Add DIY CPL (Polarizing Filter) to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflections

[Street Guardian USA]

UPDATE(12SEP2013) Here's the LaserGnomes store link if you want to order the finished product!
http://ow.ly/oPuP8
(NOTE The store is temporarily offline. The first print was using a biodegradable plastic. I found this grade of plastic was warping in the green house effect heat of the sun. LaserGnomes has new heat resistant plastic on order and will re-activate the store once it's in stock. (so stand by))

Update from LaserGnomes (02OCT2013):
"I got in the new ABS plastic in black. Have yet to so swap over as ABS kind of ruins heads for future PLA use. Will do it soon"

(PLA is the biodegradable stuff that's not very head tolerant)

So those waiting to buy one of these support bases should be able to do so soon.


____________________
The following DIY applies to ANY DashCam! so Here's the TL;DR (Too Long, Don't Read it all "summary")

1) Buy the 36mm CPL MagFliter https://www.amazon.com/gp/B0093YC6ME
If your camera shell case is "flat" around the lens skip steps 2 & 3.

2) Find a local 3D Printer near you via http://www.makexyz.com/ (you can print things for $10!)

3) Design a flat support base ring around your lens for the metal adapter ring you'll stick on. (adapter ring has an outside diameter of 32mm and an internal diameter of 28mm)

4) Attach the 36mm CPL MagFilter (it has magnets built in around the filter) to the metal adapter ring you stuck on to the base. Twist until the window/dashboard reflections disappear and enjoy high quality rich color video captures!

You can easily take it off for night time then as well. (or even use it on your other cameras since it comes with 2 rings)
-see video and more details below, work in progress

Ok so here's everything I researched before I came to the above...........................
(I did find some cheaper alternatives that are less elegant, or may not be as clear)
__________________________________________________
I have a:
Mini 0801 Ambarella Black Box Car DVR With A2S60 + OV2710 + Full HD 30FPS + GPS
--http://dashcamtalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=1001 (jump to page 31)

I noticed that the windshield glass reflection of my dashboard is pretty bad in all recordings.

I wonder if too could retrofit a polarized filter. It would need to fit over the shallow lens nub that protrudes out ever so slightly. It measures 15mmacross in diameter (I have digital calipers on order to confirm exact size)

That would reduce window reflection and give an even clearer image. You need to be able to twist it until the angle of the light eliminates the window glare. (so can't just glue it on and get it wrong)

Here are some interesting threads that give me Ideas for my Ambarella 0801.

_______________________________________________________
Polarizing Filter on Dashcams
viewtopic.php?f=9&t=823#p7701

Here is the link that you can download sample video: http://home.comcast.net/~mozartguy/cpl.zip (EDIT)
Original video is in MOV container. I just trimmed it for file size and converted to MP4 container without any re-encoding, so it is in original quality from my DOD F900LHD.
The ring is the rubber ring from sprinkle hose. Plastic lens is from RealD3D free disposable glasses.
Important note is that you need to rotate the filter to find correct orientation so polarization works.

When filter is off you can clearly see reflection from sub woofer grill cover on the windshield.

So yeah if you download the above movie zip you'll see the before and after effects. I took two snap shots from his video.

Before:

After:

_______________________________________________________

This next guy 3D printed an exact fit! Amazing
New thread on polarizer filter for BlackVue DR500GW-H
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2321&start=10#p24114
Before / After pictures (Dashboard reflected in Windows disappears!)

2014 should make for a VERY interesting year for 3D printing innovations / applications. The sky is the limit for mod's and one of a kind creations/enhancements!

"3D Printing Will Explode in 2014 When Key Patents Expire"
http://mashable.com/2013/07/22/3d-printing-patents/

_______________________________________________________
Ok more examples..........
viewtopic.php?f=9&t=823&start=50#p14190
This guy modified one of these:
GIZMON iCA CPL FILTER (CLIP-ON FILTER) For Apple iPhone4/4S iPhone5/iPad
https://www.amazon.com/gp/B007Z9RZ2K_______________________________________________________

I'm going to work on a solution, it can't be all that hard. I have a Dremel I bought and never use! (time to put it to work)

Does anyone know of any low cost online 3D printing services out there yet? I'm pretty sure that's over-kill since the above might work just fine.

 

[jokiin]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Does anyone know of any low cost online 3D printing services out there yet? I'm pretty sure that's over-kill since the above might work just fine.

some online options discussed here viewtopic.php?p=24049#p24049

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Does anyone know of any low cost online 3D printing services out there yet? I'm pretty sure that's over-kill since the above might work just fine.

some online options discussed here viewtopic.php?p=24049#p24049

I need access to a laser scanner to create the (STL?) Auto-Cad or what ever format file it is. I wonder if I can make friends with someone in the San Francisco area that has one. I'm sure once I have a file I can send it someone to print, all options are open then for an exact print of something to fit snugly around my lens.

