Weather information detecting system

Abstract

A weather information sensing system according to one embodiment of the disclosed invention may include: a first adsorption member configured to allow at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere to be adsorbed on a surface; a first heating member connected to the first adsorption member and configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption member; and a camera module configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member is provided to acquire a first image representing the surface state of the first adsorption member.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a weather information sensing system capable of determining local weather conditions. Background Technology

[0002] The latest technologies for analyzing local weather conditions are continuously advancing. Recently, high-resolution satellites have become capable of observing weather conditions with high accuracy, enabling the identification and monitoring of detailed weather patterns over large areas.

[0003] In addition, radar technology can accurately measure precipitation, wind speed, and direction, and drones can be used to measure atmospheric conditions, temperature, and humidity in hard-to-reach areas and analyze this data in real time.

[0004] In addition, by utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) technology, a sensor network can be established and weather conditions can be collected in real time. The problem to be solved

[0005] The present invention is intended to provide a weather information sensing system and a control method for the weather information sensing system, which can provide a user with an image serving as a reference for determining the weather conditions of a location where an image acquisition device is provided.

[0006] In addition, the present invention is intended to provide a weather information sensing system capable of accurately determining local weather conditions through a device of a simple structure, and a method for controlling the weather information sensing system.

[0007] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a weather information sensing system and a control method for the weather information sensing system, which can predict locally changing weather conditions on roads with severe weather changes, such as mountainous areas and rivers, and thereby provide weather information regarding vulnerable sections quickly and accurately to road traffic personnel.

[0008] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a weather information sensing system and a control method for the weather information sensing system that can detect or predict the occurrence of black ice, which is difficult to identify with the naked eye compared to snow. means of solving the problem

[0009] A weather information sensing system according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include: a first adsorption member configured to adsorb at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface; a first heating member connected to the first adsorption member and configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption member; and a camera module configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member is provided to acquire a first image representing the surface state of the first adsorption member.

[0010] In addition, the camera of the camera module may be configured to focus on the surface of the first adsorption member to acquire the first image.

[0011] Additionally, the camera module may further include a second adsorption member configured to adsorb at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface, and the camera module may be provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the second adsorption member is provided so as to acquire a second image representing the surface condition of the second adsorption member.

[0012] In addition, the camera module may be provided with a camera configured to acquire the first image and the second image.

[0013] Additionally, the camera module comprises: a first camera configured to acquire the first image; and a second camera configured to acquire the second image, wherein the first camera is configured to focus on the surface of the first adsorption member to acquire the first image, and the second camera is configured to focus on the surface of the second adsorption member to acquire the second image.

[0014] Additionally, the first heating element may be configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption element so that the snow adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption element is liquefied when the substance adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption element is snow; and may be configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption element so that the rainwater adsorbed on the first adsorption element does not freeze when the ambient temperature is below zero and the substance adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption element is rainwater.

[0015] Additionally, it may further include a second heating member connected to the second adsorption member and configured to transfer heat to the second adsorption member; and a processor that controls the first heating member and at least one of the second heating member to generate heat so that the generated heat is transferred to at least one transparent member among the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member.

[0016] Additionally, the processor determines whether to transfer heat to the second adsorption member based on the acquired second images; and if it decides to transfer heat to the second adsorption member, it can control the second heating member so that the second heating member generates heat to transfer heat to the second adsorption member.

[0017] Additionally, the processor may be configured to decide to transfer heat to the second adsorption member if there is no change for a period of time longer than a preset first reference time in the second images obtained when snow is adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member or rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member is frozen.

[0018] Additionally, the processor can control the second heating member to stop the heating of the second heating member so that heat is not transferred to the second adsorption member after a preset second reference time has elapsed following the transfer of heat to the second adsorption member.

[0019] Additionally, the processor determines, based on the second image, whether ice formed by freezing snow or rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member has been removed after heat has been transferred to the second adsorption member; and if it is determined that the snow or frozen ice adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member has been removed, the processor can control the second heating member to stop the heating of the second heating member so that heat is not transferred to the second adsorption member.

[0020] Additionally, the system may further include a processor configured to determine the weather conditions of the area where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located, based on the first image and the second image acquired by the camera module.

[0021] Additionally, the processor may be configured to: determine the state of the first adsorption member based on the first image to be one of a liquid attachment state, a snow attachment state, a freezing state, and a state without material attachment; determine the state of the second adsorption member based on the second image to be one of a liquid attachment state, a snow attachment state, a freezing state, and a state without material attachment; and determine the weather conditions of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located based on the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member.

