Cooling Device Control via Image Performance Model
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling control systems for dome cameras fail to optimize the operation of cooling devices based on image sensor performance, leading to prolonged usage and reduced lifespan due to temperature-dependent switching, which affects image quality, especially in high-temperature outdoor environments.
Innovation Solution
A smart temperature management system that controls the cooling device based on a model incorporating image sensor parameters such as temperature, video gain, integration time, and analog/digital gain to maintain optimal image performance, using a calculated image performance level to determine when to switch the cooling device on or off, with hysteresis and filtering to prevent rapid cycling and extend device lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the cooling device is controlled based solely on sensor temperature, then the sensor temperature is maintained within acceptable ranges, but the cooling device operates for extended periods resulting in reduced device lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The control system transitions from monitoring only temperature to monitoring multiple parameters simultaneously (temperature, integration time, video gain) to make more informed cooling device control decisions, reducing unnecessary operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring sensor parameters and adjusting cooling device operation based on the calculated image performance level, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual sensor conditions
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the cooling device is switched off frequently to extend lifespan, then device lifespan is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to insufficient cooling at high temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes from single-parameter (temperature) control to multi-parameter control by incorporating integration time and video gain into the decision-making process, enabling more accurate determination of when cooling is actually needed for maintaining image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces simple thermal control with a computational control system that calculates image performance level using a model that substitutes mechanical temperature-based switching with intelligent, multi-factor-based control decisions
3Reliability
If the cooling device operates continuously to maintain image quality, then image quality is preserved, but energy consumption increases and device lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial cooling action only when necessary by calculating the image performance level and comparing it against acceptable thresholds, avoiding excessive cooling operation and associated energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The control strategy changes from continuous operation to conditional operation based on multiple parameters, reducing energy consumption by activating cooling only when the calculated image performance level indicates quality degradation
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
The invention provides for a method of controlling a cooling device (42) and a cooling arrangement comprising such a cooling device (42). According to the method, a control is performed based on a model of an acceptable image performance and the temperature of the imaging sensor (28).