Wireless Power Transfer for IR Illuminator Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indoor security cameras using IR illuminators to monitor outdoor activities through glass windows face the issue of infrared light reflection, which blinds the camera when the IR illuminator is mounted on the same side as the camera, preventing effective image detection at night.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transfer system using magnetic induction to power the IR illuminator from outside the glass window, allowing the IR illuminator to be mounted on the opposite side, thus avoiding light reflection and enabling clear image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the IR illuminator is mounted on the same side as the camera, then the camera can detect images in the dark, but the glass window reflects the infrared light back to the camera causing the camera to be blinded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional mounting arrangement by placing the IR illuminator on the opposite side of the glass window from the camera. This reversal eliminates the reflection problem while maintaining night vision functionality, as the infrared light passes through the glass to illuminate the scene without reflecting back to the camera sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the system from a two-dimensional plane (camera and illuminator on the same side) to a three-dimensional arrangement (camera and illuminator on opposite sides of the glass window). This spatial reconfiguration resolves the reflection issue by changing the geometric relationship between the light source, glass surface, and camera sensor.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the IR illuminator is mounted outside the glass window, then light reflection is avoided, but external wiring is required to power the illuminator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical connection (wiring through the glass) with a wireless power transfer system using magnetic induction. The power transmitter on the indoor side wirelessly transmits electrical power to the power receiver on the outdoor side, eliminating the need for physical wires penetrating the glass window.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless power transfer technology as an intermediary mechanism to bridge the power supply gap between the indoor camera system and the outdoor IR illuminator. This intermediary solution enables power transmission through the glass barrier without direct electrical connection, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Device complexity
If wireless power transfer is implemented, then external wiring is eliminated, but the system requires power transmission through the glass window
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the dual functionality of the glass window as both an optical medium (allowing infrared light transmission for imaging) and an electrical medium (allowing wireless power transmission through magnetic induction). This multi-functionality approach simplifies the system by using the existing glass structure for both light and power transmission without requiring additional openings or modifications.
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 the IR camera to function effectively at night without external wiring, providing clear infrared imaging by transmitting power through the glass window, thus overcoming the reflection issue and ensuring continuous monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless power transfer system using magnetic induction to power the IR illuminator from outside the glass window
Implementation Method 2
transmitting power through the glass window
Data Source
AI summary
A camera system comprising a camera, a wireless power transmitter, a wireless power receiver, and an infrared illuminator. The camera and wireless power transmitter are powered by a power source. The wireless power transmitter wirelessly transmits power to the wireless power transmitter to power the infrared illuminator. The infrared illuminator generates infrared light.