[0022] Additionally, the processor may be configured to: determine the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as freezing rain if, as time passes, the state of the second adsorption member changes from a liquid attachment state to a freezing state and the state of the first adsorption member is maintained in a liquid attachment state; determine the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as snowfall if, as time passes, the state of the first adsorption member changes from a snow attachment state to a liquid attachment state and the state of the second adsorption member is maintained in a snow attachment state; determine the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as rainfall if, as time passes, the state of the second adsorption member changes from a snow attachment state to a liquid attachment state and the state of the second adsorption member is maintained in a liquid attachment state; and determine the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as snowfall if, as time passes, the state of the second adsorption member changes from a snow attachment state to a liquid attachment state and the state of the first adsorption member changes from a snow attachment state to a liquid attachment state at a faster rate than the change in the state of the second adsorption member.

[0023] Additionally, the processor may be configured to determine whether the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member are maintained or changed based on the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member determined after a preset third reference time has elapsed.

[0024] In addition, the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member may be configured such that their surfaces face the sky, tilted by a reference angle relative to a direction perpendicular to the surface, so that at least one of the snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere is adsorbed onto the surface.

[0025] Additionally, the first adsorption member is a first transparent member configured to allow light to pass through, and the second adsorption member is a second transparent member configured to allow light to pass through, and the camera module may be configured to face the opposite side surface of the surface of the first adsorption member where at least one of snow and rainwater can be adsorbed; and to face the opposite side surface of the surface of the second adsorption member where at least one of snow and rainwater can be adsorbed.

[0026] Additionally, the camera module may be positioned in the direction of the surface of a first adsorption member or the surface of a second adsorption member where at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater can be adsorbed; and may be configured to face the surface of the first adsorption member or the surface of the second adsorption member where at least one of the snow and rainwater can be adsorbed.

[0027] A control method for a weather information sensing system according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include: a step of adsorbing at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface by a first adsorption member; a step of adsorbing at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface by a second adsorption member; a step of transferring heat to the first adsorption member by a first heating member connected to the first adsorption member; a step of acquiring a first image representing the surface state of the first adsorption member by a camera module provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member is provided; and a step of acquiring a second image representing the surface state of the second adsorption member by a camera module provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the second adsorption member is provided.

[0028] A computer program according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may be stored on a computer-readable non-transient recording medium to execute a control method of the weather information sensing system. Effects of the invention

[0029] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, an image serving as a reference for determining the weather conditions of a place where an image acquisition device is provided can be provided to a user.

[0030] In addition, the present invention can accurately determine local weather conditions through a device with a simple structure.

[0031] In addition, the present invention can predict locally changing weather conditions on roads with severe weather changes, such as mountainous areas and rivers, thereby enabling the rapid and accurate provision of weather information regarding vulnerable sections to road traffic personnel.

[0032] In addition, the present invention can detect or predict the occurrence of black ice, which is difficult to identify with the naked eye compared to snow. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0033] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a single image according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a single camera according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a plurality of cameras according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a device in which a weather information sensing system is implemented by providing a plurality of heating members according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a single image according to another embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a single camera according to another embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a plurality of cameras according to another embodiment. FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a device in which a weather information sensing system is implemented by providing a plurality of heating members according to another embodiment. FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a weather information detection system according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a first image and a second image obtained according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a method for determining the weather condition according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating that, according to one embodiment, an adsorption member is tilted at a specific angle relative to the ground. FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a control method for a weather information sensing system according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0034] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. This specification does not describe all elements of the embodiments, and general content in the art to which the disclosed invention pertains or content that overlaps between embodiments is omitted.

[0035] Furthermore, when it is stated that a part "includes" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0036] As used in this specification, 'module' and 'part' refer to units that process at least one function or operation, and may refer to, for example, software, FPGA, or hardware components. The functions provided by the 'module' and 'part' may be performed separately by multiple components or integrated with other additional components. The 'module' and 'part' of this specification are not necessarily limited to software or hardware, and may be configured to reside in an addressable storage medium or configured to run one or more processors (140). Depending on the embodiments, multiple 'modules' and 'parts' may be implemented as a single component, or a single 'module' and 'part' may include multiple components.

[0037] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to distinguish one component from another, and the components are not limited by the aforementioned terms.

[0038] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless there is an obvious exception in the context.

[0039] In each step, identification codes are used for convenience of explanation and do not describe the order of the steps; the steps may be performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly indicated in the context.

[0040] The operating principle and embodiments of the disclosed invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a single image according to one embodiment.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, the weather information detection system (100) may include an image acquisition device. The image acquisition device may include a first adsorption member (111), a first heating member (121), and a camera module (130).

[0043] The heating element of the image acquisition device may be a first heating element (121) configured to transfer heat to a transparent element. However, the heating element of the weather information sensing system (100) does not necessarily have to be provided as a single heating element in the manner of providing the first heating element (121), and it is also possible to provide two or more heating elements by providing the first heating element (121) and the second heating element (122).

[0044] The heating element may be composed of a heating material. For example, the heating material may be one of the materials that generate heat in the form of planar heating, heating film, heating wire, heater, heat-wind, etc., but the material constituting the heating element is not limited to these.

[0045] The camera module (130) may include a first camera (131) and a second camera (132). However, the camera module (130) of the weather information detection system (100) does not necessarily include two cameras, and may be provided with a single camera that simultaneously captures the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112).

