Before we go into details of how does a 360 Degree Dash Camera work in a car, we remind you of a scenario before these cameras arrived. Before 360 degree dash cameras, pulling out your car from a crowded parking lot was one of the scariest moments for car owners. Especially, when it was raining. You could notice low visibility, hazy side mirror views, and tightly parked cars on both sides. With the hope that nothing’s hiding in those hidden areas, you would slowly take out your car. We all fear the moment when we twist around to check the blind spots but can’t see anything. However, with the arrival of 360 Degree Dash Cameras, we are able to overcome this anxiety. With these dashcams, we can see everything around us comfortably. In this article, we will guide you about 360-degree cameras, their benefits and how they transform your driving experience.
What is a 360-degree Dash Camera System?
A 360-degree security camera uses two or more cameras. These cameras are placed at different places in your car for a clear view of everything around your vehicle. Usually, this camera system consists of one front, one rear, and sometimes side cameras for full coverage. These cameras work together to give a complete view of your car’s surroundings. The footages from each camera combine into one bird’s eye view that is visible on your car screen. Isn’t it amazing?
A 360 degree camera is very different from the traditional rearview or dash cams. Simple Dashcams only display what is directly at the back or front of your car. Those cameras are helpful for backups and recording your drive. However, they do not give a full view of your surroundings.
With its multiple wide-angle lenses, a 360-degree camera captures a full panoramic view. Different brands of 360 degree dash cameras use different designs, however, there are two common designs.
Types of 360 Degree Dash Cameras
Two Lenses 360 Degree Dash Cameras
This design uses two ultra-wide fish eye lenses. Each of the lens is capable of recording up to a 200-degree view of the field. Together, both lenses manage to give a 360-degree field of view. This design is very common and affordable. These types of 360 degree dash cams come with high-resolution cameras to give you clean and clear images.
Multiple Lenses 360 Degree Dash Cameras
This type of 360 degree camera system is complex and pricey. It uses more than two lenses to give a complete 360 degree field of view. These lenses shoot videos or images from different angles leaving a single spot. All the cameras capture high-quality footage, however, they need extensive CPU for stitching of images.
How Does a 360 Degree Dash Camera Work in a Car?
The process starts with the simultaneous recording of scenes from different lenses/cameras. Once the images are captured by these cams, they are sent to the central processing unit (CPU). The CPU processes and integrates them into a single panoramic view.
When scenes are captured by the lenses, they are stitched and stabilized. Some cameras process this themselves, however, some need separate post-processing on a connected device.
Stitching is the process of lining up the pictures from different lenses to a spherical image. The blending of images is very seamless. All these cameras record in such a way that when images overlap, they give a perfect stitch. Apart from stitching, footages are also stabilized. This stitched image is then displayed in real-time on the car’s dashboard or infotainment screen. It provides drivers with an expansive, detailed view of their surroundings. Calibration and synchronization of the camera feed ensure that the composite image remains accurate and reliable across various driving conditions.
Benefits of using 360-Degree Dash Camera in Car
From the safety and security of the vehicle to your convenience while driving, 360 Degree Cameras have various benefits.
Advanced Safety
It gives you a full view of your surroundings, which reduces blind spots and improves the visibility of the road. It can be useful in preventing accidents or hitting a parked car in the parking.
Accident Documentation
Many of the 360 degree dash cameras come with advanced features. They can automatically record an incident from all angles. This footage can be used as evidence for legal procedures or claiming your insurance. At the same time, it protects you from false claims as well.
Theft Deterrence
Visible dash cameras deter thieves and vandals from stealing the car. Knowing that they are being recorded minimizes the chances of criminal activity near your car.
Parking Surveillance
When your vehicle is parked, your 360 degree dash camera is there to monitor. There are 360 security dash cameras that record any suspicious activity or incidents such as hit and runs. It protects your car even when you are not present.
Reduced Blind Spots
The coverage by 360 degree dash camera covers all the blind spots to give you a clear view. Especially the areas which are hard to see with standard mirrors. Having the best 360 degree dash camera for you car improve visibility safety during driving and parking.
Integration with Other Safety Features
With the advancement of the technology, 360 degree cameras are also transforming. Nowadays, these cameras use advanced AI systems to integrate safety features. Features such as lane departure warnings, collision detection, and parking assistance are integrated with these camera systems.
Final Words
In the past few years, advancements in automotive technology have improved the driving experience for drivers. We are now free from guessing what’s in the blind spot. At least, we can stop worrying about hitting unseen objects while taking out the parked car.
360-degree dash cameras are already an essential tool for modern drivers. These cameras have saved many lives and limited the number of thefts happening in parking lots. Many of the car drivers now confidently park their vehicles in busy parking areas. It is because they have installed 360 degree dash cameras in their cars. They not only make driving and parking easier. They also provide peace of mind by offering an extra layer of security.
