Removable Key and Fill Light System for Video Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video communication devices, such as laptops with cameras, face challenges in producing high-quality images due to poor ambient lighting and low camera sensitivity, leading to poor signal-to-noise ratio, unnatural skin tones, and unwanted shadows.
Innovation Solution
A light source system comprising a base with a fill light and a key light, both of which are removably attached to the device via an articulating arm, utilizing solid-state lamps of multiple colors to provide even illumination and accentuate facial features, while matching ambient color temperature to reduce noise and enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ambient lighting is poor and camera sensitivity is low, then image quality deteriorates with poor signal-to-noise ratio and unnatural skin tones, but increasing camera sensitivity amplifies noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing illumination before the camera captures the image. The light source is positioned to pre-illuminate the subject area, ensuring that when the camera takes the picture, there is already sufficient light present. This eliminates the need to increase camera sensitivity, which would otherwise amplify noise, while still achieving high image quality with natural skin tones and good signal-to-noise ratio.
2Measurement precision
If a light source is added to improve illumination, then image quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source with the camera device by positioning it adjacent to the camera lens and integrating it into the same housing structure. This combining approach allows the illumination function to be added without creating a separate standalone device, thereby improving image quality while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity. The integrated design enables coordinated operation between the light source and camera.
3Measurement precision
If multiple lights are used to provide even illumination and accentuate features, then image quality improves, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the light source adjustable in its illumination characteristics. The ability to adjust color temperature and intensity allows the system to optimize power consumption based on lighting conditions. For example, the system can use lower intensity or warmer color temperatures in certain situations, reducing power usage while still achieving acceptable image quality. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to balance between image quality improvement and power consumption.
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 light source system improves image quality by reducing artificial gain, minimizing greenish or bluish shadows, and providing uniform skin tones, resulting in better visual communication with enhanced facial feature rendering.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting system includes a base and a plurality of first lamps fastened to the base, where the plurality of first lamps include a plurality of solid state light lamps of a plurality of colors
Data Source
AI summary
A light source and lighting system for video communication are provided. A base capable of being removably attached to a video communication device is provided. A fill light attached to the base and a key light connected to the base are also provided.