VIA optronics Field of View for Automotive Cameras, A Car in Front of a City Silhoutte with Field of View in Front

Field of View (FoV) –
The Field of View of Cameras in Automotive

"Field of View" (FoV), or "Sichtfeld" in German, is a crucial optical characteristic for camera systems in automotive. It describes the viewable area that a camera can capture. Different applications in the vehicle will determine the FoV range that will be needed to fulfill the operating requirements. For example, in Surround View Monitoring (SVM) systems, a horizontal FoV of 180 degrees or more is required. In Camera Mirror-replacement Systems (CMS), on the other hand, the horizontal FoV required will be less than 100 degrees.

What exactly is Horizontal Field of View (HFOV)?

VIA optronics Infographic Overview Comparing the Different Camera Lenses: Narrow from 40° to 70°, Wide from 71° to 170° and Ultrawide from 171° to 210°

Horizontal Field of View describes the angular range within which objects can be captured by the image sensor. This value is crucial for determining how wide or far a visible area should be. Different HFOV values offer flexible options depending on application requirements – from narrower focuses (e.g., 40°) to extremely wide fields of view up to 210°. This allows for optimal adaptation to various uses, such as surveillance, vehicle cameras, or industrial applications.

VIA optronics Explanation of the Areas of Vision for Which Cameras are Used in Cars: Rear View, Front View, Surround View, Mirror Replacement and Passenger Monitoring

Bird's-eye view and Surround View –
A view from above

For comprehensive monitoring of the vehicle surroundings, Surround View systems combining multiple cameras around the vehicle are often used. By integrating cameras with different FoV, a bird's-eye view is created, enabling the driver to see the vehicle from an aerial perspective. This technology aids not only in parking but also in lane departure warning by ensuring the vehicle remains correctly within its lane.

Key functions and added value of modern automotive application systems

Front View and Far Zone ADAS (In-Cabin):

  • Collision Avoidance (CA)
  • Traffic Sign Recongnition (TSR)
  • Automated Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)

Driver monitoring / Occupant Monitoring System (DMS/OMS) & DOMS (In-Cabin):

  • Driver fatigue and drowsiness detection
  • Determination of occupant positions for airbag systems
  • Video conferencing

CMS or E-Mirror (Exterior):

  • Reduces aerodynamic drag and saves 3% fuel in trucks and buses
  • Enhances car design
  • Blind spot detection during lane changes

Surround View Monitoring (Exterior):

  • Obstacle detection
  • Parking assist
  • Bird’s eye view of vehicle
  • Front and rear views

Rear View Camera (RVC) (Exterior):

  • Parking assist when backing-up
  • Obstacle detection
  • Can be part of a surround system

Technical Advantages: Proven Standards Designs and Flexible Options

Standardized Camera Housing Designs:

Pre-developed housing designs can be reused to integrate various image sensors, serializers, and lens options, significantly reducing time-to-market. These designs are already validated for automotive applications and offer high performance and cost savings through the reuse of production tools, including fixtures and assembly aids.

Flexible Lens Options:

Standardized M12 lenses that can be directly integrated for different applications provide high flexibility. Additionally, pre-validated lens options are available for immediate use. For specific optical requirements, custom lens designs can be developed in collaboration with a lens design partner, ensuring adaptation to individual needs.

These technical advantages provide an optimal combination of performance, flexibility, and quality, while enabling customization to meet specific customer requirements.