US20050013002A1 - Glare blocking device - Google Patents
Glare blocking device Download PDFInfo
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- US20050013002A1 US20050013002A1 US10/863,011 US86301104A US2005013002A1 US 20050013002 A1 US20050013002 A1 US 20050013002A1 US 86301104 A US86301104 A US 86301104A US 2005013002 A1 US2005013002 A1 US 2005013002A1
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- Prior art keywords
- optical element
- light rays
- intensity
- illumination source
- pixels
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J3/00—Antiglare equipment associated with windows or windscreens; Sun visors for vehicles
- B60J3/02—Antiglare equipment associated with windows or windscreens; Sun visors for vehicles adjustable in position
- B60J3/0204—Sun visors
- B60J3/0208—Sun visors combined with auxiliary visor
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F9/00—Methods or devices for treatment of the eyes; Devices for putting-in contact lenses; Devices to correct squinting; Apparatus to guide the blind; Protective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
- A61F9/04—Eye-masks ; Devices to be worn on the face, not intended for looking through; Eye-pads for sunbathing
- A61F9/06—Masks, shields or hoods for welders
- A61F9/065—Masks, shields or hoods for welders use of particular optical filters
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C7/00—Optical parts
- G02C7/10—Filters, e.g. for facilitating adaptation of the eyes to the dark; Sunglasses
- G02C7/101—Filters, e.g. for facilitating adaptation of the eyes to the dark; Sunglasses having an electro-optical light valve
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to glare blocking device, and particularly to an integrated device that selectively reduces the intensity of incident light as is propagated toward an optical element.
- the present invention provides an apparatus for automatically reducing glare produced from a spatial scene by reducing the intensity of light rays propagating from points in the three-dimensional spatial scene towards an optical element having a field of view.
- the apparatus includes an electro-optical element having an optically transparent surface including a plurality of electrically addressable pixels through which the field of view of the optical element passes. Each pixel has a controllable light transmittance for selectively reducing the intensity of incident light rays propagating from one or more points in the spatial scene, through the pixel, then towards the optical element.
- the apparatus also includes an image acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of the spatial scene within the field of view of the optical element.
- a processor is also provided for processing the one or more acquired images and determining at which pixels the light transmittance is to be actively controlled in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays by a selected amount before reaching the optical element. Further, a control is provided for actively controlling the light transmittance of the determined pixels so that after incident light rays propagate through the determined pixels, the incident light rays propagate towards the optical element with an intensity reduced by the selected amount, so that glare produced from the spatial scene is automatically reduced.
- a power supply may be integrated within the apparatus for providing electrical power to the image acquisition device, the processor, and control.
- FIG. 1 shows a general embodiment of the glare blocking device
- FIG. 2 schematically depicts a glare blocking device associated with a pair of optical elements
- FIG. 3 schematically depicts a glare blocking device associated with a pair of optical elements and a pair of illumination sources
- FIG. 4 schematically depicts a glare blocking device associated with a pair of optical elements and a pair of illumination sources and a simplified system for glare blocking;
- FIG. 5 schematically depicts a glare blocking device having a controllably reflective portion thereof
- FIGS. 6A-6C depict a glare blocking device used in an automobile and various attachments
- FIG. 7 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated within eyeglasses
- FIG. 8 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated within an aerospace vehicle tracking system
- FIG. 9 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated within a welding mask.
- FIG. 10 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated with a camera.
- Glare blocking device 100 includes an electro-optical element 102 and a control and power system 104 .
- the control and power system 104 includes therein an image acquisition device 106 , a processor 108 , a control 110 , and a power supply 112 . All of the components of the glare blocking device according to this embodiment are integrated into a wireless apparatus.
- This wireless apparatus conveniently may be employed in a variety of applications, including, but not limited to, automobile visors, glasses, masks, attachments (e.g., 40 camera), shades (e.g., as in on the side windows of automobile, such as to prevent glare and other excess illumination to passengers within the automobile), and the like.
- the electro-optical element 102 comprises a plurality of pixels 114 .
- an optical element 116 is in optical communication with an illumination source 118 . If the illumination source 118 is above a preselected or adjustably preselected value (generally as determined by the image acquisition device 106 and the processor 108 , as in further described herein), the control 110 will address one or more pixels 114 associated with the location of the illumination source 118 .
- a preselected or adjustably preselected value generally as determined by the image acquisition device 106 and the processor 108 , as in further described herein.
- Each of the pixels 114 is electronically addressable by the control 110 , and has a light transmittance which is actively controllable for the purpose of selectively reducing the intensity of an incident light ray propagating from a point of illumination source 118 in the spatial scene, through the pixel, towards the optical element 116 .
- points on the surface of electro-optical element 102 are measured with respect to a coordinate system.
- the coordinate system may be a Cartesian coordinate system specified by principal coordinate axes x, y and z, a polar coordinate system, or any other type of coordinate systems.
- the pixels along the transparent surface are formed from a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal film having a light transmittance of at least 70% in the optical spectrum, that is, when the pixels are not actively controlled or driven by control 110 .
- Each pixel located on the optically transparent surface at coordinates (x, y) is electrically addressable by an address value A(x,y) computed by the processor 108 .