[0046] The camera module (130) may acquire image information captured at any point in time, but may also acquire video information consisting of multiple frames through continuous shooting.

[0048] At least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere may be adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member (111). The first adsorption member (111) may be a first transparent member configured to allow light to pass through. In this case, the material of the first transparent member may be glass or transparent plastic, but is not limited thereto.

[0049] When the first adsorption member (111) is a first transparent member configured to allow light to pass through, the camera module (130) may be positioned in the direction of the opposite surface of the surface of the first adsorption member (111) where at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. At this time, the lens of the camera of the camera module (130) may be directed toward the opposite surface of the surface of the first adsorption member (111) where at least one of the snow and rainwater can be adsorbed.

[0050] The first heating element (121) may be connected to the first adsorption element (111) and configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption element (111).

[0051] The first heating element (121) may be made of a transparent material, but is not limited thereto. The first heating element (121) may be provided on one side surface or inside the first adsorption element (111), but it does not matter how it is connected to the first adsorption element (111) as long as the first heating element (121) can transfer heat to the first adsorption element (111).

[0052] The first heating element (121) may be a heating wire connected to the first adsorption element (111), but is not limited thereto. The first heating element (121) may be a heat source that emits heat, but is not limited thereto. That is, the first heating element (121) may be driven in a manner that receives heat from a completely different connected heat source and transfers the heat to the connected first adsorption element (111).

[0053] The camera module (130) may be provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member (111) is provided so as to acquire a first image (201) showing the surface condition of the first adsorption member (111).

[0054] The camera of the camera module (130) can be configured to focus on the surface of the first adsorption member (111) to acquire a first image (201). That is, since the camera of the camera module (130) is focused on the first adsorption member (111) rather than on the external scenery of the first adsorption member (111), when a substance is adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member (111), the image or video of the first adsorption member (111) on which the substance is adsorbed can be clearly captured.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the weather condition may be analyzed by photographing the state of a first adsorption member (111) to which a first heating member (121) is connected. However, to analyze the weather condition more accurately, information on the state of another transparent member not connected to a heating member may also be obtained, and the weather condition may be analyzed by comparing the obtained information.

[0056] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a single camera according to one embodiment.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 2, the image acquisition device may further include a second adsorption member (112).

[0058] At least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere may be adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112). The second adsorption member (112) may be a second transparent member configured to allow light to pass through. In this case, the material of the second transparent member may be glass or transparent plastic, but is not limited thereto.

[0059] If the second adsorption member (112) is a second transparent member configured to allow light to pass through, the camera module (130) may be positioned on the opposite side of the surface of the second adsorption member (112) where at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. At this time, the lens of the camera of the camera module (130) may be directed toward the opposite side of the surface of the second adsorption member (112) where at least one of the snow and rainwater can be adsorbed.

[0060] Additionally, the first transparent member and the second transparent member may be composed of a material having a specific visible light transmittance to allow light to pass through. For example, the visible light transmittance of the first transparent member and the second transparent member may be 70%. However, the visible light transmittance of the first transparent member and the second transparent member is not limited to this value, and as long as light passes through so that a camera can acquire an image of the material adsorbed on each transparent member, the visible light transmittance of each transparent member can be any value.

[0061] In an embodiment where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are transparent members, the camera module (130) may be located in a direction opposite to the direction in which at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater is adsorbed relative to the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112).

[0062] Meanwhile, the material of the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) is not necessarily limited to a transparent material that allows light to pass through.

[0063] In an embodiment where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are not transparent members, the camera module (130) may be positioned in a direction in which at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater is adsorbed relative to the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112). At this time, the camera module (130) may be positioned in a direction toward the surface of the first adsorption member (111) or the surface of the second adsorption member (112) where at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. At this time, the lens of the camera of the camera module (130) may be directed toward the surface of the first adsorption member (111) or the surface of the second adsorption member (112) where at least one of the snow and rainwater can be adsorbed.

[0064] The camera module (130) may be provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the second adsorption member (112) is provided so as to acquire a second image (202) showing the surface condition of the second adsorption member (112).

[0065] The camera module (130) can transmit information of the acquired first image (201) and second image (202) to the processor (140).

[0066] Additionally, the camera module (130) can transmit information of the acquired first image (201) and second image (202) to a communication module. At this time, the communication module can transmit the information of the first image (201) and second image (202) to a terminal of a manager who analyzes the weather in the area where the image acquisition device is provided.

[0067] The camera module (130) may be provided with a camera configured to acquire a first image (201) and a second image (202). That is, the first image (201) and the second image (202) may all be included in the single image acquired by the camera, so that the first image (201) and the second image (202) can be acquired through a single camera.

[0068] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a plurality of cameras according to one embodiment.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 3, the camera module (130) may be provided with a plurality of cameras configured to acquire a first image (201) and a second image (202), respectively. At this time, the camera module (130) may include a first camera (131) configured to acquire the first image (201) and a second camera (132) configured to acquire the second image (202).

