Optical Charge Pulse for Sensor Dark Current Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical imaging systems face issues with dark current discharge in sensors during the 'off' periods, leading to non-uniform image sensitivity and artifacts, particularly in navigation systems where continuous illumination is not feasible due to high power consumption.
Innovation Solution
An optical charge pulse is applied to the sensor prior to image acquisitions, compensating for dark current discharge by delaying the trigger for image processing after the optical source is turned on, allowing the sensor to stabilize before data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the optical source is turned off during non-use periods, then power consumption is reduced, but dark current discharge causes non-uniform image sensitivity and artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing an optical charge pulse to the sensor before the actual image acquisition occurs. This pre-charging of the sensor with optical energy compensates for the dark current discharge that occurs during the off-period, ensuring uniform sensitivity when illumination resumes without requiring continuous power consumption
2Reliability
If continuous illumination is used, then dark current discharge is avoided and image sensitivity is maintained, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using intermittent illumination with the optical source turned on only during brief acquisition periods followed by off-periods. The dark current compensation through optical charge pulses enables this periodic operation without the continuous power consumption that would otherwise be required to maintain sensor sensitivity
3Speed
If image acquisitions are triggered immediately when the optical source is turned on, then response time is reduced, but dark current discharge causes cursor jumps in navigation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing the optical charge pulse to the sensor immediately when the optical source is turned on, before triggering the actual image acquisition. This pre-compensation approach maintains fast response time while preventing the cursor jumps that would occur if acquisition were triggered immediately without compensation
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 the impact of dark current discharge, maintaining image sensitivity and preventing cursor jumps in navigation systems while minimizing power consumption by allowing the optical source to be turned off during non-use periods.
Implementation Method 1
an optical source including one or more LEDs or other emitters illuminates a target
Implementation Method 2
The sensor detects reflected, scattered or transmitted light from the illuminated target
Implementation Method 3
The sensor detects reflected, scattered or transmitted light from the illuminated target
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for timing image acquisitions provide an optical charge pulse to a sensor within an optical imaging system prior to image acquisitions by the optical imaging system. This optical charge pulse compensates for dark current discharge in the sensor.