Infrared Projection Alignment for Thermography Parallax Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of infrared (IR) imaging systems face difficulties in interpreting and analyzing IR radiation information due to low resolution displays and the need for delayed analysis, as well as challenges in aligning IR camera images with the real-world scene, leading to parallax errors and increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A thermography arrangement that combines an IR imaging system with a visible light projecting system to project a visible representation of IR radiation information directly onto the observed scene, aligned with the IR radiation, allowing for real-time interpretation and analysis, and includes additional information such as measurements and orientation markers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If IR radiation information is displayed on a separate display unit, then the information can be analyzed, but the resolution is low and the display is small making it difficult for users to interpret
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a separate display unit to direct projection onto the observed scene, adding the spatial dimension of the scene surface as a display medium. This allows the IR information to be presented on a large area directly at the location of interest, eliminating the resolution and size limitations of traditional displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a projection system as an intermediary between the IR imaging system and the user's eyes. The projector captures IR information and renders it visible light onto the scene, serving as a mediator that bridges the gap between the invisible IR radiation and human visual perception.
2Area of stationary object
If IR images are saved and transferred to another unit for display, then a larger display can be used, but there is a delay from detection to presentation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary processing by capturing and processing IR radiation information in real-time at the point of observation. The projection system is pre-configured to immediately display the processed information onto the scene without requiring transfer or storage, eliminating the time delay inherent in saving and retrieving images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes continuous real-time projection of IR information onto the observed scene as long as the IR imaging system is active. This continuous display eliminates the discontinuous process of saving, transferring, and loading images, maintaining constant availability of information for analysis.
3Manufacturing precision
If optical elements are added to align images, then parallax error can be compensated, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the alignment function from complex optical elements and implements it through computational methods. By removing the need for physical alignment components and using software-based correction, the system reduces device complexity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical optical alignment elements with digital image processing and computational geometry. The alignment and parallax compensation are achieved through software algorithms that calculate and adjust the projected image based on the relative positions of the projection and imaging optical axes, eliminating the need for physical optical adjustments.
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
Enables easier and more accurate on-site interpretation of IR radiation information by projecting aligned visible representations directly onto the scene, reducing parallax errors and production costs, and facilitating real-time analysis without the need for separate displays.
Implementation Method 1
a visible light projecting system (22) for projecting visible light onto an observed real world scene (1000)
Implementation Method 2
an infrared (IR) imaging system (18) for detecting infrared (IR) radiation emitted from an observed real world scene (1000)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for enabling easier interpretation and analysis of an observed real world scene by presenting a visible representation of infrared (IR) radiation information, based on IR radiation emitted from said real world scene, and additional information onto said observed real world scene, using thermography arrangement comprising an IR imaging system, a visible light imaging system and a visible light projecting system.