See-Through Camera With RF Blind-Spot Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems have blind spots due to obstacles, preventing the detection of moving objects or animals that suddenly emerge, which can lead to safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A see-through camera apparatus that integrates a camera unit, RF sensor unit, and image processor to generate a composite image by overlapping optical and RF images, allowing detection of objects obscured by obstacles using RF signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are used to monitor all directions, then the coverage area is improved, but blind spots due to obstacles cannot be eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cameras positioned at different locations (front, rear, left, right) to capture images from various angles. These images are then merged through image processing to create a composite view that eliminates blind spots caused by obstacles, allowing comprehensive monitoring coverage while maintaining detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional individual camera views to a three-dimensional composite perspective by integrating images from multiple cameras. This dimensional synthesis allows the system to see around obstacles by combining frontal, rear, and lateral views into a unified spatial representation that reveals objects hidden behind obstacles.
2Measurement precision
If RF sensor unit is added to detect blind spot objects, then detection capability in blind spots is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both optical imaging and RF-based blind spot detection. The same camera apparatus processes both visible light images and RF signal-derived images, eliminating the need for separate dedicated RF sensing hardware and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses image processing algorithms as an intermediary to translate RF sensor data into visual representations that can be integrated with camera images. This intermediary processing layer allows seamless fusion of optical and RF data streams, enabling the system to detect blind spot objects without requiring complex hardware integration.
3Loss of information
If composite image is generated by overlapping optical and RF images, then comprehensive view of surroundings is improved, but image processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of RF-detected blind spot objects and overlays it onto the optical image. This copying approach allows the composite image to convey complete surrounding information by superimposing detected object positions and patterns onto the visual field, enabling comprehensive situational awareness through relatively simple image layering operations.
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 detection and monitoring of objects in blind spots, enhancing safety by providing a comprehensive view of the surroundings, reducing the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
an RF signal processing unit configured to extract the RF received signal reflected from the blind spot-object, among signals received through the antenna unit
Data Source
AI summary
A see-through camera apparatus includes a camera unit configured to acquire a first image of a scene, an RF sensor unit configured to receive an RF received signal and obtain a second image of the scene corresponding to a blind spot-object obscured by an obstacle based on the RF received signal, and an image processor configured to generate a third image based on the first image and the second image.