Camera Field of View Indication via Shared Optics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in determining the camera field of view, especially when taking selfies or being under video surveillance, as conventional cameras do not provide an effective way to indicate the field of view or notify individuals of surveillance.
Innovation Solution
A camera system incorporating a light sensor, imaging optics, and an extended light source that intermittently activates to project a patterned light through the imaging optics, allowing users to determine their position within the camera's field of view without needing to view the screen, and potentially alerting them to video surveillance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional camera uses a viewing screen on the opposite side of the imaging device, then the camera structure is simple, but the user cannot determine the field of view when taking selfies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source and light sensor to share the same imaging optics, creating an integrated system where the light source projects through the lens to indicate the field of view directly in the scene, eliminating the need for a separate viewing screen
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a light source as an intermediary element that projects visible light through the imaging optics to indicate the field of view boundaries, allowing users to see the camera's viewing area without requiring them to look at a screen
2Ease of operation
If the light sensor continuously senses incoming light, then the imaging quality is maintained, but the extended light source cannot activate to indicate field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the light sensor and light source alternate their operations - the light sensor takes images at regular intervals while the light source activates between these intervals to indicate the field of view, allowing both functions to coexist without interference
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
Enables users to accurately position themselves within the camera's field of view and be aware of video surveillance without relying on the camera's screen, improving the accuracy of selfies and privacy awareness.
Implementation Method 1
sensing incoming light via the imaging optics and the light sensor
Implementation Method 2
a projection of the extended light source through the imaging optics matches a field of view of the light sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A camera field indicating method, system, and non-transitory computer readable medium for a camera including imaging optics, a light sensor, the imaging optics and the light sensor intermittently sensing incoming light, and an edge-lit illuminator including a light source and a leaky waveguide situated adjacent the imaging chip so as to share the imaging optics with the light sensor.