Aiming for high-performance, high-quality automotive camera modules with Kyocera's custom engineering capabilities

As a development engineer, I am in charge of making settings and adjustments inside the camera to make the video output more visible. The automotive camera is the eyes of the cars, and our devices contribute significantly to improving safety. It is important to show images with good visibility. To this end, we have been working with car manufacturers to evaluate and optimize the final camera image.

However, due in part to the global shortage of semiconductors since last year, the production volume of existing models could not meet customer requirements. As a result, alternative models had to be developed in 1/3 the normal development lead time. It was a big challenge for us to develop a new product in a short time without sacrificing quality because we had to optimize the device image with new parts we were using for the first time. We solved this problem using our reliability testing experience and image know-how, but the biggest challenge was when the joint image evaluation by the two companies could no longer be conducted due to COVID-19. Therefore, we set up a new evaluation cycle in which we prepared multiple image patterns, had car manufacturers check them at an early stage, and received feedback on the video evaluation to improve the image. In addition to the existing technology application, as this evaluation cycle was repeatedly conducted from an early stage, I believe we were able to deliver products with quality that meet our customer’s requirements on time.

We believe that the rapid development of alternative models with new components was made possible by Kyocera's deep engineering knowledge and customization capabilities. We will continue to provide high-performance, high-quality automotive camera modules and develop products that excel in quality, cost, and delivery time, all of which will help realize a world without traffic accidents.