How Autonomous Vehicles Use Different Camera Lenses for Better Vision

This patent describes a specific arrangement of cameras for self-driving vehicles, using multiple forward-facing cameras with different focal lengths and a pair of backward-facing cameras with identical focal lengths to achieve comprehensive vision.

What it covers

This system provides an autonomous vehicle with an optimized camera setup for seeing its surroundings. It includes several cameras facing forward, each designed with a different focal length to capture objects at various distances, like a 6 mm lens for wide views, a 12 mm lens for mid-range, and a 25 mm lens for far-off objects (Claim 3). The vehicle also has two cameras facing backward, both sharing the same focal length (Claim 1). One of the forward-facing cameras is designed to have the same focal length as these backward cameras. Optionally, the system can also include cameras on the left and right sides of the vehicle (Claim 7), along with LiDAR and RADAR sensors to measure distances and detect objects (Claims 8-9). This combination aims to provide a full 360-degree view around the vehicle (Claim 6).

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover autonomous vehicle camera systems that use only one forward-facing camera.
• —Does not cover systems where all forward-facing cameras have the exact same focal length.
• —Does not cover systems where the two backward-facing cameras have different focal lengths.
• —Does not require the inclusion of LiDAR or RADAR sensors, as these are listed as optional additions in the claims.
• —Does not cover systems where none of the forward-facing cameras share a focal length with the backward-facing cameras, as Claim 1 specifies one forward camera must match.

The clever bit

The novelty lies in precisely combining multiple forward-facing cameras with varied focal lengths for detailed, multi-range vision, while simultaneously employing two backward-facing cameras with identical focal lengths, and ensuring one forward camera matches the backward cameras' focal length. This specific arrangement aims to balance wide-angle coverage with long-range detail, both front and back.

Why it matters

The ability of an autonomous vehicle to perceive its environment accurately is crucial for safety and functionality. This patent focuses on a specific camera configuration to enhance perception, allowing the vehicle to detect objects across a wide range of distances and directions. Such optimized sensor layouts are fundamental to the development and deployment of reliable self-driving technology, impacting how autonomous trucks and cars navigate complex environments.

Real-world examples

• 1.Autonomous semi-trucks
• 2.Self-driving delivery vehicles
• 3.Robo-taxis
• 4.Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in passenger cars