Image Sensor Mode Switching for Visible Light Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Visible Light Communication (VLC) systems face challenges in power efficiency and sensitivity, particularly in determining the appropriate image sensor mode for effective VLC signal detection, which affects battery life and signal detection accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The system intelligently determines the operation mode of image sensors based on the properties of the VLC light, selectively enabling monochrome or multi-color modes to optimize power consumption and sensitivity, using a combination of monochrome and multi-color image sensors to enhance VLC signal detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the device uses multi-color image sensor mode to detect VLC signals, then color discrimination capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically switches between monochrome and multi-color sensor modes based on real-time detection of VLC signal properties. The system evaluates whether the incoming light contains color information necessary for VLC decoding, and only activates multi-color mode when needed, otherwise operates in power-saving monochrome mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the image sensor by switching between different color filter array configurations (e.g., RGB, CYG, MBG) based on the detected light properties. This allows the system to optimize both power consumption and color discrimination capability by selecting the appropriate parameter set for current conditions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the device uses monochrome image sensor mode to detect VLC signals, then power efficiency is improved, but color discrimination capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operational mode based on environmental conditions and signal characteristics. When VLC signals are detected in low-light conditions or when color information is not required for decoding, the system switches to monochrome mode to maximize power efficiency while maintaining sufficient detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by having the system automatically determine the appropriate operating mode based on its own detection of light properties, without requiring external control. The device assesses the VLC signal characteristics and autonomously selects between monochrome and multi-color modes to optimize performance.
3Measurement precision
If the device detects VLC signals in low-light conditions, then positioning accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of light properties before full VLC signal processing. The system first assesses whether the incoming light contains sufficient color information and signal strength to warrant activation of multi-color mode, allowing it to prepare the appropriate detection mode in advance and avoid unnecessary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes detection parameters based on light conditions by switching between sensor modes that are optimized for different scenarios. In low-light conditions where color information is sufficient, it activates multi-color mode for accurate positioning; otherwise, it uses monochrome mode to conserve power.
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
This approach improves power efficiency and increases the sensitivity of VLC signal detection, allowing for more accurate positioning and information extraction even in low-light conditions, thereby extending battery life and enhancing indoor positioning capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
detecting the light, using the at least one image sensor in the determined mode of operation, to produce a plurality of detection signals
Data Source
AI summary
An example of a method of processing visible light signals includes determining a property of light received from a light source at a device; determining a mode of operation of the device based on the property of the light, the mode of operation corresponding to a color discrimination capability of at least one image sensor of the device; detecting the light, using the at least one image sensor in the determined mode of operation, to produce a plurality of detection signals, the at least one image sensor including a plurality of pixels and each detection signal of the plurality of detection signals being associated with a respective pixel of the plurality of pixels; and extracting information from the plurality of detection signals.


