Camera Receiver Optics for Rolling-Shutter VLC and Focused Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for visible light communication using CMOS image sensors face limitations in data transfer rates due to the rolling shutter effect, and existing optical systems for data transfer and imaging struggle to achieve high data rates while maintaining focused optical images.
Innovation Solution
A receiver system with an attachment element comprising alternating contoured and planar regions that refract and transmit light differently, allowing for separate processing of unfocused and focused images, enabling data transfer rates beyond the camera's image frequency while capturing focused images simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a lenticular film or cylindrical lens array is used to achieve high data transfer rates, then data transfer rate is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment element is segmented into multiple strip-shaped regions (lenticular regions and planar regions) arranged in alternating pattern. Each strip region performs a specific optical function (refraction or straight transmission), allowing the system to process different light paths simultaneously and achieve high data transfer rates without requiring a single complex optical component
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the attachment element have different optical properties: lenticular regions are designed to refract light at specific angles for data transmission, while planar regions allow straight light transmission for focused imaging. This local differentiation enables the system to perform multiple functions (data reception and imaging) simultaneously with a single simple component
2Productivity
If modulated light is used for data transfer, then data transfer rate is improved, but loss of information increases due to rolling shutter effect
Solution Approach 1:
The alternating strip-shaped regions enable continuous data reception by ensuring that light from different spatial positions is continuously directed to appropriate sensor regions throughout the rolling shutter scan. This continuous spatial-temporal mapping maintains data integrity even as the sensor scans line-by-line, preventing information loss
3Productivity
If an attachment element with multiple functions is used, then productivity is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment element is implemented as a thin film structure with alternating lenticular and planar regions. This thin-film approach allows the element to be manufactured using standard optical film fabrication techniques, making it cost-effective and easy to produce despite its multiple functions. The thin film can be easily integrated into existing camera systems without requiring complex assembly
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 system achieves higher data transfer rates and allows simultaneous recording of focused optical images, with the attachment element being simple and cost-effective to produce.
Implementation Method 1
Light passing through the contoured regions of the attachment element is relatively strongly refracted and generates a first image on the light-sensitive area of the image sensor
Implementation Method 2
Light passing through the planar regions of the attachment element penetrates the attachment element at least approximately in a straight line and generates a second image on the light-sensitive area of the image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A receiver for a system for transmitting light, includes a camera having an image sensor, a light-sensitive area of the image sensor including a plurality of lines of light-sensitive elements, the image sensor being configured such that the light-sensitive area of the image sensor is scanned line by line or column by column, and an attachment element disposed such that light impinging on the light-sensitive area of the image sensor first passes through the attachment element. The attachment element includes strip-shaped, contoured regions and strip-shaped, planar regions. The contoured regions and the planar regions are disposed alternately in a transverse direction. The contoured regions have a constant cross section in an advance direction extending perpendicular to the transverse direction.