Minimizing optical attribute errors for a lane departure warning system using an ultra-wide-angle camera

Abstract

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) rely on lane departure warning (LDW) technology to enhance safety while driving. However, the current LDW method is limited to cameras with standard angles of view, such as mono cameras and black boxes. In recent times, more cameras with ultra-wide-angle lenses are being used to save money and improve accuracy. However, this has led to some challenges such as fixing optical distortion, making the camera process images faster, and ensuring its performance. To effectively implement LDW, we developed three technologies: (i) distortion correction using error functions based on the projection characteristics of optical lenses, (ii) automatic vanishing point estimation using geometric characteristics, and (iii) lane tracking and lane departure detection using constraints. The proposed technology improves system stability and convenience through automatic calculation and updating of parameters required for LDW function operation. By performing automatic distortion correction and vanishing point estimation, it has also been proven that fusion with other ADAS systems including front cameras is possible. Existing systems that use vanishing point information do not consider lens distortion and have slow and inaccurate vanishing point estimation, leading to a deterioration of system performance. The proposed method enables fast and accurate vanishing point estimation, allowing for adaptive responses to changes in the road environment.