- the intensity (i.e. brightness) of incident light rays transmitted along the line of sight through these actively driven pixels is reduced by a selected amount which is sufficient to achieve effective reduction of glare produced in diverse environments.
- the degree of intensity reduction achievable at each pixel can be of a binary nature (i.e., a first light transmittance when not actively driven, or a lesser light transmittance when actively driven).
- the degree of intensity reduction m(x, y) can be quantized to one of a number of possible states.
- suitable polymer-dispersed liquid crystal films that may be used in practicing the present invention, reference is made to the following publications: “Reverse-Mode MicroDroplet Liquid Crystal Display” by Y. D. Ma and B. G. Wu, on pages 46-57, SPIE Vol. 1257, Liquid Crystal Displays and Application (1990); and “Polymer-Dispersed and Encapsulated Liquid Crystal Films”, by G. Paul Montgomery, Jr., on pages 577-606 , SPIE Institute Series Vol. IS4, Large-Area Chromogenics: Materials and Devices for Transmittance Control 1990, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
- the image acquisition device 106 includes at least one opto-electronic sensor.
- the sensor may be realized in the form of image forming optics, CCD, CMOS, or a combination of at least one of the foregoing opto-electronic sensors.
- the sensor generally includes an array of pixels such that it may be coordinated with the pixels 114 on the electro-optical element 102 .
- the image acquisition device 106 is used to generate an electronic image signal of the spatial scene.
- the coordinates of pixels on the array of the image acquisition device are measured with respect to a coordinate system, preferably compatible with the coordinate system used for the pixels of the electro-optical element 102 .
- the principal function of the camera station is to acquire images of the spatial scene within the field of view of the optical element 116 .
- Processor 108 may comprise a microcomputer system having associated memory for buffering acquired images.
- the microcomputer processes the acquired image(s) from the camera station in order to determine at which pixels 114 in the electro-optical element 102 the light transmittance is to be actively controlled (the “controlled pixels 114”) in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays by a selected amount before they reach the optical element 116 .
- the processor 108 produces intensity reduction data representative of the selected amount of intensity reduction at the controlled pixels 114 .
- the image acquisition device 106 and the processor 108 (or a portion thereof) may be integrally embedded within a CMOS camera.
- the control 110 generally comprises controller/driver circuitry interfaced with the processor 108 .
- the principal function of control 110 is to automatically address controlled pixels 114 and actively control the light transmittance thereof accordance with intensity reduction data. In this way, as light rays propagate from the spatial scene and through the actively controlled pixels in electro-optical element 102 , the incident light rays propagating through these pixels will reach the optical element with an intensity that has been reduced by the selected amount of light transmittance.
- the selected amount of light transmittance may vary depending on the particular application, depending on circumstances and usage of the glare blocking device 100 .
- the power supply 112 may be realizable as a suitable power converter (e.g., DC-DC or AC-DC), a primary battery, a secondary battery, a solar cell, or combinations thereof.
- suitable power converters and/or solar cells may be associated with a secondary battery for recharging of the secondary battery.
- the principal function of the power supply 112 is to provide power to the image acquisition device 106 , the processor 108 , and the control 110 .
- the power supply 112 is suitably configured and dimension for the particular glare blocking the device 100 .
- the power supply 112 may comprise a secondary (i.e., rechargeable) battery.
- the battery (or plurality of batteries) may be recharged by an external power source, such as a home or automobile charger.
- the power supply 112 may include one or more secondary batteries and one or more solar cells.
- the solar cells may serve to recharge the secondary batteries and/or provide power to other components of the control and power system 104 .
- the solar cell may be disposed in a suitable location on the glare blocking device 100 that is exposed to sufficient illumination to allow the solar cell to charge the secondary battery.
- the solar cell may be located on the side of the glare blocking device 100 that faces the windshield. In this manner, the solar cell receives optimum illumination to provide energy for operation and charging, and further the solar cell 100 may be used when the device is stowed away, for example, as described in FIG. 6C further herein.
- the secondary battery may be continuously charged by the solar cell. Suitable controls or electronics may also be provided to prevent overcharging of the secondary battery.
- a glare blocking device 200 is schematically depicted.
- a pair of optical elements 216 a , 216 b are provided.
- the pair of elements e.g., a pair of pupils
- the device 200 may incorporate a pair of image acquisition devices, each operating generally as described above with respect to the image acquisition device 116 .
- Each image acquisition device may view the imaging based on the field of view of each respective optical elements 216 a , 216 b . In this mode, each image acquisition device “sees” what each optical elements 216 a , 216 b “sees”.
- a pair of infrared cameras may be employed with their optical axes directed toward the optical elements 216 a , 216 b , for example, to form a pupil-tracking camera subsystem which measures the position of the optical elements 216 a , 216 b (e.g., pupils) relative to the pixels of the electro-optical elements.
- a pupil-tracking camera subsystem which measures the position of the optical elements 216 a , 216 b (e.g., pupils) relative to the pixels of the electro-optical elements.
- depth-map data i.e., x, y and z coordinates
- x, y and z coordinates of each point in the spatial scene viewed by the optical elements 216 a , 216 b can be readily computed, for example, as described in the above-mentioned reference.
- FIG. 3 another embodiment of a glare blocking device 300 is schematically depicted.
- a pair of optical elements 316 a , 316 b are depicted.
