Camera Device Light Path Control for IR Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera devices face challenges in capturing high-quality infrared (IR) images due to light saturation issues and the need for separate modules for IR light sources and structured light projectors, which increase device volume and complicate light intensity control.
Innovation Solution
A camera device with a light emitting portion that can change light paths to output either a surface or point light source pattern, using a combination of VCSEL elements, a lens assembly with varying refractive index liquids, and an optical member to control light intensity and prevent saturation, allowing for simultaneous IR image and depth map capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate light source modules are mounted for IR imaging and structured light projection, then functional versatility is improved, but device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the IR light source and structured light projector into a single integrated light source module. The light source generates both IR light for imaging and structured light for depth mapping simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate modules and reducing overall device volume while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single light source module is designed to perform multiple functions: it emits IR light for infrared imaging and structured light patterns for depth map acquisition. This multi-functional design allows one component to replace what would traditionally require two separate components, thereby reducing device volume.
2Measurement precision
If high intensity light is emitted for IR image capture, then imaging capability is improved, but light saturation occurs making imaging impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic light intensity control where the light source intensity is adjusted based on the distance to the object. When the object is close, intensity is reduced to prevent saturation; when the object is far, intensity is increased to maintain imaging capability. This dynamic adjustment optimizes imaging across varying distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the light intensity parameter adaptively based on object distance. By monitoring distance and adjusting the light emission intensity accordingly, the system prevents light saturation at close ranges while ensuring sufficient illumination for imaging at longer ranges, thus maintaining optimal imaging capability across all distances.
3Ease of operation
If light intensity is not controlled, then imaging simplicity is maintained, but light saturation prevents obtaining images
Solution Approach 1:
The light source module incorporates automatic intensity regulation that adjusts emission levels based on detected object distance without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates to prevent saturation while ensuring adequate illumination, maintaining operational simplicity while improving reliability of image acquisition across different shooting scenarios.
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
The solution enables a compact camera device that prevents light saturation, achieves high accuracy IR imaging regardless of object distance, and allows for simultaneous IR image and depth map capture using a single light source, reducing module volume and improving imaging accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a light source comprising a plurality of light emitting elements and configured to generate the light
Implementation Method 2
a lens assembly configured to condense light generated by the light source and output the condensed light along the first light path or the second light path
Implementation Method 3
an optical member disposed to be spaced apart from the light source and configured to diffract the light
Implementation Method 4
a light receiving portion configured to receive the light reflected by an object and generate an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
A camera device is provided. The camera device includes a light emitting portion configured to change a light path of light according to a first control signal and output the light along a first light path or a second light path, a light receiving portion configured to receive the light reflected by an object and generate an electrical signal, and a control portion configured to generate the first control signal which controls the light path of the light to be changed to the first light path or the second light path. Here, the light emitting portion outputs the light with a first pattern along the first light path or outputs the light with a second pattern along the second light path.