Camera Matte Box RFID Filter Data Capture for Post-Production

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing matte boxes for cameras do not capture or integrate filter information, such as type and position, into the camera's electronic data, leading to potential loss or miscommunication during post-production.

Innovation Solution

A matte box with a filter information system that includes an identification tag, such as an RFID tag, coupled to the filter tray or filter, and a reader device to record and display this information, allowing for automatic data capture and integration into camera files.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If manual recording of filter information is used, then device complexity is reduced, but information accuracy and completeness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter informationVSAvoidfilter information system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical recording processes with an automated electronic system. RFID tags and reader devices automatically capture filter information (type, position, orientation) and transmit it to the camera's electronic data storage, eliminating the need for manual note-taking and reducing information loss during post-production

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter information system operates autonomously by automatically detecting filters through RFID tags, recording their positions and types, and transmitting this data to the camera without requiring operator intervention. The system serves itself by managing the entire information capture and transmission process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If automated filter information capture is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidfilter information system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The matte box system is enhanced with multi-functional capabilities: it not only holds filters physically but also automatically identifies them via RFID tags, records their positions, and transmits data to the camera. This universal system combines mechanical filter holding with electronic information management in a single integrated device

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by automatically capturing and storing filter information before the actual photography or video recording begins. RFID tags on filters are read and their data is transmitted to the camera in advance, so that all filter metadata is ready when needed for post-production work

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If filter information is not integrated into camera data, then device complexity remains low, but post-production accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter data accuracyVSAvoidfilter information system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual tracking and recording methods with automated RFID-based electronic data capture. The system precisely identifies filter types, positions, and orientations through electronic tags and transmits this accurate data directly to the camera's metadata system, ensuring high measurement precision for post-production reference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by automatically transmitting filter information data from the RFID tags through the reader device to the camera's electronic storage. This closed-loop feedback ensures that accurate filter metadata is continuously updated and stored alongside the captured images or video, providing precise reference information for post-production

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 operational efficiency by automatically displaying and recording filter information, facilitating accurate post-production processes and reducing manual errors.

Implementation Method 1

the reader device is a RFID reader device... the recordation of the information data is based on an inductive coupling signal by the RFID reader device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12386242B2Systems and methods for capturing filter data on a matte box
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 LIGHT WIDOW LLC
  • US12386242B2 patent drawing
  • US12386242B2 patent drawing
  • US12386242B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A matte box for a camera includes a frame, a filter tray holder having at least one stage configured to receive a filter, and at least one filter tray configured to support the filter. The at least one filter tray is removably coupled to the filter tray holder at the at least one stage so that the filter is positioned in front of a lens of the camera. The matte box also includes a filter information system that has an identification tag coupled to the at least one filter tray and/or the filter. The identification tag includes informational data regarding the filter. A reader device supported on the frame and configured to receive the informational data from the identification tag. The filter information system records the informational data of the filter received in the filter tray holder.