- a source of illumination 318 is realized in the form of an automobile with a pair of headlights directing a high intensity illumination to the optical elements 316 a , 316 b . Therefore, since there are a pair of optical elements, and a pair of high intensity illumination sources, four regions of one or more controlled pixels are addressed by the control corresponding with the left and right headlamps as viewed by the left-handed optical element, and the left and right headlands as viewed by the right-handed optical element.
- the glare blocking may be effectuated as described generally above with respect to FIG. 2 , utilizing a pair of image acquisition devices.
- a single image acquisition device may be provided. During processing of the acquired image, the pair of regions of one or more controlled pixels (associated with each optical element 316 a , 316 b ) may be controlled based upon the distance between the two optical elements 316 a , 316 b .
- a single image acquisition device may be utilized, which preferably “sees” the field of view of the pair of optical elements at the midpoint between the pair of optical elements.
- the distance between the two optical elements may be preprogrammed in the processor (e.g., 1.25 inches to the right and 1.25 inches to the left, based on an average distance between two human eyes of 2.5 inches).
- the distance between the pair of optical elements 316 a , 316 b may be calibrated.
- the device 300 may be equipped with an input system operably coupled to the processor, whereby the user may enter the distance between his or her eyes.
- the device 300 may be equipped with an integral or separate eye tracking device, which automatically measures the distance between the pupils of the user.
- Such an eye tracking system may operate one time (e.g., when the used initially sets up the glare blocking device), each time the glare blocking device is used at start-up, intermittently, or continuously.
- a calibration system can be used based generally on approximations.
- a calibrating object e.g., an object recognizable by the image acquisition device
- the system may be automatically calibrated.
- the image acquisition device may determine the presence of the object, and then detenmine the location of the object by recognizing the object within the acquired image (e.g. by the processor).
- the processor may be suitably programmed to approximate the position of the users pupils, generally based on the known dimensions of the blocking device and other parameters, such as the distance of the calibration object to the device and/or the distance of the user from the device. These distance is may be: programmed (e.g., approximated values based on various types or models of vehicles); user imported (e.g. whereby the user imports the distance of the object from a point on declare blocking device, and the user imports the approximate distance of the users eyes to the glare blocking device); or a combination thereof.
- a glare blocking device 400 is depicted, wherein optical elements 416 a and 416 b are in optical communication with a high intensity illumination sources 418 , which includes a pair of illumination sources.
- the controller instead of the controller addressing two regions of one or more controlled pixels based on each illumination source (i.e., four regions of one or more controlled pixels as depicted in FIG. 4 ), one region of one or more controlled pixels may be addressed, which generally corresponds to one optical elements 416 a or 416 b. Therefore, for example, as depicted in FIG. 4 , for a pair of high intensity illumination sources and a pair of optical elements (e.g., a pair of headlights and a pair of eyes), two regions of one or more controlled pixels may be blocked instead of four regions of one or more controlled pixels.
- a glare blocking device 500 may incorporate an electro-optical device 530 having reflection, semi-transparent, and transparent modes of operation, as fully described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,072,549 entitled “‘Intelligent Glazing Structures With Additional Controlled Layers”, by Faris et al., which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
- the user may selectively switch the device 530 between a reflective state and a default state.
- the region occupied by the electro-optical device 530 is similar to, for example, the electro-optical elements 102 . That is, upon attainment of certain values of illumination sources, the region occupied by the device 530 is “semi-transparent”, wherein at least a portion of the incident light rays are blocked.
- the level of intensity of the incident light rays upon which the blocking device herein is activated may be predetermined based on commonly accepted intensity levels for sunlight, headlights, or other illumination source (e.g., a torch, a UV light source, etc.). Also, the value may be preselected by the user with an input device coupled to the processor. This allows for sensitivity variations for individuals.
- the level of intensity of the incident light at which the blocking device is activated may be relative. That is, the image acquired by the image acquisition device may be scanned for an average illumination intensity, and regions that are a certain value above the average illumination intensity may be blocked or reduced. Further, the relative values may be based on the relationship between a plurality of regions of one or more pixels. For example, the processor may determine that the region of one or more pixels is much greater than an adjacent region of one or more pixels (wherein the difference may be preselected e.g., five times greater).
- a blocking device 600 may be incorporated in an automobile, for example, by attachment to an existing visor 640 in the automobile.
- the attachment to the blocking device 600 to the visor 640 may be effectuated in a removable, permanent, or adjustable matter.
- the glare blocking device 600 may be attached to the visor 640 with suitable fasteners, such as adhesive and/or screws.
- the glare blocking device 600 may be removably attached to the visor 640 by clips, hook and loop fasteners, or other suitable removable fasteners.
- FIG. 6B depicts the glare blocking device 600 removably attached to the visor 640 with a removable fasteners 650 , such as a corresponding pair of hoop and loop fasteners, or a clip.
- the glare blocking device 600 may be adjustably attached to the visor 640 with an adjustable system 660 .
- the adjustable system 660 may comprise, for example, a suitable track system, or a U-shaped fastener that facilitates a frictional engagement between the glare blocking device 600 and the visor 640 .
- the glare blocking device 600 may be positioned up or down, to adjust the height of the glare blocking device when used, or to suitably stow away the glare blocking device behind the visor 640 when not in operation.
