Electrochromic Camera Lens Transmission Control for Variable Lighting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems lack dynamic control over optical transmission of lenses to adapt to varying image requirements and environmental conditions, affecting image quality and visibility.
Innovation Solution
A system that dynamically controls the optical transmission of a camera lens by adjusting the tint of an electrochromic coating in response to image requirements and ambient light, using a processor to manage voltage application to the coating based on sensor inputs and application demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the optical transmission of the lens is increased to improve image quality, then the image brightness and quality improve, but the lens becomes more visible and aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies electrochromic glass with variable optical transmission properties that can dynamically change between different transmission states. The system controls the lens to switch between a first optical transmission state (higher transmission for better image quality) and a second optical transmission state (lower transmission for better aesthetic appearance), allowing adaptive adjustment based on operational requirements.
2Shape
If the optical transmission of the lens is decreased to improve aesthetic appearance by masking the camera, then the camera becomes less visible, but image quality and sensor performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes electrochromic glass that can reversibly change its optical transmission properties. When aesthetic appearance is prioritized, the lens transitions to a lower transmission state to mask the camera. When image quality is prioritized, the lens transitions to a higher transmission state to allow more light to reach the sensor, thus resolving the contradiction through dynamic state changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tint of the lens is darkened to reduce visibility and improve aesthetic design, then the lens blends with the outer casing, but the amount of light reaching the sensor decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic glass enables the lens to adapt its optical transmission properties dynamically. The system can switch between a darkened state (for aesthetic design and camouflage) and a lightened state (for optimal light transmission efficiency), allowing the device to adapt to different operational contexts and requirements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the optical transmission is dynamically adjusted based on image requirements, then camera performance is optimized for specific applications, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the optical transmission parameter of the lens dynamically based on image requirements and ambient light conditions. The processor controls the electrochromic glass to adjust transmission levels, enabling the camera to optimize performance for different applications (e.g., high-quality imaging vs. augmented reality) while managing complexity through software-based control.
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
Enhances image quality by ensuring captured images meet application needs while altering the lens's visibility to suit aesthetic and functional requirements, improving user comfort and system efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The optical transmission of the lens may be controlled by adjusting the degree of tint of an outer lens of the camera... applying a voltage to a coating on the lens, where the voltage causes the coating on the lens to lighten the tint
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, for controlling optical transmission of a lens of a camera. A method includes obtaining a first image from a camera, determining that the first image does not satisfy an image requirement, in response to determining that the first image does not satisfy an image requirement, increasing an optical transmission of a lens of the camera, and, obtaining a second image with the camera while the optical transmission of the lens of the camera is increased.