Refrigerator Ambient Light Sensing for Stable Interior Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators with imaging systems struggle with image capture and analysis due to variations in ambient light conditions around the refrigerator.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator system equipped with an ambient light sensor, a light source, cameras, and a computing device that adjusts the light source and camera settings based on ambient light parameters to optimize image capture and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera is used to capture images in the refrigerator, then inventory tracking and object identification can be performed, but image quality deteriorates due to variations in ambient light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an ambient light sensor to continuously monitor lighting conditions and feeds this information back to the control unit, which automatically adjusts camera settings (exposure, aperture, shutter speed) to maintain optimal image quality despite varying ambient light levels
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically changes camera parameters such as exposure time, aperture size, and ISO sensitivity based on the ambient light sensor readings, allowing the camera to adapt its characteristics to match the current lighting environment
2Ease of operation
If the door is kept open for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but light conditions inside the refrigerator become unstable affecting image capture
Solution Approach 1:
The light sensor detects ambient light changes before they significantly affect image quality, and the control unit preemptively adjusts camera settings or activates the interior light to ensure stable lighting conditions during door-open periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts camera exposure settings in real-time based on changing light conditions caused by door movement, allowing the camera to adapt to transient lighting changes without requiring the door to be kept closed
3Adaptability or versatility
If ambient light sensor and light source are added to the refrigerator, then image quality and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes data from the light sensor, controls camera settings, and manages the interior light source, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated control components and minimizing 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
Enhances the quality of image capture and analysis by adapting to varying light conditions, improving the accuracy of inventory tracking and object identification within the refrigerator.
Implementation Method 1
An ambient light sensor is mounted to the main body or to the door... The at least one computing device is configured to determine an ambient light parameter outside of the main body based on signals received from the ambient light sensor
Implementation Method 2
A light source is mounted to the main body or to the door... The light source is configured to illuminate the refrigerated enclosure when the door is in the open position
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator system includes a main body and a door mounted to and movable with respect to the main body, an ambient light sensor, a light source, at least one camera positioned to have a field of view that includes an entrance opening leading to the at least one storage compartment, and at least one computing device in operable connection with the at least one camera, the ambient light sensor, and the light source. The at least one computing device is configured to determine an ambient light parameter outside of the main body based on signals received from the ambient light sensor, and to control at least one of the light source and the at least one camera based on the ambient light parameter that has been determined