector (25A) and determines the presence of an object (70) in the coverage zone based on the change in the sensed temperature. An output (40) provides a signal indicative of an object (70) sensed in the coverage zone (22A) based on the determined change in temperature. The thermal radiation detector (20) may include a first infrared detector configured to measure temperature of a first coverage zone (22A) by receiving infrared radiation from the first coverage zone (22A), and a second infrared detector (25B) configured to measure temperature of second and third coverage zones (22B and 22C) by receiving infrared radiation from the second and third coverage zones (20B and 22C).

Object detection system and method using a camera and a multiple zone temperature sensor

Object sensor including pitch compensation

An illustrative example detector (20) for use on a vehicle (22) includes a radiation emitter (30) having a near field region that is defined at least in part by a wavelength of radiation emitted by the radiation emitter. A radiation steering device includes a plurality of reflectors (32), an actuator (40), and a controller (42). The reflectors (32) are situated to reflect the radiation emitted by the radiation emitter (30). The reflectors (32) are in the near field region and have at least one characteristic that limits any phase shift of the reflected radiation. The actuator (40)is configured to adjust an orientation of the reflectors (32). The controller (42) is configured to determine an orientation of the plurality of reflectors (32) relative to the radiation emitter (30) to steer the emitted radiation reflected from the reflectors (32) in a determined direction. The controller (42) is configured to control the actuator (42) to achieve the determined orientation.

Multi-view image system with a single camera and a transreflective device