Closed-Loop Camera Shutter Feedback for Finger Occlusion Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Occlusion of scenes captured by cameras, particularly in smartglasses devices, due to the finger pressing the shutter trigger, which is not detectable until after the image is taken, leading to poor quality images.
Innovation Solution
A closed-loop photography system using an occlusion detection device that employs a proximity detection device with an IR proximity sensor and a convolutional neural network (CNN) to predict finger occlusion and issue alerts through haptics, audio, or heads-up displays before image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a finger is used to depress the shutter trigger, then the shutter can be activated to capture the image, but the finger may occlude the scene and degrade image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of finger position and movement toward the shutter trigger before the actual image capture. By detecting the finger's proximity and trajectory in advance, the system can predict potential occlusion and alert the user before the shutter opens, allowing the user to adjust their finger position to avoid occluding the scene.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback to the user about finger position relative to the shutter trigger and potential occlusion risk. Through visual, auditory, or haptic notifications, the system informs the user when their finger is about to occlude the scene, enabling them to correct their action and prevent image degradation.
2Ease of operation
If smartglasses form factor is used, then hands-free operation is enabled, but previewing the image before capture becomes impossible making occlusion detection harder
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical/visual previewing mechanism with an electronic detection system. Instead of requiring the user to look through a viewfinder to preview the image, the system uses sensors (such as infrared proximity sensors, capacitive sensors, or cameras) to electronically detect the finger's position and predict occlusion, enabling hands-free operation while maintaining occlusion detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary detection layer between the user's finger and the image capture process. Sensors act as intermediaries that detect finger position, movement, and intent to trigger the shutter, providing information about potential occlusion without requiring direct visual previewing by the user.
3Productivity
If traditional camera systems are used, then image capture is straightforward, but occlusion by the shutter-triggering finger is not detectable until after the image is taken
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and analysis of finger position and movement before the shutter opens. By detecting the finger's proximity, velocity, and trajectory in advance, the system determines whether occlusion will occur before the actual image capture, preventing loss of occlusion information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback to the user about detected occlusion risk before the image is captured. This feedback loop allows the user to adjust their action in real-time, preventing the loss of scene information that would occur with post-capture occlusion detection.
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
Prevents finger occlusion by guiding the user to avoid obstructing the scene, ensuring higher-quality images and avoiding parallax effects.
Implementation Method 1
The detection of the moving finger may be made by a motion detector that reflects electromagnetic radiation off the finger
Data Source
AI summary
Improved techniques of generating photographs using a camera or other image capture device includes the use of “soft” indicators such as haptics, audio, heads-up display, and other modalities to warn the user of a potential occlusion before a user activates a shutter trigger.