Abstract
This paper describes a new image transformation method for rear view systems intended for watching rear traffic before and during merging and lane changing maneuvers. In order to enable the driver to gain a complete overview of the rear situation without blindspots and to make correct distance judgments in one glance, we developed a novel transformation of a fisheye image to a projection model that combines a field of view of 180 degrees with near absence of distortions (when driving on a straight road) and with a magnification similar to curved door mirrors (in the center of the image and when viewed on an 9-inch display). An experiment using our prototype showed that drivers can judge distance to cars in the rear as accurately as with conventional door mirrors.
Keywords: Driver Assistance, Camera, Image Processing, Distance Perception, Rearview Mirror