iCatch Technology, a leading Taiwan-based AI image processing IC design company, is excited to expand the application of its highly acclaimed CR3 automotive AI Imaging SoC into camera monitoring system (CMS) market. As cameras being widely adopted on cars for passive driving assistance systems, such as surround view systems and rearview cameras, car makers also start to replace conventional physical rearview mirrors with cameras and displays for better visibility. The CR3 SoC is capable of processing multiple camera inputs simultaneously with ultra-low latency which makes it a perfect solution for CMS application.
CMS utilizes strategically positioned cameras on both sides of the vehicle to capture and process real-time images. These images are then displayed on a central control screen or independent displays, providing drivers with a wider field of view compared to traditional rearview mirrors. By eliminating blind spots caused by limited mirror size and vehicle structure, CMS offers an improved perspective of the vehicle's surroundings. New regulatory standards, such as European Union's ECE R46 and Taiwan's VSCC regulations ensure that vehicles equipped with CMS meet stringent visibility, reliability, and safety requirements.
Camera Monitoring System
Photo: iCatch Technology
iCatch Technology's automotive-grade CR3 SoC supports up to four video inputs and can output videos to displays through multiple interfaces, such as MIPI or LVDS. The CR3 SoC is also equipped with recording functionality, which can leverage the existing cameras of the CMS and record the video streams to function as a video black box. The built-in USB 3.2 high-speed interface can connect to the infotainment system to enable fast downloading and video playback of recorded video files. Regarding image visibility, the CR3 SoC's image processing engine supports high dynamic range (HDR) of up to 140dB and LED flicker mitigation (LFM) and is able to reduce the video latency to less than 30ms which is significantly lower than the standards set by CMS regulations in various countries. The built-in de-warp engine corrects image distortion caused by wide-angle lenses and can dynamically adjust the camera field of view based on the user scenario. In addition, with the built-in video digital signal processor (DSP) and neural processing unit (NPU), the CR3 SoC can accurately identify vehicles, motorcycles and pedestrians and send out warnings to the driver under emergency situations to prevent accidents.
iCatch Technology's AI imaging solutions have gained significant traction in the automotive market, with successful adoption by renowned brands in the dashcam and e-mirror sectors. As part of the company's commitment to the automotive market, iCatch Technology's automotive SoCs and ISPs are all AEC-Q100 qualified to ensure their reliability for the automotive environment. The company is also working towards obtaining the ISO 26262 design flow certification to develop automotive grade products which meet functional safety standard. This is required by most automotive OEM customers to guarantee the highest level of safety and reliability for future smart connected vehicles.
