Contactless Temperature Sensor Using Camera Focus Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermometers, both contact and non-contact types, face challenges in accurately measuring body temperature, especially in dynamic or distant scenarios, and integrating temperature measurement functionality into electronic devices is hindered by structural limitations and measurement errors due to varying distances between sensors and objects.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device equipped with a camera module and temperature sensor that determines object focus and temperature by maintaining a constant distance, using the camera's focal length to ensure accurate body temperature measurement without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a telescopic structure is used to maintain constant distance between sensor and object, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases and structural limitations prevent application in electronic devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the camera module as an intermediary to determine focus matching, which indirectly indicates the distance between the temperature sensor and the object. By using the camera's autofocus mechanism as a mediator, the system avoids the need for complex telescopic structures while still maintaining constant measurement distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical telescopic structure with an optical-based focus detection system. Instead of mechanically adjusting the sensor distance, the system uses the camera's optical focusing capability to determine when the object is at the correct measurement distance, thereby eliminating mechanical complexity.
2Measurement precision
If proximity sensors are added to detect object distance, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional parts required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera module multi-functional by using it for both image capture and distance/focus detection. The same camera module that takes photos is also used to determine whether the object is at the correct measurement distance through focus matching, eliminating the need for separate proximity sensors or additional optic modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the camera module and distance detection into a single integrated system. By combining the autofocus capability of the camera with the temperature measurement function, the system avoids adding separate proximity sensors and optic modules, thereby reducing device complexity.
3Productivity
If the sensor is placed closer to the object for quick measurement, then measurement speed is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to distance variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the camera module continuously monitors focus matching status. The system only records temperature measurements when the focus matching indicator shows that the object is at the correct distance, thereby ensuring measurement accuracy while maintaining quick measurement speed through automated real-time monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary focus detection before temperature measurement. The camera module first determines whether the object is in focus (indicating correct distance), and only then does the temperature sensor take the measurement. This preliminary action ensures that measurements are only taken at the optimal distance, maintaining accuracy without sacrificing speed.
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
This solution enhances the accuracy of contactless body temperature measurement by reducing errors caused by distance variations and allows for convenient integration into electronic devices, providing precise readings without the need for additional sensors or optical modules.
Implementation Method 1
a camera module for determining whether an image of an object is in focus
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the object
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device for enhancing accuracy upon contactless body temperature measurement is provided. The electronic device includes an image sensor for obtaining an image of an object, a temperature sensor disposed at a position adjacent to the image sensor for measuring a temperature of the obtained object, and a controller for performing control to determine the temperature of the object using a focal length of a camera module including the image sensor corresponding to a time of obtaining the image of the object and a temperature output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the time of obtaining the image of the object.