How to view the digital side mirrors?

Recently, I have been going out for a drive with Yan Yan on weekends. In this regard, we have seen that the new generation of drivers need some time to master the side mirrors (in fact, side mirrors play a big role in changing lanes and parking).

Video 1: Reverse and normal effects of DSM

Video 2: The use effects of DSM in the evening

In the relatively popular pure electric car, the modern Ioniq 5, an optional Digital Side-view Mirror (DSM) system is now available. This system looks very likely to become a standardized configuration in the future.

Figure 1: Modern digital side-view mirror DSM

When I was at the Shanghai Auto Show, I took a look at this feature, but since it was not turned on, I didn’t have a strong impression of it.

Figure 2: I specifically went to see this car at the Shanghai Auto Show, but the screen was not turned on

From a revenue perspective, there are several advantages:1) I think the greatest advantage of this is that it is different from the 360 concept of the central display. When viewed from the 360 perspective, the overall state is spliced which can be understood as WYSIWYG. As shown in the figure below in image processing, after linkage with the dual display, it has an independent effect on the instrument cluster and navigation. This is more in line with our expectations in practice.

Figure 3, Four screens in the cabin (two OLEDs on the left and right)

2) The biggest advantage of digitizing the rearview mirror is that the visual angle behind is larger, as shown below. The overall range towards the rear is larger. It can integrate rear vehicle reminders and blind spots. Since it is configured in the car, it appears to be easier to view on either side.

Figure 4, The rear view angle of the digital camera

3) As shown in the effect of video 1, the camera is less affected by water. In rainy weather, the original situation where the rearview mirror and side glass misted can be viewed better with this new type of camera, which provides better redundancy. There are special states for pouring water and car washing in the video below.

Figure 5, Compared with the effect on rainy days, this camera is more worth looking forward to

Figure 6, This is the effect of car washing

4) As shown in the effect of video 2, the overall effect at night is less affected by the light.

Figure 7, DSM video under the influence of rear light at night

5) When this DSM is folded up, it takes up less space, and in terms of air resistance, it also has a certain impact on the dynamic characteristics of the car.

Figure 8, DSM after folding

Summary: I think the replacement of visual sensors in intelligent cars has the most direct effect. Such digital perception is actually very effective in practical use. Objectively speaking, there are more and more screens in the cabin, and the information in reality is increasing.

This article is a translation by ChatGPT of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.