- FIG. 600 Another embodiment of adjustably attached glare blocking device includes a motorized system for moving the glare blocking device 600 up and down.
- the motorized system may be semi-automatic, e.g., whereby a user pushes a button such that the glare blocking device 600 advanced or detract. Further, the system may be automatic, whereby the image acquisition device and processor continue to operate in the retracted position, and wherein upon detection of a certain intensity of incident light, the blocking device 600 automatically advances.
- the system may further include an override, for example, so that the user may prevent advancement of the blocking device 600 .
- a glare blocking device 700 is realized in the form of a pair of eyeglasses.
- Each lens of the pair of eyeglasses, or a portion thereof, comprises electro optical elements 702 a and 702 b .
- the control and power system 704 may be positioned in any convenient location on the eyeglasses, such as on the sides of the eyeglasses, proximate to the bridge of the eyeglasses, or a combination thereof.
- the image acquisition device is located in proximate to the bridge portion of the eyeglasses, to simplify processing and control of the image.
- one or more sensors such as radio frequency sensors, may be integrated into the control and power system 704 , which may wirelessly communicate with an external control and/or processor.
- a glare blocking device 800 is incorporated in an airplane, spacecraft, missile, or other various manned or unmanned land, sea, and aerospace vehicles having one or more optical elements 816 realized in the form of a tracking sensor.
- the glare blocking device 800 may be used to block or limit certain high intensity sources that may interfere with communication (e.g., radio frequency communication) of the tracking sensors.
- Such tracking sensors are commonly used for tracking of various manned and unmanned land, sea, and aerospace vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks, water vessels, missiles and airplanes.
- the tracking sensor may encounter high intensity sources such as excessive sunlight.
- the excessive sunlight essentially saturated to the tracking sensor, minimizing or disabling the functionality thereof.
- the device 800 may operate to minimize or eliminate detrimental effects related to tracking of the missile.
- a glare blocking device 900 may be realized in the form of a shield or a portion of a shield, for example, for use as a welding mask.
- the control and power system 904 may be conveniently located, for example, on a portion of the headband for the welding mask.
- a portion of the control and power system such as the image acquisition device may be integrated in the front portion of the glare blocking device 900 , for example, proximate to the wearer's forehead. This allows for convenient image processing.
- the glare blocking device 1000 may be realized in the form of a lens attachment for a camera 1070 , such as a still or video camera.
- auxiliary electronic devices may be incorporated in the glare blocking device described herein.
- a global positioning system may be included, which may be powered by the power supply of the glare blocking device.
- the blocking device described herein, and its various embodiment, may be realized as a wireless device. This allows the glare blocking device to conveniently be utilized in situations with which otherwise would be inconvenient. For example, an automobile, the use of wires may be inconvenient.
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Abstract
An apparatus is provided for automatically reducing glare produced from a spatial scene by reducing the intensity of light rays propagating from points in the three-dimensional spatial scene towards an optical element having a field of view. Further, an apparatus is provided that automatically reduces interfering illumination produced from an illumination source by reducing the intensity of light rays propagating from the illumination source towards a sensor having a field of view of radio communication. Both apparatus include an electro-optical element having an optically transparent surface including a plurality of pixels through which the field of view of the optical element or the sensor passes. Each pixel has a controllable light transmittance for selectively reducing the intensity of incident light rays propagating from one or more points from the illumination source, through the pixel, then towards the sensor or optical element. An image acquisition device is included for acquiring one or more images of the illumination source within the field of view of the sensor or optical element. A processor is also included for processing the acquired images and determining at which pixels the light transmittance is to be actively controlled in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays before reaching the sensor or optical element. A control is also provided for actively controlling the light transmittance of the determined pixels so that after incident light rays propagate through the determined pixels, the incident light rays propagate towards the sensor or optical element with reduced intensity.
Description
- The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/288,675 entitled “Glare Blocking Device” filed on May 7, 2001, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to glare blocking device, and particularly to an integrated device that selectively reduces the intensity of incident light as is propagated toward an optical element.
- 2. Description of the Prior Art
- Many sources of illumination producing glare which detrimentally affects various types of optical systems. For example, many outdoor activities are effectuated more comfortably with the use of sunglasses, particularly in times of extreme sunlight. However, with use of conventional sunglasses, all visible light intensity is reduced. This may be problematic, for example, in areas of shade, or, for example, while driving in the less illuminated areas such as trials.
- Further, even in at night, artificial light, such as from headlamps of oncoming cars, is propagated onto the eyes of automobile drivers. This is particularly problematic when the headlamps are in high-beam mode, such that the driver is essentially unable to view the road ahead. Additionally, many vehicles are equipped with high-intensity headlamps which have a high-intensity under normal operation, and even higher intensity under high-beam mode of operation. As a driver continues to view the intense headlamps, the driver's division becomes fatigued, consequently impairing their ability to drive effectively.
- Also, with the increase in popularity in laser corrective surgery, many individuals are becoming increasingly sensitive to glare associated with sunlight or artificial light.
- Therefore, it will be desirable to provide an efficient and convenient system that solves the above-mentioned problems.
