Wearable Infrared Imaging Module Integrated Into Protective Shield
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal imaging devices are bulky, heavy, and unsuitable for hazardous environments due to field of view discrepancies and misalignment issues, and conventional displays are unwieldy and obstructive, making it difficult for users to view images in hazardous conditions.
Innovation Solution
A wearable apparatus with an integrated infrared imaging module, projector, and processor that projects a user-viewable thermal image onto a shield, protecting both the user's face and the device components from external hazards, allowing for a compact and aligned thermal imaging system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional infrared cameras are used, then thermal imaging capability is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the infrared camera, display screen, and protective housing into a single integrated wearable device. The infrared camera and display are merged within the same housing structure, eliminating the need for separate external devices. This integration reduces overall system weight while maintaining thermal imaging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The display screen is positioned within the housing in a nested configuration where the infrared camera can project images onto the display. The display is integrated into the housing structure itself, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes weight while providing both protection and viewing capability.
2Ease of operation
If conventional displays are mounted externally on the mask, then image viewing is enabled, but the center of gravity shifts forward causing user fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The display is merged with the mask housing structure, positioned internally rather than externally mounted. This integration relocates the display weight to the natural center of gravity of the mask, preventing forward shift and reducing user fatigue while maintaining image viewing capability.
3Ease of operation
If conventional displays are provided within the mask, then image viewing is enabled, but the display obstructs the user's view of the surrounding environment
Solution Approach 1:
The display screen is made movable or adjustable within the housing, allowing the user to dynamically reposition it as needed. This dynamic positioning enables the display to be moved out of the user's line of sight when not in use, eliminating view obstruction while maintaining image viewing capability when required.
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 users to view thermal images in hazardous environments without the bulk and weight of external cameras and displays, providing a clear and aligned view of their surroundings while protecting both the user and the device components.
Implementation Method 1
one or more infrared imaging modules, a projector, a processor
Implementation Method 2
a projector, a processor, and a communication module for projecting a user-viewable thermal image onto a surface of the shield
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Various techniques are disclosed for providing a wearable apparatus having an integrated infrared imaging module. In one example, a wearable apparatus implemented as a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) may include a shield to protect a user from an external environment, one or more infrared imaging modules, a projector, a processor, and a communication module for projecting a user-viewable thermal image onto a surface of the shield. Such infrared imaging modules may be positioned internal to the SCBA for protection from a hazardous external environment. In another example, a wearable apparatus implemented as a welding mask may include one or more infrared imaging modules, a projector, a processor, and a communication module, so as to project a user-viewable thermal image onto a surface of a shield of the welding mask, while at the same time protecting these components and the welder's face from a harsh welding environment.