Infrared Camera Dynamic Filter Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems using visible light often fail to reveal prohibited materials carried by subjects, such as those obscured by sunglasses or clothing, due to environmental conditions affecting the quality of infrared (IR) images, which require optimal IR spectrum selection and light management.
Innovation Solution
An IR camera system with a filter capable of selecting from multiple pass bands within the IR spectrum, automatically adjusted based on ambient light levels, and equipped with an infrared illumination source to enhance image quality, allowing for the use of IR pass filtered images to see through various obstructions like tinted windows and clothing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single fixed pass band filter is used in the IR camera system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different environmental conditions and subject types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic filter selection system where the control device automatically selects from multiple pass bands (700nm, 800nm, 900nm, 1000nm) based on real-time environmental conditions such as ambient visible light levels and IR light levels measured by sensors. This allows the system to adapt to varying conditions without requiring manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between simplified operation and environmental adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the optical parameter (pass band wavelength) based on measured environmental conditions. By measuring ambient visible light levels and IR light levels, the control device selects the optimal pass band center wavelength from multiple options, enabling the system to adapt to different lighting conditions and subject types while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate filters with fixed pass bands are used, then the adaptability to different wavelengths is improved, but the device complexity and switching mechanism requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic switching mechanism controlled by a control device that automatically selects among multiple fixed pass band filters (700nm, 800nm, 900nm, 1000nm) based on environmental sensors. This automated dynamic selection reduces the complexity burden by eliminating manual switching requirements while maintaining the adaptability benefits of multiple wavelength options.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by using onboard sensors to measure ambient light conditions and automatically determining the optimal pass band selection. The control device autonomously manages the filter switching without external intervention, reducing operational complexity while maintaining comprehensive wavelength adaptability across different environmental conditions.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the pass band width is increased to capture more IR energy, then the signal strength is improved, but the spectral resolution and ability to distinguish specific wavelength features deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the IR spectrum into multiple discrete pass bands centered at different wavelengths (700nm, 800nm, 900nm, 1000nm), each with a controlled bandwidth of approximately +/-20nm. This segmentation allows the system to capture sufficient energy in each band while maintaining spectral resolution by selecting the appropriate segment based on the target subject and environmental conditions, rather than using a single wide band that would blur spectral features.
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 high-quality IR imaging capable of detecting hidden threats and facial biometrics through various types of sunglasses and clothing, providing enhanced visibility and security applications.
Implementation Method 1
The lens is configured to collect optical energy conveyed from a subject. In this regard, the conveyed optical energy includes both optical energy reflected from the subject and optical energy emanating from the subject.
Implementation Method 2
The filter provides a plurality of pass bands associated with different center wavelengths within an infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and is operable to pass filter optical energy collected by the lens in accordance with any selected one of its plurality of pass bands.
Implementation Method 3
The optical detector is operable to generate an electrical signal representing an image of the subject in response to optical energy collected by the lens and pass filtered by the filter before being incident on the optical detector.
Data Source
AI summary
Infrared (IR) camera systems for and a method of obtaining infrared images of target subjects are provided. In one embodiment, an IR camera system (10) includes a lens (12), a number of IR pass filters (14), an optical detector (16), a processor (18) mounted on a circuit board (20), a distance sensor (22), a visible light sensor (24), an IR light sensor (26), an IR illuminator (28), and a number of video outputs (30), all of which may be disposed within an appropriately configured housing (32). The filters (14) are mounted on a juke-box like rack system (34) also included within the housing (32). The processor (18) determines which pass filter is needed in order to optimize the image and sends an electronic signal to the rack system (34) directing the rack system (34) to move the appropriate filter (14) into the optical pathway between the lens (12) and the optical detector (16) and pull all of the other IR filters (14) out of the optical pathway between the lens (12) and the optical detector (16).