Modular Fresnel Lens Trail Camera for Accurate Detection Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trail cameras are costly, cumbersome, and inefficient, often requiring complex and time-consuming setups that limit battery lifetime and may not accurately target the desired detection zone due to varying mounting heights.
Innovation Solution
A trail camera system utilizing modular Fresnel lenses that allow for configurable infrared sensing angles, enabling easy lens changes based on mounting height, and a wireless device application for real-time configuration and visualization of the detection zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional trail cameras use fixed lens configurations, then the camera structure is simple, but the camera cannot accurately target the desired detection zone when mounted at different heights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lens system into separate modular Fresnel lenses that can be independently selected and attached. Each lens is designed for a specific mounting height range, allowing users to segment the detection zone coverage into discrete height-based configurations. This enables accurate targeting for different mounting scenarios without requiring a complex variable-focus lens system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the focal length parameter by providing multiple Fresnel lenses with different focal lengths (e.g., 25mm, 50mm, 75mm) corresponding to different mounting heights. Users select the appropriate lens based on the mounting height parameter, thereby adjusting the detection zone angle and range to match the installation conditions without modifying the camera body.
2Measurement precision
If trail cameras use multiple fixed lens options, then detection accuracy improves, but the camera becomes more costly and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic lens selection mechanism where users can change the Fresnel lens based on mounting height requirements. The system transitions from a static fixed-lens design to a dynamic configurable system, allowing the optimal lens to be selected and attached for each specific installation scenario, thereby maintaining detection accuracy while simplifying the overall system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides pre-configured Fresnel lenses with specific focal lengths designed for particular mounting height ranges. Users perform preliminary selection of the appropriate lens before installation, eliminating the need for complex post-installation adjustments or sophisticated automated lens selection systems, thereby reducing setup complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.
3Duration of action of moving object
If trail cameras use configurable detection zones, then battery lifetime is extended, but the system becomes more complex and time-consuming to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection zone configuration into discrete height-based presets, each corresponding to a specific Fresnel lens. This segmentation allows the system to achieve configurable detection zones without requiring complex software algorithms or multiple sensors, thereby extending battery life through reduced processing while maintaining configuration simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the Fresnel lens serve multiple functions: optical focusing, detection zone definition, and mounting height indication. By encoding the detection zone configuration information in the lens selection itself, the system achieves multi-functionality without adding separate configuration components, thereby extending battery life while keeping the system simple.
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 accurate and efficient image and video capture by allowing users to easily set up the camera at any height, increasing successful captures and extending battery life through customizable detection zones and wireless configuration.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of Fresnel lenses each operable to be individually mounted to or with the infrared sensor and to focus infrared light to the infrared sensor from a different direction
Implementation Method 2
an infrared sensor; wherein one of the plurality of Fresnel lenses is mounted to or with the infrared sensor during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A cellular trail camera system is disclosed and includes a housing; a mounting bracket for mounting the camera; a visible sensor; an infrared sensor; and a plurality of Fresnel lenses each operable to be individually mounted to or with the infrared sensor and to focus infrared light to the infrared sensor from a different direction. One of the Fresnel lenses may be mounted to or with the housing during operation. The housing includes a wireless transceiver, which may communicate via a cellular network. The camera may communicate with a wireless communication device via the wireless transceiver. The camera may communicate images and/or video to the wireless device. The infrared sensor may include a plurality of elements. The camera may be powered by a solar cell that is mounted on the camera or remote from the camera. The visible sensor may be activated when the infrared sensor detects a heat-generating object.