Time-Division Control for Multi-Source Imaging Interference

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In a scenario where multiple imaging devices are used as monitoring cameras, the interference of auxiliary light from multiple light sources complicates image capture, leading to issues like flicker and overexposure due to unsynchronized light emission.

Innovation Solution

A control system that synchronizes the light emission of auxiliary light sources in a time-division manner, ensuring each imaging device captures images only when its associated light source is emitting, thereby preventing interference and maintaining optimal exposure control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If multiple light sources emit auxiliary light simultaneously, then the imaging environment is enhanced, but light interference occurs causing flicker and overexposure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauxiliary light emissionVSAvoidlight interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements time-division multiplexed control where multiple light sources emit auxiliary light in alternating periodic intervals rather than simultaneously. Each light source is controlled to emit light during specific time slots, creating a periodic emission pattern that eliminates overlapping light interference while maintaining continuous imaging capability across multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple imaging devices operate independently, then device versatility is maintained, but synchronization control becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent device operationVSAvoidsynchronization control
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the operation of multiple imaging devices into distinct time slots, where each device operates independently during its assigned interval. This temporal segmentation allows each device to maintain its independent functionality and imaging parameters while the overall system achieves synchronization through the structured time-division framework, reducing the complexity of real-time coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3588933B1Control device, control method, and program
Publication Date: 2022.03.30 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP3588933B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3588933B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3588933B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

[Object] To propose a control device, a control method, and a program through which it is possible to implement a more suitable imaging environment even under a situation in which auxiliary light is emitted from a plurality of light sources. [Solution] The control device includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire a light emission state of a first light source; and a control unit configured to control an operation of light emission of a second light source that is different from the first light source according to the acquired light emission state of the first light source.