Method and apparatus for self-diagnostics of a vision system

A method of self-diagnostics of an apparatus for determining a location of an object in an area of interest within a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of:

• obtaining an image of the area of interest using an imaging device that is fixed relative to the vehicle;
• locating at least three identifying marks at predetermined positions relative to the imaging device and in the area of interest within the vehicle;
• storing in a memory the predetermined positions of the at least three identifying marks;
• determining whether the imaging device is calibrated properly by analyzing the obtained images to determine whether positions of the at least three identifying marks in the obtained images correspond to the predetermined positions stored in the memory;
• and
• determining a location of the object in the area of interest when the imaging device is calibrated properly.

An apparatus for determining a location of an object in an area of interest, the apparatus comprising:

• an imaging device for obtaining an image of the area of interest;
• a controller for analyzing a feature of the obtained image to determine whether a view of the area of interest from the imaging device is obstructed;
• and
• an indicator that is actuatable for indicating that the view is obstructed, the controller controlling actuation of the indicator,
• the controller analyzing the obtained image to determine the location of the object when the view is unobstructed.

A method of self-diagnostics of an apparatus for determining a location of an object in an area of interest, the method comprising the steps of:

• obtaining an image of the area of interest with an imaging device;
• analyzing a feature of the obtained image to determine whether a view of the area of interest from the imaging device is obstructed;
• providing an indication when the view is obstructed;
• and
• analyzing the obtained image to determine the location of the object when the view is unobstructed.