[0070] The first camera (131) may be configured to focus on the surface of the first adsorption member (111) to obtain a first image (201), and the second camera (132) may be configured to focus on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) to obtain a second image (202).

[0071] The heating element can change the temperature of the connected transparent element to be higher than the ambient temperature. In this case, the state of the material adsorbed on the surface of the transparent element may change from solid to liquid due to the temperature of the transparent element. Additionally, due to the temperature of the transparent element, the material adsorbed on the transparent element at the same temperature as the ambient temperature may not be adsorbed at all. That is, the surface state of the transparent element whose temperature has been raised by the heating element may exhibit a state completely different from the surface state of the transparent element at the ambient temperature, or the state may change to become different. The weather information sensing system (100) can identify local weather conditions based on these differences or provide image information to the user for analysis.

[0072] The first heating element (121) may be configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption element (111) so that if what is adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption element (111) is snow, the snow adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption element (111) is liquefied. That is, even if snow is adsorbed on the first adsorption element (111) in snowy weather conditions, the snow adsorbed by the first heating element (121) can melt and become water.

[0073] The first heating element (121) can be configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption element (111) so that the rainwater adsorbed on the first adsorption element (111) does not freeze when the ambient temperature is below zero and the rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption element (111) is rainwater. That is, even if rainwater is adsorbed on the first adsorption element (111) under sub-zero weather conditions, the rainwater adsorbed by the first heating element (121) can be maintained without freezing.

[0074] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented by providing a plurality of heating members according to one embodiment; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a single image according to another embodiment; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a single camera according to another embodiment; FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented through the acquisition of a pair of images by a plurality of cameras according to another embodiment; FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a device in which a weather information detection system is implemented by providing a plurality of heating members according to another embodiment; and FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a weather information detection system according to one embodiment.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 9, the weather information detection system (100) may include a camera module (130), a processor (140), a first heating element (121), and a second heating element (122).

[0076] The second heating element (122) may be configured to be connected to the second adsorption element (112) to transfer heat to the second adsorption element (112). The second heating element (122) may be made of a transparent material, but is not limited thereto. The second heating element (122) may be provided on one side surface or inside the second adsorption element (112), but it does not matter how it is connected to the second adsorption element (112) as long as the second heating element (122) can transfer heat to the second adsorption element (112).

[0077] The second heating element (122) may be a heat source that emits heat such as a heating wire, but is not limited thereto. That is, the second heating element (122) may be driven in a manner that receives heat from a completely different connected heat source and transfers the heat to the connected second adsorption element (112).

[0078] Even if there is a corresponding heating element for each transparent element, it is desirable to operate only one heating element to transfer heat in order to obtain accurate information. Specifically, to obtain weather information, it may be desirable to obtain the first image (201) and the second image (202) while the first adsorption element (111) always receives heat when the weather information detection system is operating, and the second adsorption element (112) does not receive heat. That is, unlike the first heating element (121), the second heating element (122) may be operated only under specific conditions and may not be operated when obtaining the second image (202) for weather information analysis.

[0079] The processor (140) can control the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) so that at least one of the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122) generates heat, so that the generated heat is transferred to at least one of the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112).

[0080] The second image (202) in a state where the second heating element (122) is not heating can be the image to be analyzed. However, if snow is adsorbed or rainwater freezes on the surface of the second adsorption element (112) while the second heating element (122) is not heating, over time, most of the surface of the second adsorption element (112) becomes covered with ice formed from the freezing of snow or rainwater, and in this situation, a problem may arise in which additional substances adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption element (112) can no longer be detected. Therefore, in the case of the second adsorption element (112), it is necessary to periodically apply heat according to certain conditions to remove the substances adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption element (112).

[0081] That is, the situation in which the second heating member (122) generates heat may be a situation in which the second heating member (122) is controlled to generate heat in order to remove a substance adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112). Whether such a situation exists can be determined based on the state of the second image (202).

[0082] The processor (140) can determine whether to transfer heat to the second adsorption member (112) based on the acquired second images (202). If the processor (140) decides to transfer heat to the second adsorption member, it can control the second heating member (122) so that the second heating member generates heat to transfer heat to the second adsorption member (112).

[0083] Meanwhile, the situation in which there is no change in the second images (202) obtained after the surface of the second adsorption member (112) is covered with ice formed by freezing snow or rainwater may be a situation in which additionally adsorbed material on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) can no longer be detected and the material must be removed.

[0084] The processor (140) may decide to transfer heat to the second adsorption member (112) if there is no change for a period of time longer than a preset first reference time in which snow is adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member or rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) is frozen. The first reference time may be a time preset by an administrator who determines that it is appropriate to remove the substance adsorbed on the second adsorption member (112) based on the point in time when the second adsorption member (112) is covered with snow or frozen ice.

