Dual Mode Vehicle Camera Lens Extraction for VLC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vehicle-to-vehicle communication using Visual Light Communication (VLC) faces challenges with data loss on the edges of the frame due to incomplete light coverage of the CMOS sensor, as the light from the LED transmitter needs to cover the entire sensor for effective data reception.
Innovation Solution
A dual mode camera system that includes a removable lens, allowing the camera to switch between image capture mode and VLC mode by adjusting the lens position within the light path, ensuring diffuse light exposure to the CMOS sensor for effective data reception in VLC mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a lens is used in the camera for image capture, then image quality is improved, but light coverage across the CMOS sensor is incomplete causing data loss in VLC mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lens from the optical path when VLC mode is activated. The camera system switches between two configurations: with lens for image capture mode and without lens for VLC mode. This extraction eliminates the lens-induced light coverage problem while maintaining image quality when the lens is needed, directly resolving the contradiction between image quality and data completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration where the lens position is changed based on the operational mode. The system transitions from a static single-mode design to a dynamic dual-mode design, adjusting the optical path configuration in real-time according to whether image capture or VLC is the active function, thereby optimizing performance for each mode without compromise.
2Device complexity
If the camera is designed for a single function, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability between image capture and VLC modes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system universal by enabling it to perform both image capture and VLC functions using the same CMOS sensor and optical path. The single camera hardware platform is designed to accommodate both functions through configurable optical configuration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices and achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability to a traditionally static camera design. By implementing mode-dependent optical configuration (lens in/out of path), the system adapts its structure based on operational requirements, transforming a single-function device into a versatile dual-mode system while maintaining relatively simple hardware architecture.
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 dual mode camera system effectively addresses data loss issues by ensuring consistent light exposure across the CMOS sensor in VLC mode, enhancing the reliability and range of vehicle-to-vehicle communication.
Implementation Method 1
VLC receivers use image sensors with a rolling shutter mechanism. For example, the image sensor may be a CMOS sensor or a photo diode.
Implementation Method 2
the light from the LED transmitter needs to cover the entire sensor for effective data reception
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are disclosed for a dual mode vehicle camera for visual light communication. An example vehicle includes a camera, a visual light communication (VLC) module, and a camera module. The camera includes a lens removable from a light path between an aperture and a CMOS sensor. The VLC module is communicatively coupled to the camera. The VLC module selects between first and second modes, and when in the second mode, removes the lens from the light path to receive VLC data via the camera. Additionally, the camera module captures images via camera when the VLC module selects the first mode.