Refrigerator Camera Module with Marking-Based Image Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigeration devices with built-in cameras struggle to compare images taken from different angles due to distortion, making it difficult to maintain a uniform image area for accurate analysis.
Innovation Solution
A refrigeration device equipped with a camera module and processing device that uses markings inside the container to transform digital images, allowing for the definition of a constant image area, which can be compared across varying angles by removing edge areas, adjusting image size, resolution, and applying filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If images are recorded from different viewing angles to capture the inner container, then the coverage area is improved, but the image distortion and non-uniformity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces markings as an intermediary reference system within the inner container. These markings serve as a mediator between the camera's varying perspectives and the need for uniform image representation. By detecting and using these fixed markings as reference points, the system can correct for angular variations and maintain consistent image geometry across different viewing angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms images by changing geometric parameters based on the detected markings. The processing device adjusts image coordinates, scales, and orientations to compensate for the viewing angle variations. This parameter transformation converts distorted images from different angles into a standardized reference frame, resolving the uniformity issue while preserving the expanded coverage area.
2Manufacturing precision
If the camera module is fixed to capture a specific area, then the image uniformity is maintained, but the ability to capture from different angles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a reference copy of the inner container's geometric structure through the markings system. Instead of physically moving or adjusting the camera, the system captures images from various angles and then digitally remaps them to match the reference geometry defined by the markings. This copying approach allows versatile angle capture while maintaining uniformity through digital transformation.
3Area of stationary object
If the camera module rotates to capture different areas, then the coverage area is improved, but the image distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The markings serve as an intermediary reference frame that decouples the camera's physical rotation from the logical image coordinate system. By detecting the markings' positions and orientations in each rotated image, the system can calculate transformation parameters that accurately map the distorted rotated view back to the correct geometric representation, thus maintaining measurement precision despite camera rotation.
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
Enables the comparison of images taken from different angles by maintaining a uniform image area, improving image analysis accuracy and standardizing resolution, while compensating for camera rotation and distortion.
Implementation Method 1
the markings are retroreflectors. This achieves the technical advantage, for example, that the markings in the recording of the first digital image can be identified in a particularly simple manner.
Implementation Method 2
the refrigeration device comprises an illumination device which is arranged in the vicinity of the camera module. This achieves the technical advantage, for example, that the retroreflectors throw the light into the camera module.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a refrigerating device (100) with a camera module for capturing a first digital image with markings (117) in the interior of the refrigerating device (100). The refrigerating device (100) comprises a processing device (107) which is designed to convert the first digital image into a second digital image on the basis of the captured markings (117).