[0085] Meanwhile, the criteria for controlling the second heating member (122) so that the second heating member (122) generates heat are not limited to the aforementioned method.

[0086] After heat is transferred to the second adsorption member, if a preset second reference time has elapsed, the processor (140) can control the second heating member (122) to stop the heating of the second heating member (122) so that heat is not transferred to the second adsorption member (112). The second reference time may be a preset time determined by an administrator to be appropriate for removing the substance adsorbed on the second adsorption member (112) based on the operating time of the second heating member (122).

[0087] Meanwhile, the criteria for controlling the second heating member (122) to stop the heating of the second heating member (122) is not limited to the aforementioned method.

[0088] After heat is transferred to the second adsorption member, the processor (140) can determine whether ice formed by freezing snow or rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) has been removed based on the second image (202).

[0089] When the processor (140) determines that snow or frozen ice adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) has been removed, it can control the second heating member (122) to stop the heating of the second heating member (122) so that heat is not transferred to the second adsorption member (112).

[0090] Meanwhile, the heating element that is always in operation is not necessarily limited to being the first heating element (121) and the second heating element (122) being an auxiliary heating element.

[0091] If the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122) are controlled so that the first heating member (121) generates heat and the second heating member (122) does not generate heat, and if what is adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member (111) is snow, the first heating member (121) can transfer heat to the first adsorption member (111) so that the snow adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member (111) is liquefied.

[0092] If the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122) are controlled so that the first heating member (121) generates heat and the second heating member (122) does not generate heat, and the ambient temperature is below zero and what is adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member (111) is rainwater, the first heating member (121) can transfer heat to the first adsorption member (111) so that the rainwater adsorbed on the first adsorption member (111) does not freeze.

[0093] Among the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122), the second heating member (122) is controlled so that it generates heat and the first heating member (121) does not generate heat, and if what is adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) is snow, the second heating member (122) can transfer heat to the second adsorption member (112) so that the snow adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) is liquefied.

[0094] If the second heating member (122) among the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122) is controlled so that the second heating member (122) generates heat and the first heating member (121) does not generate heat, and the ambient temperature is below zero and what is adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) is rainwater, then the second heating member (122) can transfer heat to the second adsorption member (112) so that the rainwater adsorbed on the second adsorption member (112) does not freeze.

[0095] The processor (140) may control the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) so that only one of the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122) generates heat by arbitrarily selecting one of the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) and controlling the selected heat source to be driven. Alternatively, the processor (140) may control the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) so that only one of the first heating member (121) and the second heating member (122) heats, by selecting one of the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) and controlling the selected heat source to heat alternately while the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) are driven a preset number of times. However, as long as the processor (140) can control the heat source of the first heating member (121) and the heat source of the second heating member (122) according to a preset algorithm, it does not matter how one of the two heating members is selected to heat.

[0096] The processor (140) can determine the weather conditions of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located based on the first image (201) and the second image (202) acquired by the camera module (130).

[0097] If the processor (140) is provided in a manager server managed by an administrator who intends to analyze weather conditions, the communication module may also be provided in the manager server. In this case, the communication module can perform wired or wireless communication with the image acquisition device. In this case, the processor (140) can control the communication module that transmits and receives signals with the image acquisition device to control the image acquisition device or to receive information.

[0098] However, the processor (140) is not limited to being installed in the manager server and may be installed in any configuration of the weather information detection system (100). For example, the processor (140) may be installed in the image acquisition device, and the communication module may also be installed in the image acquisition device. In this case, the communication module can perform wired or wireless communication with the manager server. In this case, the processor (140) can control the communication module that transmits a signal to the manager server.

[0099] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, the first adsorption member (111) may be a first transparent member configured to allow light to pass through, and the second adsorption member (112) may be a second transparent member configured to allow light to pass through. At this time, the camera module (130) may face the opposite surface of the surface of the first adsorption member (111) to which at least one of snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. Additionally, the camera module (130) may face the opposite surface of the surface of the second adsorption member (112) to which at least one of snow and rainwater can be adsorbed.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8, the camera module (130) may be positioned in the direction of the surface of a first adsorption member (111) or the surface of a second adsorption member (112) where at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. At this time, the camera module (130) may face the surface of the first adsorption member (111) or the surface of the second adsorption member (112) where at least one of the snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. In this case, the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) do not necessarily have to be transparent members, and the transmittance of the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) can also have any value.

[0101] FIG. 10 is a first image and a second image obtained according to one embodiment, and FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a method for determining the weather condition according to one embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, the processor (140) can determine the state of the transparent members based on the received image to be one of a liquid-attached state, a snow-attached state, a frozen state, and a state without material attachment.

[0103] The liquid attachment state may be a state in which a liquid, such as water droplets or rainwater, is adsorbed onto the surface of the transparent member. The snow attachment state may be a state in which snow is adsorbed onto the surface of the transparent member. The freezing state may be a state in which frozen solid water is attached to the surface of the transparent member. The non-material attachment state may be a state in which no material is attached or adsorbed to the surface of the transparent member.