- The present invention provides an apparatus for automatically reducing glare produced from a spatial scene by reducing the intensity of light rays propagating from points in the three-dimensional spatial scene towards an optical element having a field of view. The apparatus includes an electro-optical element having an optically transparent surface including a plurality of electrically addressable pixels through which the field of view of the optical element passes. Each pixel has a controllable light transmittance for selectively reducing the intensity of incident light rays propagating from one or more points in the spatial scene, through the pixel, then towards the optical element. The apparatus also includes an image acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of the spatial scene within the field of view of the optical element. A processor is also provided for processing the one or more acquired images and determining at which pixels the light transmittance is to be actively controlled in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays by a selected amount before reaching the optical element. Further, a control is provided for actively controlling the light transmittance of the determined pixels so that after incident light rays propagate through the determined pixels, the incident light rays propagate towards the optical element with an intensity reduced by the selected amount, so that glare produced from the spatial scene is automatically reduced. To provide for convenient and portable operation of the apparatus, a power supply may be integrated within the apparatus for providing electrical power to the image acquisition device, the processor, and control.
- The above-discussed and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and drawings.
-
FIG. 1 shows a general embodiment of the glare blocking device; -
FIG. 2 schematically depicts a glare blocking device associated with a pair of optical elements; -
FIG. 3 schematically depicts a glare blocking device associated with a pair of optical elements and a pair of illumination sources; -
FIG. 4 schematically depicts a glare blocking device associated with a pair of optical elements and a pair of illumination sources and a simplified system for glare blocking; -
FIG. 5 schematically depicts a glare blocking device having a controllably reflective portion thereof; -
FIGS. 6A-6C depict a glare blocking device used in an automobile and various attachments; -
FIG. 7 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated within eyeglasses; -
FIG. 8 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated within an aerospace vehicle tracking system; -
FIG. 9 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated within a welding mask; and -
FIG. 10 depicts a glare blocking device incorporated with a camera. - Referring now to
FIG. 1 , a general embodiment of aglare blocking device 100 is depicted.Glare blocking device 100 includes an electro-optical element 102 and a control andpower system 104. The control andpower system 104 includes therein animage acquisition device 106, aprocessor 108, acontrol 110, and apower supply 112. All of the components of the glare blocking device according to this embodiment are integrated into a wireless apparatus. This wireless apparatus conveniently may be employed in a variety of applications, including, but not limited to, automobile visors, glasses, masks, attachments (e.g., 40 camera), shades (e.g., as in on the side windows of automobile, such as to prevent glare and other excess illumination to passengers within the automobile), and the like. - The electro-
optical element 102 comprises a plurality ofpixels 114. During operation, anoptical element 116 is in optical communication with anillumination source 118. If theillumination source 118 is above a preselected or adjustably preselected value (generally as determined by theimage acquisition device 106 and theprocessor 108, as in further described herein), thecontrol 110 will address one ormore pixels 114 associated with the location of theillumination source 118. Such operation is described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,012 entitled “Intelligent Electro-Optical System and Method for Automatic Glare Reduction” by the applicant herein, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. - Each of the
pixels 114 is electronically addressable by thecontrol 110, and has a light transmittance which is actively controllable for the purpose of selectively reducing the intensity of an incident light ray propagating from a point ofillumination source 118 in the spatial scene, through the pixel, towards theoptical element 116. Typically, points on the surface of electro-optical element 102 are measured with respect to a coordinate system. The coordinate system may be a Cartesian coordinate system specified by principal coordinate axes x, y and z, a polar coordinate system, or any other type of coordinate systems. - Preferably, the pixels along the transparent surface are formed from a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal film having a light transmittance of at least 70% in the optical spectrum, that is, when the pixels are not actively controlled or driven by
control 110. Each pixel located on the optically transparent surface at coordinates (x, y) is electrically addressable by an address value A(x,y) computed by theprocessor 108. When driving an addressed pixel or set of pixels at any particular instant in time, the intensity (i.e. brightness) of incident light rays transmitted along the line of sight through these actively driven pixels is reduced by a selected amount which is sufficient to achieve effective reduction of glare produced in diverse environments. The degree of intensity reduction achievable at each pixel can be of a binary nature (i.e., a first light transmittance when not actively driven, or a lesser light transmittance when actively driven). Alternatively, the degree of intensity reduction m(x, y) can be quantized to one of a number of possible states. For further details regarding suitable polymer-dispersed liquid crystal films that may be used in practicing the present invention, reference is made to the following publications: “Reverse-Mode MicroDroplet Liquid Crystal Display” by Y. D. Ma and B. G. Wu, on pages 46-57, SPIE Vol. 1257, Liquid Crystal Displays and Application (1990); and “Polymer-Dispersed and Encapsulated Liquid Crystal Films”, by G. Paul Montgomery, Jr., on pages 577-606, SPIE Institute Series Vol. IS4, Large-Area Chromogenics: Materials and Devices for Transmittance Control 1990, which are hereby incorporated by reference. - In general, the
