Multiple Band Imager Frequency Shifter for Dual Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging systems for vehicles are limited in their ability to effectively capture both thermal and non-thermal images simultaneously using a single imager, as they often require separate sensors or complex conversion methods, which can lead to reduced resolution and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A multiple band imager system that includes a focusing structure and an imager with a frequency shifter, where the frequency shifter shifts far infrared frequencies to higher frequencies only for a subset of pixels, allowing for separate thermal and non-thermal image generation, using a regular recurring pattern of frequency-shifting elements across the imager's surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate thermal and optical cameras are used, then thermal imaging capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines thermal and optical imaging capabilities into a single sensor array by integrating a frequency shifter that converts far infrared frequencies to visible frequencies, allowing one sensor to perform both thermal and optical imaging functions simultaneously, thereby reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining dual-band imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system achieves multi-functionality by enabling a single sensor array to detect both thermal radiation (far infrared) and visible light through the frequency shifting mechanism, making the sensor universal for both thermal and optical imaging applications without requiring separate specialized sensors
2Reliability
If frequency shifting is applied to all pixels, then complete thermal image coverage is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies frequency-shifting elements only to a proper subset of pixels rather than all pixels, creating local quality differentiation where selected pixels handle thermal detection while others maintain optical sensing capability, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving sufficient thermal image coverage through the recurring pattern
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor array is segmented into different functional regions with frequency-shifting elements distributed in a regular recurring pattern across a proper subset of pixels, allowing thermal and optical imaging functions to be spatially separated and optimized independently within the same sensor structure
3Device complexity
If a single imager is used for both thermal and non-thermal imaging, then device complexity is reduced, but image separation and resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency shifter acts as an intermediary device that converts thermal radiation frequencies to visible frequencies before detection, enabling a single imager to distinguish between thermal and non-thermal images by detecting the frequency-shifted signals from the subset of pixels, thereby maintaining high image separation quality while using only one imager
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 the generation of high-resolution thermal and non-thermal images from a single imager, improving image separation and processing efficiency, and allowing for enhanced vehicle safety features like hazard detection and lane following guidance.
Implementation Method 1
a frequency shifter disposed between said focusing structure and said imager... said elements shifting the far infrared frequencies from said focused light to higher frequencies
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for imaging a scene, comprising a focusing structure for focusing light emanating from a scene on an imaging subsystem, and an imaging subsystem. The imaging subsystem includes an imager, disposed within the optical path of the focusing structure, having an array of pixels sensitive to light at frequencies higher than far infrared frequencies, and a frequency shifter disposed between the lens element and the imager. The frequency shifter includes an array of frequency-shifting elements disposed over a subset of the array of pixels, the elements shifting the far infrared frequencies from the focused light to higher frequencies and transmitting the resulting signals to the subset of the array of pixels.