Abstract: A system and method for enhancing the contrast within an image. An enhanced image can be generated in a real-time or substantially real-time manner from an initial image. A low-contrast image is enhanced, including the visibility of text within the low-contrast image. A logarithm transform method is used to enhance the overall contrast and visibility within the image. A power transform method is used to enhance the visibility and contrast of written text, symbols and other forms of signs within the enhanced image.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems for determining the position and the type of an occupant in a vehicle. More specifically, the present invention provides an occupant position and type classification system including an occupant detection module, a processor in communication with the occupant detection module, and memory accessible by the processor and storing program instructions executable by the processor to perform the steps of categorizing the occupant into one of a plurality of static categories, each of the static categories including at least one class indicative of the occupant's type or position in the vehicle, and classifying the occupant into one of the classes.

Abstract: An automotive occupant position restraint apparatus senses a position of an occupant of a motor vehicle. An optical energy source emits optical energy that is substantially limited to a first range of wavelengths that corresponds to an atmospheric absorption peak. An optical energy receiver receives the optical energy emitted by the optical energy source after the optical energy has been reflected within a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. A range of wavelengths that the receiver is operable to receive is substantially limited to a second range of wavelengths that corresponds to the atmospheric absorption peak.