Miniaturized Solar Tracker Using Light Mask and Image Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sundials are limited by their passive nature, requiring human visual inspection and being restricted to specific latitudes and orientations, which hinders miniaturization, digital data logging, and real-time computer-based analysis or remote operation for tracking the apparent motion of the sun.
Innovation Solution
A miniaturized apparatus comprising a wafer-thin light mask with markings on both surfaces and a pixilated image sensor, along with an image processing unit, allows for time, latitude, and date measurements by encoding information on the light mask and using image processing to analyze the relative position of light and dark spots, enabling direct-to-digital data logging and operation at any latitude without directional alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional sundials use passive components with human visual inspection, then the apparatus can be simple in structure, but the apparatus cannot be miniaturized and cannot perform digital data logging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical sundial system with an active electronic system using an image sensor to detect light patterns and an image processing unit to analyze the data. This substitution enables digital data logging and automated time measurement while maintaining the core functionality of solar tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the sundial's shadow-casting function by using a light mask with apertures that projects light patterns onto an image sensor. This optical copy allows the system to capture and digitally process solar position information without requiring physical shadow observation.
2Ease of operation
If conventional sundials are designed for unassisted human vision, then the apparatus can be easily operated, but the apparatus cannot be miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces human visual inspection with an electronic image sensor and processing unit. This substitution removes the constraint of human vision requirements, allowing the apparatus to be miniaturized while maintaining ease of operation through automated digital output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from macro-scale visual observation to micro-scale optical patterns by projecting light through apertures onto a miniaturized image sensor. This dimensional change allows the system to function at a much smaller scale while preserving measurement capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional sundials use fixed gnomon and dial plate orientation, then the apparatus can be simple to manufacture, but the apparatus is limited to specific latitudes and directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fixed orientation system with a dynamic imaging system that can capture light patterns from various angles. The image sensor and processing unit adapt to different latitudes and orientations by analyzing the position and shape of projected light patterns, eliminating the need for fixed mechanical alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal solar tracking system that can operate at any latitude and orientation by using computational image analysis instead of location-specific mechanical configurations. The same apparatus adapts to different environments through software-based pattern recognition.
4Ease of operation
If conventional sundials require directional alignment to cardinal points, then the apparatus can be simple to set up, but the apparatus cannot operate without precise orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical orientation requirement with an optical-imaging system that determines direction through pattern analysis. The image processing unit calculates solar position and orientation from the captured light patterns, eliminating the need for pre-alignment to cardinal points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the apparatus to automatically determine its own orientation and location by analyzing the light patterns it captures. The system self-calibrates and adapts to its environment without requiring external alignment or user input about geographic orientation.
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 apparatus achieves compact size, remote operation, and real-time data analysis, allowing for accurate solar tracking and time measurement across various latitudes without the need for human visual inspection or directional alignment.
Implementation Method 1
Transmitted sunlight through the light mask
Implementation Method 2
the relative position of light and dark spots
Implementation Method 3
a pixilated image sensor... allows the apparatus to make time, latitude, direction, and date measurements
Data Source
AI summary
A miniaturized apparatus for tracking the apparent motion of the sun comprising a light mask, a pixilated image sensor, and an image processing unit, wherein sunlight transmitted through the light mask allows the miniaturized apparatus to make time, latitude, direction, and date measurements. A method of making a miniaturized apparatus for tracking the apparent motion of the sun comprising the steps of providing a light mask, providing a pixilated image sensor, providing an image processing unit, and resulting in a miniaturized apparatus for tracking the apparent motion of the sun.