Movable Infrared Cut-off Filter for Vibration-Resistant Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infrared cut-off filters in image capturing devices can shift due to vibrations, causing color shifts and reduced imaging quality, especially in portable devices like vehicle recorders and body-worn cameras.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing device with a filter module and a switching mechanism, controlled by GPIO signals, that adjusts the position of the infrared cut-off filter based on operation modes and sensed vibrations to maintain optimal filter placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the infrared lighting module is used to facilitate capturing in low-illuminance environments, then the imaging capability in dark conditions is improved, but the infrared cut-off filter can shift due to vibration causing color shift and reduced imaging quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable filter module that can dynamically adjust the position of the infrared cut-off filter between an initial position (where it blocks the imaging optical path) and a second position (where it does not block the path). This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt to different operating conditions, particularly during vibration events, maintaining both the ability to capture in low light and the stability of filter positioning through active control based on acceleration sensor feedback.
2Measurement precision
If the infrared cut-off filter is positioned in the imaging optical path during daytime operation, then color accuracy is improved, but the filter may shift due to vibration causing color shift and reduced imaging effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where an acceleration sensor detects vibration events and sends signals to the control unit. When vibration exceeding a threshold is detected, the control unit automatically adjusts the filter module's position to prevent color shift. This closed-loop feedback system maintains color accuracy by continuously monitoring for conditions that would cause filter displacement and actively correcting the filter position in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an acceleration sensor as an intermediary element that mediates between the physical vibration environment and the filter positioning system. The sensor detects mechanical vibrations and translates them into electrical signals that trigger the control unit to adjust the filter position, serving as a bridge that enables the system to respond to environmental disturbances without direct mechanical coupling between the vibration source and the filter assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a switching module is added to control the infrared lighting module based on illuminance levels, then adaptability to different lighting conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into existing components to minimize added complexity. The control unit serves dual purposes: it controls both the infrared lighting module based on illuminance sensor input and the filter module based on acceleration sensor input. The switching module leverages the existing illuminance sensor and processor, combining vibration detection with existing image processing capabilities. This multi-functional approach allows the system to adapt to different lighting and vibration conditions without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing device includes an optical lens, an imaging unit, a filter module, an infrared cut-off filter, a processing unit and a switching module. The filter module is located between the optical lens and the imaging unit. The infrared cut-off filter is provided on the filter module. The processing unit includes a first general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pin and a second GPIO pin. The switching module is coupled to the first GPIO pin and the second GPIO pin. When a first GPIO signal is in a first value, the switching module drives the filter module to move the infrared cut-off filter to an imaging optical path between the imaging unit and the optical lens. When a second GPIO signal is in the first value, the switching module drives the filter module to move the infrared cut-off filter away from the imaging optical path.