Bezel Camera Light Sources for Uniform Illumination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Built-in computer cameras struggle with image quality in poor ambient light conditions, requiring external light sources that add cost and complexity for users to set up and control.

Innovation Solution

Integrating multiple light sources into the computer's bezel around the display panel to provide ring light illumination, with a controller that automatically adjusts based on camera activity and ambient light conditions, eliminating the need for external light sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If external light sources are used to improve image quality in poor ambient light, then image quality is improved, but device complexity and setup complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidsetup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the camera and light sources into a single integrated device (the camera body), eliminating the need for separate external light sources. The light sources are mounted on the camera housing and can be positioned to illuminate the scene being captured, providing integrated illumination functionality without requiring additional external equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The camera system provides its own illumination through integrated light sources, making it self-sufficient in poor lighting conditions. The camera can activate its own light sources automatically when needed, eliminating the need for users to set up or control external lighting equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Illumination intensity

If external light sources are purchased to improve image quality, then image quality is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating light sources directly into the camera body, the patent eliminates the need to purchase separate external lighting equipment. Users obtain both camera and lighting functionality in a single device, reducing overall cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The camera device performs multiple functions - both image capture and illumination - through its integrated light sources. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices, thereby reducing total cost for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Illumination intensity

If manual control of external light sources is required, then lighting can be adjusted, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight controlVSAvoidmanual control requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The camera system automatically manages its integrated light sources based on detected lighting conditions. The camera can autonomously determine when illumination is needed and activate the light sources without requiring manual user intervention, simplifying operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The camera system likely uses feedback from light sensors or image analysis to automatically control the integrated light sources. The system monitors ambient lighting conditions and adjusts illumination accordingly, eliminating the need for manual control while maintaining optimal lighting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enhances image quality by providing uniform illumination and automating light control, reducing user costs and setup complexity while maintaining consistent image capture quality.

Implementation Method 1

activate a plurality of different light sources integrated into a bezel of the computer, the plurality of different light sources to provide ring light illumination

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS11589011B1Bezels with cameras and light sources
Publication Date: 2023.02.21 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US11589011B1 patent drawing
  • US11589011B1 patent drawing
  • US11589011B1 patent drawing

AI summary

In some examples, a computer includes a display panel, a bezel around the display panel, a camera, and a plurality of separate light sources integrated into the bezel at respective different locations.