Diaphragm aperture control using transparent displays with nanotechnology

Abstract

A diaphragm apparatus for photographic devices is disclosed, which utilizes a transparent display with nano technology to adjust the transmittance of light. The apparatus includes a transparent display with a plurality of addressable pixels, an optical sensor to detect incoming light, and a processor to generate a control signal to adjust the transparency of the pixels. The processor may also receive a user input to adjust the aperture diameter manually. The apparatus provides a continuous range of aperture adjustments, allowing for precise control over the amount of light entering the lens. The transparent display's ability to be electrically controlled eliminates the problem of light reflection, resulting in improved image quality and increased precision.

Description

DescriptionTitle of Invention: Diaphragm Aperture Control Using Transparent Displays with NanotechnologyTechnical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to optical systems and imaging technologies. More specifically, it pertains to diaphragm apparatuses used in photographic devices such as cameras. The disclosure further relates to transparent display devices with adjustable transparency, which are particularly suitable for controlling light transmission in optical applications.Summary of Invention

[0002] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of the present disclosure. It is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. The proper scope of the present disclosure may be ascertained from the claims set forth below, given the detailed description and the drawings below.

[0003] In one general aspect, the present disclosure describes a diaphragm apparatus designed to overcome the limitations of traditional mechanical and non-mechanical diaphragms by incorporating transparent displays using nanotechnology.

[0004] In one aspect, the apparatus may incorporate a transparent display with a plurality of addressable pixels, each defined by intersecting transparent electrodes, arranged two-dimensionally in a predetermined pattern. An optical sensor may be configured to detect incoming light and generate an output signal indicative of the incoming light intensity. A processor may receive the output signal from the optical sensor, determine an aperture diameter based on the received output signal, and generate a control signal to adjust the transparency of a selected portion of the plurality of pixels in the transparent display using an addressing scheme.

[0005] In one embodiment, the optical sensor may detect incoming light and generate an output signal indicative of the light intensity. A processor may then determine the appropriate aperture diameter based on this output signal and generate acontrol signal to modify the transparency of selected pixels in the transparent display, thus forming a diaphragm aperture of the desired size.

[0006] In another aspect, the diaphragm apparatus may include a user input mechanism configured to receive a user input and generate an output signal corresponding to an input aperture shape and an input aperture diameter. The processor may then receive the output signal from the user input mechanism and adjust the transparency of a selected portion of the plurality of pixels in the transparent display based on the received output signal using an addressing scheme.

[0007] In at least one aspect, each of the plurality of addressable pixels includes a nano-scaled Thin Film Transistor (TFT) connected to it, enabling precise and fast control over the transparency of the pixels.Technical Problem

[0008] Traditional diaphragm apparatuses, whether mechanical or non-mechanical, have been plagued by several technical problems that limit their performance and versatility.

[0009] Mechanical Diaphragms, which rely on servomotor-driven blades to adjust the aperture size, suffer several drawbacks. Firstly, the movement of these blades generates noise, which can be detrimental in applications where silence is essential. Furthermore, the mechanical blades are prone to wear and tear, leading to inaccuracies in the aperture size or diameter. The production of these blades is not only expensive, but their thinness makes them susceptible to wear, causing them to lock and reduce the accuracy of the aperture size.

[0010] Additionally, the mechanical nature of these diaphragms limits their speed and responsiveness, making them unsuitable for applications that require rapid aperture adjustments.

[0011] On the other hand, non-mechanical diaphragms have their own limitations. One major drawback is that they can only provide discrete and predetermined apertures, limiting their flexibility and adaptability to changing conditions.

[0012] Moreover, the non-mechanical diaphragms are not manually adjustable, making it difficult to fine-tune the aperture size to specific requirements.Additionally, existing non-mechanical diaphragms that employ nano-particles or microfluidic designs can suffer from light reflection, resulting in inaccurate light transmission to the lens and compromising overall photography and performance.Solution to Problem

[0013] The present disclosure offers an innovative solution to the limitations of traditional mechanical and non-mechanical diaphragm apparatuses by integrating transparent displays enhanced with nanotechnology. This approach overcomes the identified technical problems through the following key advancements:

[0014] Traditional mechanical diaphragms rely on servomotor-driven blades to adjust aperture sizes, resulting in operational noise and susceptibility to wear and tear. The disclosed diaphragm apparatus replaces mechanical components with a transparent display controlled by electrical signals. An optical sensor may detect incoming light intensity and communicate with a processor, which may adjust the transparency of specific pixels on the display to modify the aperture size. This electrical modulation eliminates mechanical movement, thereby reducing noise and enhancing the durability and reliability of the apparatus.