[0104] The manager can check the first image (201) and the second image (202) and directly determine the state of each image as one of the following: liquid attached state, snow attached state, freezing state, and no material attached state. Meanwhile, the weather information detection system (100) may determine the state of the image itself rather than the manager making the determination directly.

[0105] The processor (140) determining the state of the transparent member based on the image may analyze the image according to a preset algorithm and classify the image into one of the states of liquid attachment state, snow attachment state, freezing state, and non-attachment of material state.

[0106] Meanwhile, the processor (140) classifying the image into one of the states of liquid attachment, snow attachment, freezing, and non-material attachment may utilize an artificial intelligence model that has been pre-trained using a machine learning method. In this case, the weather information detection system (100) may include a memory and a machine learning module. The machine learning module may include a processor (140) capable of learning an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model pre-trained by the machine learning module may be stored in memory.

[0107] Machine learning refers to the use of models composed of multiple parameters and the optimization of these parameters using given data. Depending on the form of the learning problem, machine learning can include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Supervised learning involves learning the mapping between inputs and outputs and can be applied when input-output pairs are provided as data. Unsupervised learning is applied when there are only inputs and no outputs, and it can identify patterns such as regularities between inputs.

[0108] A machine learning module can generate an artificial intelligence model in various ways. For example, a machine learning module can learn features extracted from information or data input as input variables using a deep learning-based learning method. At this time, a CNN (Convolutional Neural Networks) structure consisting of multiple convolution layers can be utilized to learn how to extract features from information or data input as input variables, but the learning method of the machine learning module is not necessarily limited to using a CNN structure. For example, the learning method of the machine learning module (320) may be a method using a machine learning algorithm including an ANN (artificial neural network) or an RNN (recurrent neural network).

[0109] The machine learning module can learn an artificial intelligence model through a machine learning method by setting a training image, which is an image of a transparent member acquired by a camera in each weather condition, as an input variable and training image classification information, which is information about the weather condition when each training image was taken, as an output variable. The processor (140) can classify the state of the input image into one of a liquid attachment state, a snow attachment state, a freezing state, and a state without material attachment, based on the artificial intelligence model learned through repeated machine learning.

[0110] The processor (140) can determine the state of the first adsorption member (111) based on the first image (201) as one of the states of liquid attachment state, snow attachment state, freezing state, and non-attachment of material state.

[0111] The processor (140) can determine the state of the second adsorption member (112) based on the second image (202) as one of the following states: liquid attached state, snow attached state, freezing state, and no material attached state.

[0112] The manager can check the condition of the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) and directly determine the weather conditions of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located using the table shown in FIG. 11. Meanwhile, the weather information detection system (100) may determine the weather conditions on its own rather than the manager making the determination directly.

[0113] The processor (140) can determine the weather conditions of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located, based on the condition of the first adsorption member (111) and the condition of the second adsorption member (112).

[0114] In freezing rain conditions, liquid rain can fall to the ground depending on weather circumstances, even if the temperature is below freezing. Since the temperature is below freezing, the rainwater can freeze immediately upon contact with the ground. Such freezing rain conditions are ideal for the formation of black ice on roads and various terrains, so it is necessary to detect them in advance for people's safety.

[0115] Meanwhile, in situations where freezing rain falls, rainwater adsorbed on a transparent member that does not generate heat may remain in a liquid state and gradually freeze, whereas rainwater adsorbed on a transparent member that generates heat may maintain a liquid state, showing a difference.

[0116] As time passes, the state of the second adsorption member (112) changes from a liquid attachment state to a freezing state, and if the state of the first adsorption member (111) remains in a liquid attachment state, the processor (140) can determine the weather condition of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located as a freezing rain state.

[0117] When the weather is snowing and the temperature is below freezing, solid snow may fall to the ground depending on the weather conditions. At this time, since the temperature is below freezing, the snow that touches the ground can accumulate.

[0118] Meanwhile, in situations where snow falls below freezing, snow adsorbed onto a transparent member that does not generate heat can remain intact, whereas snow adsorbed onto a transparent member that generates heat may maintain a solid state before gradually melting and becoming liquid.

[0119] As time passes, if the state of the first adsorption member (111) changes from a snow-attached state to a liquid-attached state and the state of the second adsorption member (112) remains in a snow-attached state, the processor (140) can determine the weather condition of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located as a snowfall state.

[0120] In rainy conditions, if the temperature is above freezing, liquid rain can fall to the ground depending on the weather. At this time, since the temperature is above freezing, the rain that touches the ground can maintain its liquid state.

[0121] If the state of the first adsorption member (111) is maintained in a liquid attachment state and the state of the second adsorption member (112) is maintained in a liquid attachment state, the processor (140) can determine the weather condition of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located as a rainfall state.

[0122] Even if the temperature is above freezing, solid snow, rather than liquid, can fall to the ground depending on weather conditions. In this case, since the temperature is above freezing, the snow accumulated on the ground can melt.

