Microcontroller Video Interface for Infrared Thermal Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional uncooled microbolometers for infrared radiation detection face challenges with high power consumption due to complex Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) used for non-uniformity correction and contrast enhancement, and require costly conversion to application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), while also dealing with inherent non-uniformities in pixel responsivity that complicate image processing.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a microcontroller with a video interface to send non-uniformity correction terms directly to the focal plane array (FPA) and using read-out integrated circuitry (ROIC) to correct thermal variations, allowing for image preprocessing and synchronization, which reduces power consumption and simplifies the system by leveraging commercially available processors with video interfaces and analog-to-digital converters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) are used to perform non-uniformity correction and contrast enhancement, then image preprocessing capability is improved, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters by using a microcontroller with video interface instead of FPGA, operating at lower power consumption levels while maintaining the necessary image preprocessing functions through software-based non-uniformity correction algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a microcontroller that can execute software implementations of NUC algorithms, effectively copying the functionality of FPGA-based processing but with lower power requirements, as the microcontroller can be put into low-power states between processing tasks
2Use of energy by moving object
If FPGA design is converted to application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a microcontroller that serves multiple functions: it performs non-uniformity correction, generates correction terms, interfaces with the focal plane array, and can be updated via software. This universal component replaces the need for custom ASIC design, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining low power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a reconfigurable microcontroller system where correction algorithms can be updated and modified through software, providing dynamic adaptability without requiring physical hardware changes or expensive ASIC re-spins, thus reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining optimization
3Device complexity
If conventional microbolometers are used with inherent non-uniformities in pixel responsivity, then device complexity is reduced, but image quality deteriorates due to amplified non-uniformities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a microcontroller as an intermediary between the focal plane array and the display system. This intermediary generates and applies non-uniformity correction terms to compensate for pixel variations, improving image quality without requiring more complex detector hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs non-uniformity correction in advance by generating correction terms that are applied to the raw detector data before image formation and display. This preliminary correction prevents non-uniformities from being amplified during subsequent processing, improving image quality while maintaining simple detector design
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
This approach reduces power consumption and simplifies the design by enabling flexible, low-power image preprocessing and compatibility with visible light image processors, eliminating the need for additional circuitry and enhancing image quality by correcting thermal variations in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
A microbolometer is a type of uncooled sensor for detecting infrared (IR) radiation. Conventional microbolometers include a focal plane array (FPA) of detector elements, or pixels, each of which measures a change in electrical resistance while being exposed to thermal radiation.
Data Source
AI summary
An infrared thermal imaging system includes a focal plane array (FPA) of infrared detectors, read out integrated circuitry (ROIC) operatively coupled to the FPA, and a microcontroller having at least one video display interface operatively coupled to the ROIC. The FPA is configured to generate an output signal in response to infrared radiation impinging upon the infrared detectors. The microcontroller is configured to send data to the ROIC via the at least one video display interface, the data including non-uniformity correction terms for correcting non-uniformities of the FPA.