Visible-Infrared Imaging With Differential Exposure Combination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses that capture both visible and invisible light bands face challenges due to differing exposure requirements and high costs associated with separate imaging units for each wavelength.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with dual imaging units for visible and invisible light, controlled by a processor to calculate and adjust exposure times, and combine images to achieve optimal exposure levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate imaging units are used for each wavelength to achieve appropriate exposure for each spectral characteristic, then image quality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging units (first imaging unit for visible light and second imaging unit for infrared light) into a single integrated imaging device. This merging approach allows the system to capture multiple wavelength bands simultaneously while maintaining appropriate exposure for each spectral characteristic, thereby improving image quality without proportionally increasing device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both visible light and infrared imaging capabilities in a single unit. The processor controls both imaging units to perform different imaging functions (visible light imaging and infrared imaging) simultaneously, allowing the device to serve multiple purposes and reducing the need for separate dedicated imaging apparatuses.
2Measurement precision
If separate imaging units are used for each wavelength, then appropriate exposure for each spectral characteristic is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the first imaging unit (visible light) and second imaging unit (infrared light) into a single integrated device, the patent reduces the overall cost compared to using completely separate imaging apparatuses. The shared housing, processor, and control systems lower manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to achieve appropriate exposure for each spectral characteristic through independent control of each imaging unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional imaging device performs both visible light and infrared imaging functions using a single manufactured unit, reducing the total number of components that need to be produced and assembled. This universality approach lowers manufacturing costs and simplifies production while preserving the capability to optimize exposure parameters for each specific wavelength band.
3Measurement precision
If mechanical shutters are individually controlled for each wavelength, then suitable exposure level is acquired, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor receives image signals from both imaging units and controls the shutters based on feedback from the captured images. The system adjusts exposure parameters dynamically by monitoring the image signals and modifying shutter control accordingly, enabling precise exposure control for each wavelength band while using a centralized control approach rather than independent complex control systems for each unit.
Solution Approach 2:
A single processor unit performs the control function for both the first imaging unit (visible light) and second imaging unit (infrared light), consolidating control complexity into one multi-functional control system. This universal processor handles different imaging functions and shutter control operations, reducing the overall control complexity compared to having separate dedicated control systems for each wavelength band.
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 cost-effective capture of images with appropriate exposure for each spectral characteristic, allowing for simultaneous generation and combination of visible and invisible light images.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging device having a first imaging unit configured to generate an image having a first spectral characteristic and a second imaging unit configured to generate an image having a second spectral characteristic
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus comprising: an imaging device having a first imaging unit configured to generate an image having a first spectral characteristic and a second imaging unit configured to generate an image having a second spectral characteristic, a calculation unit configured to calculate a first exposure time appropriate for an image having the first spectral characteristic and a second exposure time appropriate for an image having the second spectral characteristic, a control unit configured to, in a case where the first exposure time is longer than the second exposure time, perform first image capture with the second exposure time to generate a first image having the first spectral characteristic and a second image having the second spectral characteristic, and perform second imaging with an exposure time corresponding to a difference between the first exposure time and the second exposure time to generate a third image having the first spectral characteristic, and a combining unit configured to combine the first image and the third image to generate a combined image.