Thermal Camera Error Correction Unit for Sensor Drift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal imaging cameras face challenges in accurately measuring object temperatures due to changes in thermal image sensor sensitivity over time, distance, and environmental conditions, requiring frequent replacement or high-performance sensors, which increases costs and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An error correction unit with a rotatable arm member, heating element holder, and temperature sensor is integrated into the thermal imaging camera system, allowing for accurate temperature measurement correction by capturing and analyzing thermal images of a heating element at different times to adjust for sensor sensitivity changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional thermal image sensor is used, then the device cost is low and structure is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates over time due to sensitivity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by periodically capturing thermal images of a reference object with known temperature characteristics, comparing the measured temperature against the reference value, and automatically calculating correction values to compensate for sensor sensitivity drift. This closed-loop feedback system maintains measurement accuracy without requiring sensor replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by introducing a periodic self-test mode where the thermal sensor captures images of a reference object at different time points. By analyzing the temperature variation of the reference object over time, the system dynamically adjusts the measurement parameters and applies correction factors to maintain accuracy despite sensor degradation.
2Measurement precision
If high-performance thermal image sensors are used, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference object as an intermediary element that mediates between the thermal sensor and the measurement target. This reference object serves as a stable temperature benchmark, allowing the system to indirectly monitor and correct sensor performance without requiring complex calibration equipment or high-performance sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the measurement scenario by using a reference object that mimics the thermal characteristics of actual targets. By periodically measuring this reference copy and comparing results, the system can detect sensor drift and apply corrections to maintain accuracy without needing expensive high-performance sensors.
3Measurement precision
If thermal image sensors are replaced frequently, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the loss of time and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service maintenance mechanism where the thermal imaging device automatically performs its own calibration by periodically measuring a reference object and computing correction values. This self-calibration capability eliminates the need for frequent manual maintenance and sensor replacement, saving time and reducing operational disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calibration actions by establishing a baseline measurement of the reference object at the beginning of operation. This preliminary action creates a reference point that enables ongoing automatic corrections, preventing the accumulation of measurement errors and avoiding the need for frequent maintenance interventions.
4Measurement precision
If automatic tracking and correction functions are added, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the thermal imaging device multi-functional by combining the primary measurement function with an integrated self-calibration function. The same thermal sensor and processing unit used for normal operation are also employed for periodic reference measurements and automatic correction, eliminating the need for separate dedicated calibration hardware and reducing 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
This solution enables accurate body temperature detection of moving objects without the need for expensive high-resolution sensors or periodic maintenance, effectively correcting temperature measurement errors caused by sensor degradation and environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element fixed to the heating element holder
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of the heating element
Implementation Method 3
A thermal imaging camera is a device that detects infrared rays emitted from an object and expresses the measurements with various colors that depend on temperatures
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an error correction unit enabling constant accurate measurement of a moving object by correcting an error attributable to a change in sensitivity of a thermal image sensor, a change in distance between a thermal image sensor and an object, or an ambient environment. Further disclosed is an object temperature detection device equipped with the same. The error correction unit includes a first arm member rotatably coupled to a thermal imaging camera unit, a heating element holder rotatably coupled to the first arm member, the heating element fixed to the heating element holder, and a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of the heating element. The heating element is positioned within an angle of view of the thermal imaging camera unit through rotational motion of the first arm member and the heating element holder. The temperature sensor measures the temperature of the heating element at a first time and a second time different from the first time so that the controller can use a temperature change value of the heating element. Data of the temperatures of the heating element, which are measured respectively at the first time and the second time, are transmitted to the controller.