[0123] As time passes, the state of the second adsorption member (112) changes from a snow-attached state to a liquid-attached state, and if the state of the first adsorption member (111) changes from a snow-attached state to a liquid-attached state at a faster rate than the change in the state of the second adsorption member (112), the processor (140) can determine the weather condition of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located as a snowfall state.

[0124] Meanwhile, whether the state of each transparent member has changed can be determined based on the state of two images acquired by being captured at two points in time separated by a preset third reference time interval.

[0125] After determining the state of the first adsorption member (111) and the state of the second adsorption member (112), the processor (140) can determine whether the state of the first adsorption member (111) and the state of the second adsorption member (112) are maintained or changed based on the state of the first adsorption member (111) and the state of the second adsorption member (112) determined at the time when a third reference time, which is a time preset by the manager, has elapsed.

[0126] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating that, according to one embodiment, an adsorption member is tilted at a specific angle relative to the ground.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12, the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) may each have their surfaces facing a direction tilted by a reference angle (θ) relative to a direction perpendicular to the ground surface. At this time, the reference angle (θ) may be the optimal angle derived through repeated experiments to facilitate the adsorption of ice formed by freezing snow or rainwater on each transparent member. For example, the reference angle (θ) may be 45 degrees. However, the reference angle (θ) is not limited to this, and it does not matter even if the reference angle (θ) is 90 degrees.

[0128] In response to the performance of the components described above, at least one component may be added or deleted. Additionally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the relative positions of the components may be changed in response to the performance or structure of the system.

[0129] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a control method for a weather information sensing system according to one embodiment. This is merely a preferred embodiment for achieving the purpose of the present invention, and it is understood that some components may be added or deleted as needed.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 13, the first camera (131) can focus on the surface of the first adsorption member (111), and the second camera (132) can focus on the surface of the second adsorption member (112) (1001).

[0131] The first heating element (121) is connected to the first adsorption element (111) and can transfer heat to the first adsorption element (111) (1002).

[0132] At least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere can be adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) (1003).

[0133] A camera module (130) equipped with a camera can acquire a first image (201) and a second image (202) (1004). The camera module (130) can transmit the acquired first image (201) and second image (202) to a processor (140).

[0134] The processor (140) can determine the weather conditions of the area where the first adsorption member (111) and the second adsorption member (112) are located based on the first image (201) and the second image (202).

[0135] The control method of the weather information detection system (100) according to the embodiments of the present invention described so far and the embodiments to be described in the future can be implemented in the form of a program that can be driven by a processor (140).

[0136] Here, the program may include program instructions, data files, and data structures, either individually or in combination. The program may be designed and manufactured using machine code or high-level language code. The program may be specially designed to implement the control method of the weather information sensing system (100) described above, or it may be implemented using various functions or definitions that are known and available to a person skilled in the art of computer software. The program for implementing the control method of the weather information sensing system (100) described above may be recorded on a recording medium readable by the processor (140). At this time, the recording medium may be a memory.

[0137] The memory can store a program that performs the aforementioned operation and the operation described below, and the memory can execute the stored program. When there are multiple processors (140) and memory, it is possible for them to be integrated into a single chip or to be provided in physically separate locations. The memory may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory, S-RAM) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data. Additionally, the memory may include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) for long-term storage of control programs and control data.

[0138] The processor (140) may include various logic circuits and arithmetic circuits, process data according to a program provided from memory, and generate control signals according to the processing result.

[0139] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively. Explanation of the symbols

[0140] 100: Weather Information Detection System 111: First adsorption member 112: Second adsorption member 121: First heating element 122: Second heating element 130: Camera module 131: First camera 132: Second Camera 140: Processor 201: First image 202: Second image

