Dynamic IR Camera Annotation System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current IR camera systems lack a flexible and user-friendly input interface for annotations, requiring users to predefine input structures and types, limiting adaptability and efficiency in recording and managing data associated with IR images.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a dynamic annotation system that allows users to customize annotation input structures in real-time, with automatic synchronization between the IR camera and a computer application, enabling intelligent data handling and reuse of data through a user-controllable annotation functionality system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a predetermined structure of input fields is used for annotations, then data input organization is improved, but user flexibility and adaptability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata input organizationVSAvoiduser flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The annotation input system transitions from a static predetermined structure to a dynamic structure that adapts in real-time based on user needs. The system automatically adds, removes, or modifies input fields during operation without requiring pre-definition, enabling both organized data input and user flexibility simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The annotation system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can automatically add input fields based on detected needs, store annotations with automatic association to IR images, synchronize data between camera and computer, and adapt its structure dynamically. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the system both organized and flexible.

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

2Ease of operation

If manual input transfer from paper to digital format is used, then annotation capability is provided, but time consumption and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveannotation capabilityVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic functions that previously required manual intervention. It automatically adds input fields based on user needs, automatically associates annotations with IR images, and automatically synchronizes data between devices. This self-service capability eliminates the time-consuming manual paper-to-digital transfer process while maintaining annotation functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares and structures annotation fields in advance based on detected user needs and context, so that when the user needs to input data, the appropriate fields are already ready. This preliminary structuring action eliminates the need for manual field creation and reduces time consumption while maintaining organized annotation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Stability of the object's composition

If annotation fields are predefined before use, then data structure consistency is improved, but real-time adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata structure consistencyVSAvoidreal-time adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic field generation where input fields are created, modified, or removed in real-time based on user needs and context, while maintaining consistent data structures through automatic association and synchronization mechanisms that ensure stability despite structural changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors user interaction patterns and annotation needs, providing feedback that triggers automatic addition or modification of input fields. This feedback loop maintains data structure consistency by systematically managing field creation and removal while enabling real-time adaptability to changing user requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Adaptability or versatility

If separate annotation systems are used on camera and computer, then device independence is improved, but data synchronization and accessibility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice independenceVSAvoiddata synchronization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges the annotation functionality across camera and computer devices through automatic synchronization. Annotations created on either device are automatically transferred and associated with the corresponding IR images on both devices, eliminating data loss and ensuring consistency while maintaining device independence for flexible operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the IR image and its associated metadata as an intermediary to synchronize annotation data between camera and computer. Annotations are linked to specific IR images, and this image-based association acts as a mediator that automatically transfers and synchronizes annotation information across devices, preventing data loss while allowing independent device operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10417323B2Dynamic annotation in user information system of IR camera
Publication Date: 2019.09.17 FLIR SYST AB
  • US10417323B2 patent drawing
  • US10417323B2 patent drawing
  • US10417323B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates in general to the field of applications and functions of an IR-camera device operated by a user in connection with the recording of IR images and to processing of IR images on a computer application program. A system for managing annotations to IR images comprising selectable annotation input functions that are actuatable by means of control commands displayed on the display is disclosed.