Infrared Camera Positioner Aiming via Portable Target Finder
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional infrared cameras lack user control over processing techniques during viewing, making it difficult to switch between modes and aim at objects viewed by other devices, particularly in maritime applications, leading to less desirable image quality and reduced user input.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a fixed mount camera subsystem with a camera positioner and a portable imaging/viewing subsystem that communicates target position information to aim the camera and provide selectable processing modes, allowing users to control image processing and aiming through a communications link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional infrared cameras are used for maritime applications, then the basic imaging function is provided, but user control over processing techniques is limited and switching between modes is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between multiple processing modes (enhanced mode, standard mode, raw mode) based on user input and environmental conditions. The processing mode is not fixed but can be changed in real-time during operation, allowing the camera to adapt to different maritime scenarios such as search and rescue, navigation, or surveillance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes processing parameters including dynamic range compression ratios, noise filtering levels, and contrast enhancement factors. By adjusting these parameters, the system can optimize image quality for specific maritime conditions while maintaining user control over the processing technique applied to the infrared data.
2Ease of operation
If user-controlled processing is performed post capture, then initial processing has been completed, but user input and control are lessened resulting in less desirable images
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary processing of the infrared image data before it is fully captured and stored. By pre-computing enhanced mode images with appropriate dynamic range compression and noise filtering, the system prepares multiple processing variants in advance, allowing users to select from pre-processed options without experiencing processing delays during critical viewing moments.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing pipeline operates continuously rather than in discrete post-capture steps. As infrared data is being captured, processing algorithms continuously generate enhanced, standard, and raw mode images, ensuring that processed images are always available for immediate user review without interruption or delay in the imaging workflow.
3Measurement precision
If a fixed mount camera is used, then stable imaging is achieved, but aiming at objects viewed by portable devices is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from portable imaging devices to adjust the orientation and positioning of fixed mount cameras. When a portable device detects a target of interest, it transmits position information back to the fixed mount camera system, which then automatically or semi-automatically aims at the identified target, combining the stability of fixed mounting with the targeting capability of portable devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication and coordination system between portable imaging devices and fixed mount cameras. This intermediary layer receives target position data from portable devices, processes the aiming information, and controls the fixed mount camera positioning mechanisms, enabling seamless collaboration between different camera types without direct manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
Infrared camera systems and related methods for facilitating target position acquisition are provided for various applications. For example, a system may include a portable imaging/viewing subsystem having a target position finder and may also include a fixed mount camera subsystem having a camera and a camera positioner. A communications link may be configured to communicate a signal from the target position finder to the camera positioner. The signal may be representative of a position of a target being imaged/viewed with the portable imaging/viewing subsystem. The camera positioner may aim the camera toward the target in response to the signal. The target may, for example, be a man overboard. Thus, the system and related method may be useful in search and rescue operations.