Optical Speckle Detection Using Absorption-Band Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera-based assistance systems in vehicles face issues with inaccurate image capture due to dirt, water droplets, or other obstructions on optical elements, which can lead to safety hazards like collisions or pedestrian strikes, as previous detection methods are not suitable for lenses used in image capturing devices that require unobstructed light at any time.
Innovation Solution
A speckle detection system that emits a light beam towards the optical element and uses light receivers to detect reflections from speckles, employing light-emitting diodes with wavelengths centered on atmospheric absorption bands to improve detection accuracy and reduce ambient light interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light sources emit light beam towards the optical element to detect speckles, then detection capability is improved, but ambient light interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting specific wavelength ranges for the light sources that correspond to atmospheric absorption bands. This causes ambient light at these wavelengths to be naturally attenuated, reducing interference while maintaining effective detection signal strength. The light receivers are tuned to detect reflections at these specific wavelengths, optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio for speckle detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of ambient light into a benefit by exploiting atmospheric absorption characteristics. Wavelengths where the atmosphere strongly absorbs light are chosen for detection, as these same wavelengths experience minimal ambient light interference. What would normally be considered a limitation (atmospheric absorption) becomes an advantage for reducing background noise and improving detection accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If detection systems are added to image capturing devices, then speckle detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the speckle detection functionality with the existing image capturing device by integrating light sources and light receivers into the same housing. The light sources are positioned to illuminate the optical element from within the device, and the light receivers detect reflections using the same optical path. This combined approach eliminates the need for separate external detection systems while maintaining effective speckle monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed to serve multiple functions: it captures images for assistance systems while simultaneously detecting speckles on its own optical elements. The light sources and receivers are integrated into the device housing, allowing the device to monitor its own optical element condition without requiring additional dedicated detection equipment, thereby reducing overall system 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 system effectively detects speckles on optical elements, ensuring clear image capture and enhancing safety by reducing false positives and improving image quality, thereby preventing potential accidents.
Implementation Method 1
The system comprises one or more light sources configured to emit a light beam towards the optical element
Implementation Method 2
The optical element being configured to reflect light from the light sources when speckles are located on the surface of the optical element
Implementation Method 3
one or more light receivers configured to receive the light beam reflected by the optical element such that speckles on the surface of the optical element are detected
Implementation Method 4
employing light-emitting diodes with wavelengths centered on atmospheric absorption bands to improve detection accuracy and reduce ambient light interference
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a speckles detection system for detecting one or more speckles on a surface of an optical element of an image capturing device. The system comprises: one or more light sources configured to emit a light beam towards the optical element, the optical element being configured to reflect light from the light sources when speckles are located on the surface of the optical element. The system further comprises one or more light receivers configured to receive the light beam reflected by the optical elements such that speckles on the surface of the optical elements are detected. Methods for detecting one or more speckles on a surface of an optical element of an image capturing device are also provided.