Localized Light Source Array for Image Scanning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current imagers inefficiently manage light sources as they maintain extensive power consumption across all pixels during scanning, despite only the pixels being scanned requiring illumination.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that identifies and selectively engages a subset of light sources corresponding to the pixels being scanned, and disengages them once scanning is complete, using an integrated circuit controller to manage the array of light sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If a single coherent light source is used for image illumination, then image quality and consistency are improved, but energy consumption increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage illumination consistencyVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the image array into multiple pixel groups and corresponds each group to a dedicated light source in the array. Instead of using a single coherent light source for the entire image, each light source is selectively activated to illuminate only its corresponding pixel group during scanning, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining illumination quality for the active regions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements localized illumination by assigning specific light sources to specific pixel groups. Each light source provides illumination tailored to its corresponding spatial region, ensuring that light is available where needed during scanning while remaining off elsewhere. This localizes the illumination function to match the scanning progression, reducing wasteful energy consumption in unscanned regions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If all light sources remain engaged during scanning, then illumination availability is ensured, but energy efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveillumination availabilityVSAvoidenergy waste

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically controls the state of light sources based on the scanning progression. As the scanner moves through the image array, the controller activates the corresponding light source for each pixel group being scanned and deactivates light sources for regions that have already been scanned or will be scanned later. This dynamic state change ensures illumination is available when needed while eliminating energy waste from continuously active light sources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic engagement and disengagement of light sources synchronized with the scanning process. Each light source is engaged during its corresponding pixel group's scanning period and disengaged afterward. This periodic action pattern ensures illumination is available during the active scanning phase while minimizing energy consumption during idle periods, balancing reliability and efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS8958134B2Image array with localized light source

Publication Date: 2015.02.17 SNKP CORP

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention provide lighting for an image array. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for providing localized lighting for an image array. In a typical embodiment, a set of pixels being scanned in the image array is identified. A subset of light sources within an array of light sources that corresponds to the set of pixels is engaged. After the pixels have been scanned, the subset of light sources is disengaged.