Method and apparatus for providing automatic mirror setting via inward facing cameras

Abstract

A method or system that is able to adjust an exterior mirror of a vehicle via an automatic mirror-setting (“AM”) model managed by a virtuous cycle containing a cloud based network (“CBN”). The system includes a set of mirrors, a set of inward facing cameras, a vehicle onboard computer (“VOC”), and AM module. In one embodiment, the mirrors, attached to a vehicle, are configured to capture at least a portion of the external environment in which the vehicle operates. The inward facing cameras, mounted in the vehicle, are configured to collect internal images, including the operator's facial features showing operator visual characteristics. The VOC, which is coupled to the CBN, is configured to determine operator vision metadata based on the internal images, operator visual characteristics, and historical stored data. The AM module is able to adaptively set a mirror to an optimal orientation so that the area of the external blind spot is minimized.

Description

BACKGROUNDTechnical Field[0001]The exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention relates to the field of communication networks. More specifically, the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention relates to operating an intelligent machine using a virtuous cycle between cloud, machine learning, and containerized sensors.Description of the Related Art[0002]With increasing popularity of automation and intelligent electronic devices, such as computerized machines, the Internet of Things (“IoT”), smart vehicles, smart phones, drones, mobile devices, airplanes, artificial intelligence (“AI”), the demand of intelligent machines and faster real-time response are increasing. To properly provide machine learning, a significant number of pieces, such as data management, model training, and data collection, needs to be improved.[0003]A conventional type of machine learning is, in itself, an exploratory process, which may involve trying different kinds of models, such as convolutional, ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an adaptive mirror system for vehicles that can adjust its orientation to minimize blind spots and track abnormal events in the external environment. The system uses an AM model that dynamically adjusts the orientation of mirrors based on external images and real-time data from a cloud-based system. The AM model is trained by a MLC that uses labeled data from a CBN to improve its performance. The system can also use one of the external mirrors to track an abnormal event and provide a notice to the driver. The labeled data from the driver's reaction to the abnormal event is used to update the AM model at the MLC. Overall, the system improves safety and driver awareness by reducing blind spots and enhancing situational awareness.

Problems solved by technology

Model training generally requires intensive computation.

As such, real-time response via machine learning model can be challenging.

A drawback associated with a traditional automobile or vehicle is that most mirrors, especially external mirrors, on both sides of the vehicle are typically set incorrectly so the driver often times has a large or big blind spot on both sides of the vehicle.

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