Liquid-Crystal Low Pass Filter with Variable Polarization Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current liquid-crystal low pass filters in cameras have a fixed cut-off frequency, making it difficult to shoot still images continuously while changing the cut-off frequency, which is necessary for optimal image quality in both still and moving image modes.
Innovation Solution
A control unit that adjusts the polarization state of a liquid-crystal low pass filter's layer to change the cut-off frequency by applying different drive signals, allowing the filter to switch between multiple polarization states to adapt to varying image data outputs, thereby changing the peak value of point-image intensity distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the cut-off frequency of the liquid-crystal low pass filter is set to the Nyquist frequency in still image mode, then the image quality of still images is improved, but the moire problem occurs more easily in moving image mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the cut-off frequency of the liquid-crystal low pass filter variable rather than fixed. The filter dynamically changes its cut-off frequency based on the imaging mode (still image or moving image) through voltage control of the liquid crystal layer, allowing optimal performance in each mode without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by controlling the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer to adjust the cut-off frequency. In still image mode, the voltage is set to achieve a cut-off frequency matching the higher Nyquist frequency for better image quality, while in moving image mode, the voltage is adjusted to lower the cut-off frequency and prevent moire, thus optimizing performance for each mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple liquid-crystal low pass filters with different cut-off frequencies are provided for switching between modes, then the adaptability to different imaging modes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single liquid-crystal low pass filter that can perform multiple functions by changing its cut-off frequency through voltage control. This single filter replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate filters, maintaining adaptability to different imaging modes while significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes to enable a single filter to serve multiple purposes. By controlling the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer, the same physical filter can adjust its optical properties to match different Nyquist frequencies, eliminating the need for multiple filters and reducing system complexity while maintaining full adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cut-off frequency is changed by switching between multiple filters, then the adaptability is improved, but the waiting time for filter switching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing continuous, voltage-controlled adjustment of the cut-off frequency within a single liquid-crystal filter. This dynamic control allows instantaneous transitions between different frequency settings without the mechanical switching delays inherent in multi-filter systems, thereby maintaining adaptability while eliminating waiting time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by keeping the liquid-crystal filter in a ready state with controllable voltage applied, allowing immediate adjustment to any required cut-off frequency. Unlike systems that require physical switching between filters, this approach has the filter prepared and capable of instant reconfiguration, eliminating waiting time while maintaining full adaptability.
4Device complexity
If a fixed cut-off frequency is used in the liquid-crystal low pass filter, then the device simplicity is maintained, but the ability to shoot still images continuously with optimal settings is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by controlling the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer to dynamically adjust the cut-off frequency. This allows the filter to adapt to different imaging requirements (still vs. moving image modes) without requiring complex mechanical switching mechanisms, maintaining device simplicity while enabling continuous shooting with optimal settings for each mode.
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 continuous shooting of still images with adjustable cut-off frequencies, reducing waiting time and improving image quality by dynamically changing the filter's settings without requiring new optical components.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid crystal layer (113) having a liquid crystal (112) and a pair of electrodes (112, 114) for applying a voltage to the liquid crystal layer (113)
Implementation Method 2
the polarization state of a liquid crystal layer (113) of a liquid-crystal low pass filter (11)
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit includes a controller controlling a polarization state of a liquid crystal layer of a liquid-crystal low pass filter to be any of a first polarization state, a second polarization state, and an intermediate polarization state between the first polarization state and the second polarization state. In output of a plurality of image data from an imaging element, the controller controls the polarization state of the liquid crystal layer to be the first polarization state or the second polarization state when first image data of the image data is outputted, and the controller controls the polarization state of the liquid crystal layer to be the intermediate polarization state when one or more of second and subsequent ones of the image data are outputted.