[0015] The integration of nano-scaled Thin Film Transistors (TFTs) within each addressable pixel of the transparent display enables high-speed and precise control over aperture settings. These nano-scale components allow for swift responsiveness to changing light conditions, ensuring optimal exposure levels are maintained in real-time. This level of precision and speed is unattainable with conventional mechanical systems, making the apparatus suitable for applications demanding quick and accurate light adjustment.

[0016] Unlike existing non-mechanical diaphragms that offer only discrete and predetermined aperture settings, the disclosed apparatus provides a continuous range of aperture adjustments. The processor may dynamically control the transparency of the display's pixels based on real-time input from the optical sensor, allowing for seamless and precise modulation of light entering the lens. This flexibility ensures optimal image quality across varying lighting conditions and photographic requirements.

[0017] The apparatus incorporates user input mechanisms such as rotary encoders, sliders, or digital interfaces to overcome the lack of manual control in traditionalnon-mechanical systems. Users can manually input desired aperture shapes and sizes, which the processor then translates into corresponding transparency adjustments on the transparent display. This feature offers photographers greater creative control and the ability to fine-tuned exposure settings to meet specific artistic and technical needs.

[0018] The use of advanced materials like Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs) and Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) in the transparent display design significantly reduces issues related to light reflection and distortion prevalent in existing nonmechanical diaphragms utilizing nano-particles or microfluidic designs. These materials allow for precise and uniform control over light transmission, ensuring that the light passing through the aperture maintains its integrity and quality, thereby enhancing overall photographic performance.

[0019] Furthermore, by using a processor to control the display, the apparatus can rapidly and precisely adjust the aperture size based on ambient light conditions and user preferences, ensuring that the desired amount of light is transmitted to a lens. This results in improved image quality, increased precision, and enhanced performance.Brief Description of Drawings

[0020] The present invention is best understood by referencing the following description and the accompanying figures. These figures are given purely by way of indication and in no way restrict the scope of the application. Of these figures:

[0021] FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic diagram of a diaphragm aperture apparatus controlled using an optical sensor.

[0022] FIG. 1 B illustrates a schematic diagram of a diaphragm aperture apparatus controlled using a user input mechanism to form the aperture.

[0023] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate exemplary embodiments of two different shapes of apertures surrounded by opaque pixels that transmit light through the display.

[0024] FIG. 3 illustrates a circuit diagram of one pixel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates the changes in aperture diameter corresponding to changes in light intensity level, according to one embodiment herein.Description of Embodiments

[0026] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and are shown by way of illustration of embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced.

[0027] It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and logical, mechanical, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense. In addition, throughout the specification, the meanings "a," "an," and "the" include plural references. The meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on."

[0028] As used herein, the terms "camera" and "photographic device" may be used interchangeably to refer to a device capable of capturing photographic images and utilizing interchangeable lenses.

[0029] It is to be understood that any descriptions in this specification that utilize phrases such as 'an embodiment,' 'one embodiment,' or 'an example embodiment' are intended to indicate that the corresponding embodiment may, but not necessarily will, incorporate a particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, using such phrases does not imply referencing a specific embodiment. Additionally, it is well within the capabilities of one of ordinary skill in the art to adapt and apply any disclosed feature, structure, or characteristic to other embodiments, whether or not they are explicitly described herein.

[0030] The present disclosure relates to various embodiments of a diaphragm apparatus designed to adjust light transmittance to a photographic device dynamically. This apparatus comprises several key components working in tandem to adjust the diameter and shape of the diaphragm aperture. The specific input that controls the aperture may be an optical sensor 113 or a user input 119.

[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the primary components of the diaphragm apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure include an optical sensor 113, a processor 115, and a transparent display 117. In this embodiment, the diaphragm apparatus may adjust the aperture diameter automatically. According to this embodiment, the optical sensor 113 may detect incoming light and generate an output signal indicative of the incoming light intensity level.

[0032] Upon receiving this output signal, the processor 115 may receive the output signal from the optical sensor 113 and determine an appropriate aperture diameter based on the output signal. The aperture diameter may be calculated using the following equation:

[0033] n =

[0034] where n represents the focal ratio, f is the focal length, and d is the diameter of the aperture. According to this formula, the aperture diameter decreases as the light intensity increases, thereby maintaining optimal exposure levels.

[0035] Subsequently, the processor 115 may generate a control signal to adjust the transparency of a plurality of selected pixels in the transparent display 117. This adjustment is achieved through an addressing scheme, which precisely controls the pixels' transparency to form the desired aperture.

