Digital mirrors, also known as camera monitoring systems (CMS), replace traditional rearview mirrors with a camera and display system, offering enhanced visibility and functionality. Essentially, a camera captures the view behind the vehicle, and that image is then displayed on a screen that replaces or overlays the conventional mirror.
Components of a Digital Mirror System
A digital mirror system typically consists of the following key components:
- Camera: Usually mounted at the rear of the vehicle, the camera captures a wide-angle view of the surroundings. High-resolution cameras are used to provide clear and detailed images, even in low-light conditions.
- Display: The display is integrated into the rearview mirror housing or can be a separate screen mounted on the dashboard. It shows the live video feed from the camera. LCD monitors are commonly used for their brightness and clarity.
- Processor: This component processes the video signal from the camera and transmits it to the display. It may also include features such as image enhancement, distortion correction, and object detection.
How the System Functions
- Image Capture: The rear-mounted camera continuously captures images of the area behind the vehicle.
- Signal Processing: The camera sends the video signal to the processor, which cleans and enhances the image. This processing can include adjusting brightness, contrast, and color to improve visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Image Display: The processed video signal is then transmitted to the LCD screen, which displays a real-time view of the rear surroundings.
Advantages of Digital Mirrors
Digital mirrors offer several advantages over traditional mirrors:
- Wider Field of View: Cameras can capture a significantly wider field of view than traditional mirrors, reducing blind spots.
- Improved Visibility: Digital mirrors can enhance visibility in low-light conditions or during inclement weather. Some systems include infrared cameras for night vision.
- Obstruction Removal: Interior obstructions, such as passengers or cargo, do not impede the view.
- Customization: Digital mirrors often allow drivers to adjust brightness, contrast, and zoom levels to customize their viewing experience.
Example
Consider a vehicle backing up in a dimly lit parking lot. With a standard rearview mirror, visibility might be limited. However, a digital mirror system, utilizing a high-resolution camera and image processing, can provide a clear, bright, and wide view of the area behind the car, significantly improving safety and ease of maneuvering.
In essence, digital mirrors replace reflected images with captured and displayed images offering more data with increased visibility.
