Image Processing Method for Speed Perception with Side View Camera

This paper presents a verification of the effectiveness of an image processing method, used to reduce the inconsistent speed perception caused by using the camera images in conjunction with side-view mirrors. Vision assistance technology using cameras is widely used in practical applications today. However, speed and distance perceived with camera images may differ from those viewed directly or viewed with conventional side-view mirrors. That is particularly evident in wide-angle camera images, and can easily cause a sense of discomfort experienced by the driver. A Side View Camera (SVC) shows images rearward and to the side that include the blind spots of side-view mirrors on an onboard display. It is a system to compensate side-view mirrors, broadening the driver's field of view to eliminate bind spots. SVC is used in conjunction with the side-view mirrors. In order to reduce sense of discomfort experienced by the driver, it is important to reduce the inconsistent speed perception caused by using the side-view mirrors and SVC. During 2010 SAE World Congress, we proposed an image processing method that can be used to reduce this inconsistent speed perception. In this paper, subject tests were conducted to compare the speed perception on side-view mirrors, original camera images and processed camera images. As a result, it is observed that by using the proposed image processing method, the inconsistent speed perception can be reduced.