[0036] As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the apparatus demonstrates its capability to dynamically adapt the aperture size in response to different light intensities. In this exemplary embodiment, the optical sensor detected two different light intensities, 111a and 111b. Correspondingly, the transparent display 117 forms two different apertures, 117a and 117b, based on the detected light intensities. This demonstrates the apparatus's ability to provide real-time adjustments to the aperture, ensuring optimal light transmission under varying light conditions.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present disclosure a manual diaphragm apparatus aimed at enhancing user control over aperture settings, is introduced. In this embodiment, precise and customizable adjustments of aperture shape and size may be achieved. The disclosed manual apparatus, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, is designed to overcome limitations of manual control in traditional non-mechanical systems by allowing direct manipulation of aperture parameters, thereby offering fine-tuned control. Referring to FIG. 1B, the diaphragm apparatus may comprise three main components: a user input mechanism 119, a processor 115, and a transparent display 117, according to one embodiment. The user input mechanism 119 is designed to receive a user input, enabling manual adjustment of the aperture shape and diameter in a manner that overcomes the limitations of conventional systems.

[0038] In one embodiment, the user input mechanism 119 may be implemented as a rotary encoder integrated into the camera. Conventional diaphragm systems often rely on fixed mechanical adjustments, which can be restrictive and slow to operate. The rotary encoder overcomes these limitations by allowing the user to rotate a dial or knob to adjust the aperture diameter. The encoder generates an output signal corresponding to the selected aperture diameter, providing a more flexible and responsive means of control.

[0039] The user input mechanism 119 in another embodiment may include a slider or potentiometer. The aperture diameter, according to this embodiment, may be adjusted by moving the slider or rotating the knob, generating an output signal indicative of the desired aperture diameter, thus more control and accuracy over the aperture settings.

[0040] In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus may incorporate a digital input mechanism. This mechanism may involve a touchscreen or button interface allowing the user to input the selected aperture diameter, producing a corresponding output signal, offering a highly responsive and intuitive way to control the aperture.

[0041] To further enhance the versatility of the diaphragm apparatus, the user input mechanism 119 may feature a library of predetermined aperture shapes, allowing the user to select and further adjust the aperture shape. In one embodiment, the mechanism may enable users to input a desired aperture shape, providing enhanced control over the shape and size of the aperture, thereby offering photographers greater creative flexibility.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 1B, two exemplary aperture configurations, 117c and 117d are shown. In the first embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 1 B, a hexagonal diaphragm 117c is formed in response to user input. Whether implemented as a rotary encoder or digital interface, the user input generates a precise control signal indicative of the desired aperture shape and size. This signal is processed by the processor 115, which employs an addressing scheme to modulate the transparency of the specific pixels in the transparent display 117, thereby creating the hexagonal aperture. This provides a level of customization and control not available in traditional diaphragm systems.

[0043] In the second embodiment, a tetragonal diaphragm 117d is formed in response to an alternate user input. Like the first embodiment, the user input mechanism 119 generates a control signal processed by the processor 115. The processor 115 utilizes the control signal to adjust the transparency of a designated group of pixels within the transparent display 117, forming the tetragonal aperture. These configurations demonstrate the apparatus's capability to form various aperture shapes and sizes based on user-defined parameters, ensuring versatile and precise light control tailored to specific photographic applications.

[0044] In another embodiment, the user input mechanism 119 and the optical sensor 113 are integrated into the photographic device. This dual configuration allows the user to select the aperture mode manually or automatically. The optical sensor 113 detects incoming light and generates an output signal indicative of the light intensity, which is processed by the processor 115 to adjust the aperture size and shape automatically. Conversely, the user input mechanism 119 enables manual control, allowing the user to input desired aperture parameters. The processor 115 then processes these inputs to modulate the transparency of specific pixels in the transparent display 117, thus achieving the desired aperture configuration. This embodiment offers enhanced flexibility and precision in controlling the diaphragm aperture to meet various photographic requirements.

[0045] Conventional display technologies often face challenges in providing precise control over light transmission, particularly when forming complex aperture shapes for photographic applications. The present invention introduces a display 117 incorporating advanced materials and configurations to improve light modulation capabilities.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, two exemplary embodiments of display 117 are illustrated, wherein display 117 comprises various elements that cooperate to form the aperture 127. A fundamental element of display 117 is the material used, which can be categorized into two primary groups of transparent configurations.

[0047] In one embodiment, the transparent display 117 is a transparent liquid crystal display (LCD). One of the common issues with conventional LCDs is the scattering of light when no electric field is applied, leading to inconsistent opacity and transparency. When no electric field is applied, the liquid crystal molecules arerandomly oriented, causing light to scatter and producing opaque pixels 125b. By applying an electric field, the molecules in the LCD align, making a group of transparent pixels 125, thereby forming the aperture 127.

[0048] In another embodiment, the transparent display 117 may be a transparent organic light-emitting diode (OLED). Similar to the LCD, the OLED can adjust its transparency by modulating the electric field, allowing precise control over the light transmission through the pixels 125 to form the aperture 127.

