Development of Action Camera Accessory With Integrated ND Filter and Water Repellant Functionality

Abstract: Action cameras is a recently emerged sub-segment of cameras that focuses on videography indemanding environments. Typical use cases include various types of sport and drone footage.Two factors that frequently affect the image quality of these cameras negatively are excessively strong sunlight, and water droplets beading in front of the lens. In this work the question of whether or not it is possible to design an accessory that solves these problems is investigated. The technology for mitigating excessive light was provided at the outset of the project, leaving the question of integration open. The water repellant functionality on the other hand required investigation of relevant theory, as well as evaluation of applicability in the context of current work. Electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD) was determined to be the most promising approach for removing droplets. EWOD was investigated by looking at relevant research, as well as creating a test sample. The sample proved to be inadequate for testing the phenomena, presumably because of lack in manufacturing precision due to resource constraints. Despite this, the promising results shown in previous research were deemed sufficient for choosing thetechnology for integration into the final product design. Parameters that need optimization for successful integration of EWOD in portable consumer electronics have been highlighted, and recommendations for future research given. The accessory presented in this work shows that it is indeed possible to create a device that solves the stated problem, while at the same timeappealing to relevant customer segments.