Security Camera IR Illumination Control via Image Blur Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of a separate photosensor to detect light reflected from the scene in security camera systems increases the overall cost and engineering complexity, as it must be accurately positioned to avoid direct light from the illumination system while detecting scene illumination effectively.
Innovation Solution
A controller analyzes images captured by the imaging chip to determine the power required for the infrared illumination system, adjusting it based on blur detection to ensure optimal illumination conditions, thereby eliminating the need for a separate photosensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate photosensor is used to detect light reflected from the scene, then the ability to control illumination power is improved, but the system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the illumination power detection function into the existing imaging chip by using image analysis algorithms. Instead of adding a separate photosensor, the system analyzes images captured by the imaging chip for characteristics like overall brightness, contrast, and signal-to-noise ratio to determine illumination power levels, thereby eliminating the need for additional components while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging chip is made multi-functional by enabling it to serve both as the primary imaging sensor and as a photosensor for illumination power detection. The system uses the same imaging chip to capture scene images and simultaneously analyzes those images to determine illumination power, making the imaging chip perform multiple functions without requiring separate dedicated sensors
2Illumination intensity
If the illumination power is increased to improve scene illumination, then the imaging quality is improved, but the imaging sensor may become saturated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the controller continuously analyzes images from the imaging chip to monitor illumination conditions. Based on the image analysis results (brightness, contrast, signal-to-noise ratio), the controller dynamically adjusts the illumination power to maintain optimal imaging conditions without causing sensor saturation, creating a closed-loop control system
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination power is made dynamic rather than static, allowing real-time adjustment based on actual imaging conditions. The system continuously adapts the illumination power level according to the analyzed image characteristics, enabling the system to respond to changing scene conditions and prevent saturation while maintaining optimal illumination
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 approach reduces system costs and complexity by using image analysis to control illumination power, ensuring optimal imaging conditions without saturating the imaging sensors, thus maintaining image quality and reducing aberrations like blur and halos.
Implementation Method 1
the use of infrared light illumination ensures that the cameras do not have a detrimental effect on individuals within the scene
Implementation Method 2
photo sensors that detect light reflected from the scenes
Data Source
AI summary
In a security camera system, the power to the illumination system is controlled based on the quality of the images generated by the imaging system. Specifically, the images in the frames detected by the imaging chip of the security camera are analyzed to determine whether or not there is adequate or inadequate power to the illumination system. The controller then changes the power to the illumination system until optimal illumination of the scene is achieved. Generally the power to the illumination system is reduced in response to increasing blur in the images or halos around edges in the images.