image acquisition device 106 includes at least one opto-electronic sensor. The sensor may be realized in the form of image forming optics, CCD, CMOS, or a combination of at least one of the foregoing opto-electronic sensors. The sensor generally includes an array of pixels such that it may be coordinated with thepixels 114 on the electro-optical element 102. Theimage acquisition device 106 is used to generate an electronic image signal of the spatial scene. The coordinates of pixels on the array of the image acquisition device are measured with respect to a coordinate system, preferably compatible with the coordinate system used for the pixels of the electro-optical element 102. The principal function of the camera station is to acquire images of the spatial scene within the field of view of theoptical element 116. -
Processor 108 may comprise a microcomputer system having associated memory for buffering acquired images. The microcomputer processes the acquired image(s) from the camera station in order to determine at whichpixels 114 in the electro-optical element 102 the light transmittance is to be actively controlled (the “controlledpixels 114”) in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays by a selected amount before they reach theoptical element 116. Theprocessor 108 produces intensity reduction data representative of the selected amount of intensity reduction at the controlledpixels 114. In further embodiments, theimage acquisition device 106 and the processor 108 (or a portion thereof) may be integrally embedded within a CMOS camera. - The
control 110 generally comprises controller/driver circuitry interfaced with theprocessor 108. The principal function ofcontrol 110 is to automatically address controlledpixels 114 and actively control the light transmittance thereof accordance with intensity reduction data. In this way, as light rays propagate from the spatial scene and through the actively controlled pixels in electro-optical element 102, the incident light rays propagating through these pixels will reach the optical element with an intensity that has been reduced by the selected amount of light transmittance. The selected amount of light transmittance may vary depending on the particular application, depending on circumstances and usage of theglare blocking device 100. - The
power supply 112 may be realizable as a suitable power converter (e.g., DC-DC or AC-DC), a primary battery, a secondary battery, a solar cell, or combinations thereof. For example, suitable power converters and/or solar cells may be associated with a secondary battery for recharging of the secondary battery. The principal function of thepower supply 112 is to provide power to theimage acquisition device 106, theprocessor 108, and thecontrol 110. Preferably, thepower supply 112 is suitably configured and dimension for the particular glare blocking thedevice 100. For example, in the case of a visor, for attachments to an automobile sunvisor, thepower supply 112 may comprise a secondary (i.e., rechargeable) battery. The battery (or plurality of batteries) may be recharged by an external power source, such as a home or automobile charger. Further, thepower supply 112 may include one or more secondary batteries and one or more solar cells. The solar cells may serve to recharge the secondary batteries and/or provide power to other components of the control andpower system 104. - In one embodiment, where a solar cell is used, for example, in conjunction with a secondary battery, the solar cell may be disposed in a suitable location on the
glare blocking device 100 that is exposed to sufficient illumination to allow the solar cell to charge the secondary battery. For example, where theglare blocking device 100 is embodied as an attachment to the visor in an automobile, as described in more detail herein, the solar cell may be located on the side of theglare blocking device 100 that faces the windshield. In this manner, the solar cell receives optimum illumination to provide energy for operation and charging, and further thesolar cell 100 may be used when the device is stowed away, for example, as described inFIG. 6C further herein. Thus, the secondary battery may be continuously charged by the solar cell. Suitable controls or electronics may also be provided to prevent overcharging of the secondary battery. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , aglare blocking device 200 is schematically depicted. A pair ofoptical elements glare blocking device 200 in stereoscopic mode. In one embodiment, thedevice 200 may incorporate a pair of image acquisition devices, each operating generally as described above with respect to theimage acquisition device 116. Each image acquisition device may view the imaging based on the field of view of each respectiveoptical elements optical elements optical elements optical elements optical elements optical elements - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , another embodiment of aglare blocking device 300 is schematically depicted. In this embodiment, a pair ofoptical elements illumination 318 is realized in the form of an automobile with a pair of headlights directing a high intensity illumination to theoptical elements FIG. 2 , utilizing a pair of image acquisition devices. In a further embodiment, to simplify the overall elements of the system, a single image acquisition device may be provided. During processing of the acquired image, the pair of regions of one or more controlled pixels (associated with eachoptical element optical elements optical elements device 300 may be equipped with an input system operably coupled to the processor, whereby the user may enter the distance between his or her eyes. Further, thedevice 300 may be equipped with an integral or separate eye tracking device, which automatically measures the distance between the pupils of the user. Such an eye tracking system may operate one time (e.g., when the used initially sets up the glare blocking device), each time the glare blocking device is used at start-up, intermittently, or continuously. - As an alternative to using an eye tracking device to detennine the field of view of the user, a calibration system can be used based generally on approximations. A calibrating object (e.g., an object recognizable by the image acquisition device) may be located at a point behind the glare blocking device. When the object is at a position at which the user can view (e.g., without impairment of the glare blocking device), the system may be automatically calibrated. For example, the image acquisition device may determine the presence of the object, and then detenmine the location of the object by recognizing the object within the acquired image (e.g. by the processor). The processor may be suitably programmed to approximate the position of the users pupils, generally based on the known dimensions of the blocking device and other parameters, such as the distance of the calibration object to the device and/or the distance of the user from the device. These distance is may be: programmed (e.g., approximated values based on various types or models of vehicles); user imported (e.g. whereby the user imports the distance of the object from a point on declare blocking device, and the user imports the approximate distance of the users eyes to the glare blocking device); or a combination thereof.