[0049] A key challenge in display design is achieving precise pixel transparency and arrangement control. To overcome this, display 117 further comprises transparent electrodes 129 and pixels 125. The electrodes 129 are disposed in predetermined patterns, forming two-dimensional pixels 125 on the display 117.

[0050] Two exemplary embodiments of these predetermined patterns are illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. The electrodes 129 are made of a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), and are patterned using a photolithography process to create the desired pixel arrangement. This configuration allows for precise control of the pixels' transparency, enabling the dynamic formation of various aperture shapes and sizes based on the control signals received from the processor 115.

[0051] The effective activation and adjustment of pixel transparency presents another technical challenge. To address this, in one embodiment, the electrodes 129 are connected to at least two drivers: gate driver 121 and source driver 123. These drivers receive control signals from the processor 115 and, through an addressing scheme, activate and adjust the transparency of a group of pixels 125. The addressing scheme may be a row-column addressing scheme, active matrix addressing scheme, or passive matrix addressing scheme in an alternate embodiment.

[0052] The pixels 125 on the display 117 may become addressable via gate driver 121 and source driver 123, connected through transparent electrodes 129. This connection enables the activation and adjustment of the pixels' transparency, thereby allowing for precise control over the formation and size of the aperture 127.

[0053] A group of transparent pixels 125a and opaque pixels 125b may be formed in the two exemplary embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, thetransparent pixels 125a and opaque pixels 125b together form the aperture 127, creating a specific shape or pattern corresponding to the received signal from the processor 115. The combination of transparent pixels and opaque pixels enables precise control over the light transmission through the display 117, allowing for the creation of complex shapes and patterns.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 3, one embodiment of the circuit of a pixel 125 is illustrated. A key challenge in high-speed light modulation is rapidly switching pixels between transparent and opaque states. This invention overcomes this by incorporating a nano-scaled thin film transistor (TFT) 131 connected to a gate electrode and a data electrode, collectively referred to as transparent electrodes 129. Connecting the nano-scaled TFT 131 to these transparent electrodes 129 enables pixels to activate faster and switch between transparent and opaque states more efficiently. Utilizing nano-scaled TFT 131 allows for high-speed switching and the passage of light through pixels 125 and aperture 127 with minimal loss of intensity.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 4, a graph illustrating the relationship between the light intensity level and the aperture diameter is shown. One of the common issues with traditional aperture systems is the lack of dynamic adjustment in response to varying light conditions. One embodiment of the present invention addresses this, wherein the aperture diameter is adjusted in response to changes in the light intensity level, as detected by the optical sensor 113. The graph shows that the aperture diameter decreases as the light intensity level increases and vice versa. This relationship indicates precise control over the amount of light that passes through the aperture 127 and onto the image sensor.

[0056] The graph may be stored in processor 115 to adjust the aperture diameter based on the current light intensity level to ensure real-time responsiveness. This allows for precise control over the exposure of the image sensor and ensures that the captured image is of high quality.

[0057] In one embodiment, the graph may determine the optimal aperture diameter for a given light intensity level. For example, if the light intensity level is high, the graph may indicate that a smaller aperture diameter is required to prevent overexposure. Conversely, if the light intensity level is low, the graph may indicate that a larger aperture diameter is required to allow more light to pass through.

[0058] The subject matter disclosed herein is to be considered descriptive and illustrative only, and the appended claims are intended to cover and encompass not only the particular embodiments disclosed but also equivalent structures, methods, and uses. The scope of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described but rather is intended to be defined by the appended claims.Industrial Applicability

[0059] According to the embodiments herein, the present invention is applicable to camera and photographic devices.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 03 February 2025 (03.02.2025)

1. A diaphragm apparatus, comprising: a. a transparent display comprising: a plurality of addressable pixels arrayed two-dimensionally in a predetermined pattern; and a plurality of transparent electrodes disposed in the predetermined pattern to define the plurality of addressable pixels; b. an optical sensor configured to detect an incoming light and generate an output signal indicative of an incoming light intensity level; and c. a nano-scaled thin-film transistor (TFT) array, wherein each of the plurality of addressable pixels is electrically connected thereto; d. a processor, characterized by the processor being configured to: receive the output signal from the optical sensor; determine an aperture diameter dynamically based on: the received output signal of the optical sensor; and a received output signal from a user input mechanism; generate a control signal to adjust transparency of a selected portion of the plurality of pixels in the transparent display using an addressing scheme.

2. The diaphragm apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to form a diaphragm aperture in a selectable region of the transparent display corresponding to the determined aperture diameter.

3. The diaphragm apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to calculate the aperture diameter described bywherein n is the focal ratio, f is the focal length, and d is the diameter of the aperture.

4. The diaphragm apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the user input mechanism is configured to: a. receive a user input specifying an aperture shape and diameter; and b. generate an output signal corresponding to the user input.

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