Claims

Claim 1 A first adsorption member configured to allow at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere to be adsorbed on its surface; a first heating member connected to the first adsorption member and configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption member; and a camera module configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member is provided to acquire a first image representing the surface state of the first adsorption member, wherein the camera of the camera module is configured to focus on the surface of the first adsorption member to acquire the first image and further includes a second adsorption member configured to allow at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere to be adsorbed on its surface, wherein the camera module is configured to face the direction in which the second adsorption member is provided to acquire a second image representing the surface state of the second adsorption member, and the first heating member is configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption member so that if what is adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member is snow, the snow adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member is liquefied; A weather information sensing system further comprising: a second heating member configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption member so as not to freeze the rainwater adsorbed on the first adsorption member when the temperature of the above atmosphere is below zero and what is adsorbed on the surface of the first adsorption member is rainwater; and connected to the second adsorption member and configured to transfer heat to the second adsorption member; and a processor that controls the first heating member and at least one of the second heating member to generate heat so that the generated heat is transferred to at least one transparent member among the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member, wherein the processor determines whether to transfer heat to the second adsorption member based on the acquired second images; and if it is determined to transfer heat to the second adsorption member, controls the second heating member to generate heat so that heat is transferred to the second adsorption member. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 delete Claim 4 In claim 1, the weather information sensing system, wherein the camera module is provided with one camera configured to acquire the first image and the second image. Claim 5 A weather information sensing system according to claim 1, wherein the camera module comprises: a first camera configured to acquire the first image; and a second camera configured to acquire the second image, wherein the first camera is configured to focus on the surface of the first adsorption member to acquire the first image, and the second camera is configured to focus on the surface of the second adsorption member to acquire the second image. Claim 6 delete Claim 7 delete Claim 8 delete Claim 9 A weather information sensing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to decide to transfer heat to the second adsorption member if the second images, which are obtained in a state where snow is adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member or rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member is frozen, show no change for a period of time longer than a preset first reference time. Claim 10 In claim 9, the processor is a weather information sensing system that controls the second heating member to stop the heating of the second heating member so as not to transfer heat to the second adsorption member after a preset second reference time has elapsed after heat has been transferred to the second adsorption member. Claim 11 In claim 9, the processor determines, based on the second image, whether ice formed by freezing snow or rainwater adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member is removed after heat is transferred to the second adsorption member; and if it is determined that the snow or frozen ice adsorbed on the surface of the second adsorption member is removed, the second heating member is controlled to stop the heating of the second heating member so as not to transfer heat to the second adsorption member, a weather information sensing system. Claim 12 A weather information sensing system comprising: a first adsorption member configured to adsorb at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface; a first heating member connected to the first adsorption member and configured to transfer heat to the first adsorption member; a camera module configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member is provided to acquire a first image representing the surface state of the first adsorption member; and a second adsorption member configured to adsorb at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface, wherein the camera module is configured to face the direction in which the second adsorption member is provided to acquire a second image representing the surface state of the second adsorption member, and further comprises a processor configured to determine the weather conditions of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located based on the first image and the second image acquired by the camera module. Claim 13 A weather information sensing system configured such that, in paragraph 12, the processor determines the state of the first adsorption member based on the first image to be one of a liquid-attached state, a snow-attached state, a freezing state, and a state without material attachment; determines the state of the second adsorption member based on the second image to be one of a liquid-attached state, a snow-attached state, a freezing state, and a state without material attachment; and determines the weather conditions of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located based on the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, the processor determines the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as freezing rain condition when, as time passes, the state of the second adsorption member changes from a liquid attachment state to a freezing state and the state of the first adsorption member is maintained in a liquid attachment state; when, as time passes, the state of the first adsorption member changes from a snow attachment state to a liquid attachment state and the state of the second adsorption member is maintained in a snow attachment state, the processor determines the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as snowfall state; and when the state of the first adsorption member is maintained in a liquid attachment state and the state of the second adsorption member is maintained in a liquid attachment state, the processor determines the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as rainfall state; A weather information sensing system configured to determine the weather condition of the region where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located as snow accumulation and liquid accumulation changes over time, and the first adsorption member changes from snow accumulation to liquid accumulation at a faster rate than the change in the state of the second adsorption member. Claim 15 A weather information sensing system according to claim 13, wherein the processor determines the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member, and then determines whether the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member are maintained or changed based on the state of the first adsorption member and the state of the second adsorption member determined at a point in time after a preset third reference time has elapsed. Claim 16 In claim 15, the weather information sensing system is configured such that the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member have surfaces facing a direction inclined by a reference angle with respect to a direction perpendicular to the surface. Claim 17 In claim 12, the first adsorption member is a first transparent member configured to transmit light, the second adsorption member is a second transparent member configured to transmit light, and the camera module is configured to face the opposite side surface of the surface of the first adsorption member to which at least one of snow and rainwater can be adsorbed; and to face the opposite side surface of the surface of the second adsorption member to which at least one of snow and rainwater can be adsorbed, a weather information sensing system. Claim 18 A weather information sensing system according to claim 12, wherein the camera module is positioned in the direction of the surface of a first adsorption member or the surface of a second adsorption member where at least one of the fallen snow and rainwater can be adsorbed; and configured to face the surface of the first adsorption member or the surface of the second adsorption member where at least one of the snow and rainwater can be adsorbed. Claim 19 A control method for a weather information sensing system comprising: a step of adsorbing at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface by a first adsorption member; a step of adsorbing at least one of snow and rainwater falling from the atmosphere onto a surface by a second adsorption member; a step of transferring heat to the first adsorption member by a first heating member connected to the first adsorption member; a step of acquiring a first image representing the surface state of the first adsorption member by a camera module provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the first adsorption member is provided; a step of acquiring a second image representing the surface state of the second adsorption member by a camera module provided with a camera configured to face the direction in which the second adsorption member is provided; and a step of determining the weather condition of the area where the first adsorption member and the second adsorption member are located by a processor based on the first image and the second image acquired by the camera module. Claim 20 A computer program stored on a computer-readable, non-transient recording medium to execute the control method of the weather information sensing system of paragraph 19.

Images