- Referring now to
FIG. 4 , aglare blocking device 400 is depicted, whereinoptical elements intensity illumination sources 418, which includes a pair of illumination sources. In this embodiment, instead of the controller addressing two regions of one or more controlled pixels based on each illumination source (i.e., four regions of one or more controlled pixels as depicted inFIG. 4 ), one region of one or more controlled pixels may be addressed, which generally corresponds to oneoptical elements FIG. 4 , for a pair of high intensity illumination sources and a pair of optical elements (e.g., a pair of headlights and a pair of eyes), two regions of one or more controlled pixels may be blocked instead of four regions of one or more controlled pixels. - In a still further embodiment of the present intention, and referring now to
FIG. 5 , aglare blocking device 500 may incorporate an electro-optical device 530 having reflection, semi-transparent, and transparent modes of operation, as fully described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,072,549 entitled “‘Intelligent Glazing Structures With Additional Controlled Layers”, by Faris et al., which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. With the inclusion of the electro-optical device 530, the user may selectively switch thedevice 530 between a reflective state and a default state. In the default state, the region occupied by the electro-optical device 530 is similar to, for example, the electro-optical elements 102. That is, upon attainment of certain values of illumination sources, the region occupied by thedevice 530 is “semi-transparent”, wherein at least a portion of the incident light rays are blocked. - The level of intensity of the incident light rays upon which the blocking device herein is activated (e.g., wherein one or more regions of one or more controlled pixels are operably addressed by the control) may be predetermined based on commonly accepted intensity levels for sunlight, headlights, or other illumination source (e.g., a torch, a UV light source, etc.). Also, the value may be preselected by the user with an input device coupled to the processor. This allows for sensitivity variations for individuals.
- Alternatively, the level of intensity of the incident light at which the blocking device is activated may be relative. That is, the image acquired by the image acquisition device may be scanned for an average illumination intensity, and regions that are a certain value above the average illumination intensity may be blocked or reduced. Further, the relative values may be based on the relationship between a plurality of regions of one or more pixels. For example, the processor may determine that the region of one or more pixels is much greater than an adjacent region of one or more pixels (wherein the difference may be preselected e.g., five times greater).
- Referring now to
FIG. 6A ablocking device 600 may be incorporated in an automobile, for example, by attachment to an existingvisor 640 in the automobile. The attachment to theblocking device 600 to thevisor 640 may be effectuated in a removable, permanent, or adjustable matter. In a permanent manner, theglare blocking device 600 may be attached to thevisor 640 with suitable fasteners, such as adhesive and/or screws. In a removable fashion, theglare blocking device 600 may be removably attached to thevisor 640 by clips, hook and loop fasteners, or other suitable removable fasteners. For example,FIG. 6B depicts theglare blocking device 600 removably attached to thevisor 640 with aremovable fasteners 650, such as a corresponding pair of hoop and loop fasteners, or a clip. - Further, and referring now to
FIG. 6C , theglare blocking device 600 may be adjustably attached to thevisor 640 with anadjustable system 660. Theadjustable system 660 may comprise, for example, a suitable track system, or a U-shaped fastener that facilitates a frictional engagement between theglare blocking device 600 and thevisor 640. In this manner, theglare blocking device 600 may be positioned up or down, to adjust the height of the glare blocking device when used, or to suitably stow away the glare blocking device behind thevisor 640 when not in operation. - Another embodiment of adjustably attached glare blocking device includes a motorized system for moving the
glare blocking device 600 up and down. The motorized system may be semi-automatic, e.g., whereby a user pushes a button such that theglare blocking device 600 advanced or detract. Further, the system may be automatic, whereby the image acquisition device and processor continue to operate in the retracted position, and wherein upon detection of a certain intensity of incident light, theblocking device 600 automatically advances. The system may further include an override, for example, so that the user may prevent advancement of theblocking device 600. - Referring now to
FIG. 7 , aglare blocking device 700 is realized in the form of a pair of eyeglasses. Each lens of the pair of eyeglasses, or a portion thereof, comprises electrooptical elements power system 704 may be positioned in any convenient location on the eyeglasses, such as on the sides of the eyeglasses, proximate to the bridge of the eyeglasses, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the image acquisition device is located in proximate to the bridge portion of the eyeglasses, to simplify processing and control of the image. Alternatively, one or more sensors, such as radio frequency sensors, may be integrated into the control andpower system 704, which may wirelessly communicate with an external control and/or processor. - Referring now to
FIG. 8 , aglare blocking device 800 is incorporated in an airplane, spacecraft, missile, or other various manned or unmanned land, sea, and aerospace vehicles having one or moreoptical elements 816 realized in the form of a tracking sensor. Theglare blocking device 800 may be used to block or limit certain high intensity sources that may interfere with communication (e.g., radio frequency communication) of the tracking sensors. Such tracking sensors are commonly used for tracking of various manned and unmanned land, sea, and aerospace vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks, water vessels, missiles and airplanes. - During travel, the tracking sensor may encounter high intensity sources such as excessive sunlight. In this case, the excessive sunlight essentially saturated to the tracking sensor, minimizing or disabling the functionality thereof. While the missile is traversing regions of high intensity sunlight from illumination source 818 (e.g., the sun), the
device 800 may operate to minimize or eliminate detrimental effects related to tracking of the missile. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 , aglare blocking device 900 may be realized in the form of a shield or a portion of a shield, for example, for use as a welding mask. The control and power system 904 may be conveniently located, for example, on a portion of the headband for the welding mask. Alternatively, or in conjunction with that location for the control and power system 904, a portion of the control and power system such as the image acquisition device may be integrated in the front portion of theglare blocking device 900, for example, proximate to the wearer's forehead. This allows for convenient image processing. - Referring now to
FIG. 10 , theglare blocking device 1000 may be realized in the form of a lens attachment for acamera 1070, such as a still or video camera. - It should be noted that a variety of other auxiliary electronic devices may be incorporated in the glare blocking device described herein. For example, a global positioning system may be included, which may be powered by the power supply of the glare blocking device.
