Optical Dimmer Array for Irreversible Image Privacy Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing methods for privacy protection, such as blurring or mosaic, can be reversed by engineering, failing to provide effective privacy safeguards.
Innovation Solution
An image acquisition device with a dimmer comprising independently controllable dimming blocks, including electrochromic or liquid crystal layers, modulates light intensity before image conversion, ensuring privacy by direct physical alteration rather than algorithmic restoration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If algorithmic processing is used to blur or obscure images for privacy protection, then privacy protection is achieved, but the protection can be reversed through reverse engineering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by modulating the optical signal during the image acquisition process itself, before the image is fully captured and stored. The dimmer module adjusts the intensity of light reaching the optical sensor in real-time, embedding privacy protection directly into the acquisition phase rather than applying post-processing algorithms that can be reversed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces software-based algorithmic processing with a physical/optical mechanism. Instead of using digital image processing techniques that manipulate pixel data, the invention uses a dimmer module with electrochromic or liquid crystal materials that physically modulate the optical signal at the hardware level, making the privacy protection irreversible and more reliable.
2Ease of manufacture
If digital image processing techniques are used to protect privacy, then processing can be performed, but the processed images can be restored by reverse engineering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by modulating the optical signal during the image acquisition process itself, before the image is fully captured and stored. The dimmer module adjusts the intensity of light reaching the optical sensor in real-time, embedding privacy protection directly into the acquisition phase rather than applying post-processing algorithms that can be reversed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces software-based algorithmic processing with a physical/optical mechanism. Instead of using digital image processing techniques that manipulate pixel data, the invention uses a dimmer module with electrochromic or liquid crystal materials that physically modulate the optical signal at the hardware level, making the privacy protection irreversible and more reliable.
3Reliability
If a dimmer module is used to modulate optical signal intensity during acquisition, then privacy protection becomes irreversible and dynamic range is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the dimmer module to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same dimming blocks that control optical signal intensity for privacy protection also function as exposure control elements, enabling the device to handle high dynamic range scenes without requiring separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing materials (electrochromic or liquid crystal) that can dynamically change their optical properties in response to electrical signals. By adjusting the voltage applied to these materials, the transmittance of light can be precisely controlled, enabling both privacy protection and exposure control through parameter modulation rather than structural complexity.
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
The solution provides robust privacy protection by physically altering captured images, preventing reverse engineering and enhancing dynamic range control, thus securing sensitive information.
Implementation Method 1
The optical sensor converts optical signal L into image signal
Implementation Method 2
Each dimming block 31 modulates the intensity of light passing through one corresponding block
Data Source
AI summary
An image acquisition device includes an optical sensor and a dimmer. The optical sensor includes a photosensitive area configured to convert optical signal into image signal. The dimmer is on a side of the optical sensor that receives the optical signal. The dimmer completely covers the photosensitive area. The dimmer is configured for modulating intensity of the optical signal projected onto the optical sensor. The dimmer includes dimming blocks. Each dimming block is configured for modulating intensity of light projected onto a portion of the photosensitive area. An electronic device and an image acquisition method are also provided.