Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are increasingly widespread automotive safety technologies. Parking assistance, blind spot detection, emergency braking assistance, and adaptive cruise control are among the technological advancements in ADAS.
ADAS rely on a variety of cameras, sensors, radars, and lidars to detect obstacles, assess distances, and adjust vehicle speed. Cameras and sensors are often mounted under the windshield and must be recalibrated after any windshield replacement.
A technical overview of windshield-mounted camera systems
Behind the wheel, the driver is often unaware of the complexity of the systems in place. The camera mounted behind the windshield discreetly monitors the driver’s actions and will instantly alert the vehicle if a sudden obstacle threatens a collision.
General functioning
ADAS cameras are typically located behind the central rearview mirror and are designed to monitor the vehicle’s external environment. These cameras capture real-time images and transmit them to the vehicle’s electronic systems, which analyze the data to provide information and alerts to the driver or trigger automated actions, such as emergency braking.
Windshield-mounted cameras use advanced technologies to capture and process images. They may be equipped with CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensors that convert light into electrical signals. These signals are then analyzed by image processing algorithms to detect objects, vehicles, pedestrians, traffic signs, and road markings.
The primary role of these cameras is to enhance vehicle safety by helping the driver anticipate and avoid dangerous situations. Some of the safety functions provided by these cameras include:
- Vehicle and obstacle detection
- Traffic sign recognition
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
The importance of camera calibration for ADAS
The calibration of the camera connected to the windshield is crucial for ensuring the proper functioning of ADAS systems, which rely heavily on cameras and sensors integrated into the windshield. Poor calibration can have serious consequences for safety, such as incorrect braking distances, poor lane marking detection, or malfunctioning automatic emergency braking. In these cases, the vehicle’s ability to react appropriately to critical situations is compromised, increasing the risk of accidents.
Therefore, it is imperative to recalibrate the camera after a windshield replacement. The windshield change can slightly alter the position of the cameras and sensors, affecting the operation of the ADAS systems. Calibration restores the original settings and ensures these systems function optimally, enhancing the safety of drivers and passengers. Additionally, this calibration must follow the manufacturer’s standards and guidelines to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Different calibration methods
Before calibrating the camera, it is often necessary to check and correct the wheel alignment to ensure the vehicle drives straight. Once this step is completed, the camera calibration can begin.
Dynamic calibration
Dynamic calibration is done while driving the vehicle. A technician uses specialized equipment to adjust the camera’s parameters in real-time, based on specific traffic and road conditions. This method allows the camera to be calibrated under real-world driving conditions. However, it requires a high level of expertise and may take longer than static calibration. At VitroPlus, our technicians have the necessary expertise to carry out this operation precisely.
Static calibration
Static calibration is performed when the vehicle is stationary. The technician places targets or panels at a specific distance from the vehicle to calibrate the camera based on these reference points. Although this method is generally quicker, it depends on controlled conditions to be effective.
The choice between dynamic or static calibration depends on the vehicle model, the manufacturer’s recommendations, and the available equipment. Some vehicles may require a combination of both methods. Our experts have also created a video explaining the key steps in camera calibration.
VitroPlus | Auto Guide – Calibration
Precise calibration, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, is essential to ensure the proper functioning of ADAS systems. By avoiding common errors, such as installing an incorrect windshield or damaged sensors, the performance of the systems and road safety are guaranteed. Entrust the calibration of your ADAS system to our experts to ensure a reliable and safe installation.