- The blocking device described herein, and its various embodiment, may be realized as a wireless device. This allows the glare blocking device to conveniently be utilized in situations with which otherwise would be inconvenient. For example, an automobile, the use of wires may be inconvenient.
- While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications and substitutions may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the present invention has been described by way of illustrations and not limitation.
Claims (21)
1-11. (canceled)
12. Apparatus for automatically reducing interfering illumination produced from an illumination source by reducing the intensity of light rays propagating from the illumination source towards a sensor having a field of view of radio communication, said apparatus comprising:
an electro-optical element having an optically transparent surface including a plurality of pixels through which the field of view of said sensor passes, each said pixel having a controllable light transmittance for selectively reducing the intensity of incident light rays propagating from one or more points from the illumination source, through said pixel, then towards said sensor;
an image acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of said illumination source within the field of view of said sensor;
a processor for processing said one or more acquired images and determining at which pixels the light transmittance is to be actively controlled in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays by a selected amount before reaching said sensor;
a control for actively controlling the light transmittance of the determined pixels so that after incident light rays propagate through said determined pixels, said incident light rays propagate towards said sensor with an intensity reduced by said selected amount, so that interference produced from the illumination source is automatically reduced.
13. The apparatus as in claim 12 , further comprising a power supply integrated within the apparatus for providing electrical power to the image acquisition device, the processor, and control.
14-16. (Canceled)
17. An apparatus for automatically reducing illumination from an illumination source prorogating towards an optical element having a field of view of communication comprising:
an electro-optical element in optical communication with the optical element and positioned between said illumination source and said optical element;
an image acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of said illumination source within the field of view of said optical element; and
a processor for processing said one or more acquired images and determining one or more locations on the electro-optical element at which the light transmittance is to be actively controlled in order to reduce the intensity of incident light rays before reaching said optical element.
18. The apparatus as in claim 17 , wherein the electro-optical element includes an optically transparent surface including a plurality of pixels through which the field of view of said optical element passes, each said pixel having a controllable light transmittance for selectively reducing the intensity of incident light rays propagating from one or more points from the illumination source towards said pixel, then towards said optical element, and wherein said processor determines which of said pixels is to be actively controlled.
19. The apparatus as in claim 17 , further comprising a control for actively controlling the light transmittance of the determined one or more locations on the electro-optical element so that after incident light rays propagate through said one or more locations on the electro-optical element, said incident light rays propagate towards said optical element with a reduced intensity
20. The apparatus as in claim 18 , further comprising a control for actively controlling the light transmittance of the determined pixels so that after incident light rays propagate through said determined pixels, said incident light rays propagate towards said optical element with a reduced intensity
21. The apparatus as in claim 17 , wherein said optical element comprises a sensor.
22. The apparatus as in claim 17 , wherein said optical element comprises a tracking sensor.
23. The apparatus as in claim 17 , further comprising a power supply integrated within the apparatus for providing electrical power to the image acquisition device, the processor, and the electro-optical element.
24. The apparatus as in claim 23 , wherein the power supply comprises a primary battery.
25. The apparatus as in claim 23 , wherein the power supply comprises a secondary battery
26. The apparatus as in claim 25 , wherein the secondary battery is recharged with an external power source.
27. The apparatus as in claim 25 , wherein said secondary battery is recharged with a solar cell within the apparatus.
28. The apparatus as in claim 17 , further comprising an auxiliary electronic device.
29. The apparatus as in claim 28 , wherein the auxiliary electronic device comprises a global positioning system
30. The apparatus as in claim 19 , further comprising an auxiliary electronic device.
31. The apparatus as in claim 30 , wherein the auxiliary electronic device comprises a global positioning system.
32. The apparatus as in claim 17 , wherein said optical element is integrated in a craft selected from the group consisting of manned land vehicles, unmanned land vehicles, manned sea vehicles, unmanned sea vehicles, manned aerospace vehicles and unmanned aerospace vehicles.
33. A method for automatically reducing illumination from an illumination source prorogating towards an optical element comprising:
(a) an electro optical element position between said optical element and said illumination source thereby intercepting light transmittance from said illumination source;
(b) an image acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of said illumination source;
(c) a processor for processing said one or more acquired images from said illumination souice and
(d) said processor further determining the light transmittance reduction zones on said electro-optical element.
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Also Published As
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US6786610B2 (en) | 2004-09-07 |
US20040012762A1 (en) | 2004-01-22 |
TW569036B (en) | 2004-01-01 |
WO2002089714A2 (en) | 2002-11-14 |
WO2002089714A3 (en) | 2003-02-27 |
AU2002303670A1 (en) | 2002-11-18 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |