Photometric Device Dynamic Accumulation Control Saturation Avoidance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing photometric devices face challenges in determining the appropriate accumulation control method between peak and average value controls when the output of a photometric sensor approaches saturation, especially in situations with limited time for data acquisition, leading to potential signal saturation and suboptimal luminance information retrieval.

Innovation Solution

A photometric device that dynamically switches between accumulation control based on the average and maximum values of the sensor output, adjusting control methods based on saturation levels and recent output stability, with additional features like region-based output analysis and correction mechanisms to manage saturation and improve luminance calculations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If accumulation control is performed based on the maximum value to avoid saturation, then signal saturation is reduced, but the acquisition time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal saturation avoidanceVSAvoidacquisition time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between two accumulation control methods (maximum-value-based and average-value-based) depending on real-time sensor output conditions. The control method is not fixed but adapts based on whether the sensor output approaches saturation levels, allowing the system to optimize between accuracy and speed dynamically

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the control parameter from a fixed approach to a conditional approach. Based on the sensor output value relative to saturation level, the system selects different accumulation control strategies (maximum-value-based when near saturation, average-value-based when safe), thereby optimizing the balance between preventing saturation and maintaining fast acquisition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If accumulation control is performed based on the average value to speed up acquisition, then productivity increases, but signal saturation may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveacquisition speedVSAvoidsignal saturation risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the sensor output and uses feedback to determine whether the output is approaching the saturation level. Based on this feedback, the control method is switched accordingly - using average-value-based control when safe and maximum-value-based control when saturation is detected, thus preventing saturation while maintaining high acquisition speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic control method selection based on real-time sensor conditions. The system transitions between different accumulation control strategies depending on the current output level, ensuring both fast acquisition and saturation avoidance through adaptive decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If only one accumulation control method is used to simplify the control system, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to handle different saturation conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system simplicityVSAvoidsaturation condition handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic control system that automatically selects between two accumulation control methods based on real-time sensor output conditions. The control logic switches between maximum-value-based and average-value-based methods depending on whether the sensor output approaches saturation levels, enabling the system to handle different saturation conditions adaptably

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes its control parameter dynamically based on the sensor output state. When the output is close to saturation, the system switches to maximum-value-based control; when the output is safe, it uses average-value-based control. This parameter change strategy enables versatile saturation handling without requiring overly complex manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8670044B2Photometric device with accumulation control
Publication Date: 2014.03.11 NIKON CORP
  • US8670044B2 patent drawing
  • US8670044B2 patent drawing
  • US8670044B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A photometric device includes a storage-type photometric sensor, a first control means that performs accumulation control on the photometric sensor based upon an average value of an output of the photometric sensor, a second control means that performs accumulation control on the photometric sensor based upon a maximum value of the output of the photometric sensor, and an accumulation control means that controls the second control means to perform next accumulation control, if the maximum value of the output of the photometric sensor on which the accumulation control is performed by the first control means exceeds a saturation output level of the photometric sensor, and controls the first control means to perform next accumulation control, if the maximum value of the output of the photometric sensor does not exceed the saturation output level of the photometric sensor.