 

[jokiin]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Does anyone know of any low cost online 3D printing services out there yet? I'm pretty sure that's over-kill since the above might work just fine.

some online options discussed here viewtopic.php?p=24049#p24049

I need access to a laser scanner to create the (STL?) Auto-Cad or what ever format file it is. I wonder if I can make friends with someone in the San Francisco area that has one. I'm sure once I have a file I can send it someone to print, all options are open then for an exact print of something to fit snugly around my lens.

that user used the online tools from that design service to create the files from what I understand

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Oh ! Let me re-read that. (sounds promising)

EDIT: http://www.emachineshop.com/
(trying the free program now)

EDIT 2:
Better yet!
"Find a 3D printer near you.
get your designs printed by a maker or print shop in your neighborhood."
http://www.makexyz.com/

Wow there are a TON in my area. (San Francisco)
http://www.makexyz.com/3dprinters/San-F ... o-Ca-94134?

Also do I want Circular or Linear? (my first guess from what I read is Linear) EDIT: Nope we need Circular, just did a search on here for Circular

Something like this might work, but seems slightly too small
https://www.google.com/search?q=B+W+Smart+Pro+C-POL
"The B+W Smart-Pro is a circular polarising filter that can be mounted on all current iPhones and iPads as well as other smartphones and tablet PCs with a maximum lens diameter of 8mm"
Yeah never mind it's too small, here's the video anyway. (interesting)

Or maybe this? (inexpensive, might need to paint it though since it's neon)
JELLY LENS Polarizer Polarizing Filter
http://r.ebay.com/Yc1jHh

Only 99 cents here
http://r.ebay.com/BDvCWe
I ordered one to experiment, don't mind wasting $1 USD if it's a failure.
It says it's 20mm so it should easily fit my 15mm lens!
Jelly Lens for Mobile Phone Camera: Polarized Effect by Kikkerland https://www.amazon.com/gp/B001XTKYE4 via @amazon
(good review)
EDIT: at only 20mm I'll most likely have vignetting (black border around the video image), due to the wide-angle lens. I'll try it anyway but need to go bigger.

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Laser Gnomes responded!
http://www.makexyz.com/printer/lasergno ... f5260ace9b

Your conversation with Laser Gnomes
Jon Aug 30
Hello, I'm looking to have my first 3D Printing experience. I have a new DashCam (Car DVR Camera) that I want to add a Polorizing filter over. Do you thing you could help me printing a plastic ring to fit snug around my lens?
viewtopic.php?f=31&t=2343
I have pictures and measurements in the link. You'll also see a link to someone that 3D printed one for a different model Dash Camera
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2321#p24029

Thanks! This could be fun,
~Jon (in San Francisco)

Laser Gnomes Aug 30
Do you have a way of accurately measuring the existing product?
Calipers with sub MM readings are best for "snug fit".
If you are unable to do that you can drop off your item to be review and "reversed engineered" so we can model a cap for it.
Briefly reading through it claims 15mm diameter. I suspect this is a generalization although it could be "exactly" 15mm. As well we'd need to know the thickness of the glass to accommodate a channel to hold it.

Jon Aug 31
Thanks, I'll try to find Calipers but would be happy to swing by too!
I'm gathering more details based on this guys related work:
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2321&p=24246#p24246
Thanks for working with me ~Jon


EDIT: Just ordered some $8 digital CALIPERS off ebay.

EDIT 2: Laser Gnone responded again saying I can stop by any time. I let them know:
"Ok, let me order the CPL filter first. I'm trying to find out the best way to cut the lens so it will fit inside the new 3D printed ring. They also said to make sure I go bigger then I need to avoid vignetting (black border around the video image), due to the wide-angle lens. I'll have all calculations and the proper size CPL filter ready to go before we meet. While I'm at it I went ahead and ordered some Digital CALIPERS on ebay for $8 Let's wait until I sort that out before I rush over. I'll message you next week or so! Thanks again! (fun stuff)"

I just ordered the following on ebay for $4.59 USD
Green.L 30.5mm Circular Polarizing CPL PL-CIR C-PL
30.5mm "should" be big enough to prevent the vignetting (black border around the video image), due to the wide-angle lens. (but not overly big) At least this one comes black too, no need to paint anything.

I also ordered a 30.5mm-28mm Step Down Filter Ring on ebay for $1.99 USD (in case that little bit of extra gives me more surface area to mount.

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

I just re-read how erewhon is doing it on his BlackView. It looks like I need to retrofit a circular magnetic base so I can easily spin-adjust the polarization or take it off for night recordings.
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2321&start=10#p24258

I might need to just buy the higher quality lens erewhon used. It's the smallest Magnetic Circular Polarizing filter that's over the 30mm minimum
Carry Speed MagFilter 36mm CPL perfect for Canon S95/100 by Carry Speed
https://www.amazon.com/gp/B0093YC6MEvia @amazon

I'll do the water drop test as shown in the video on the cheap eBay filter I have on the way. (but I think the coating is only important for outdoor use)
So if the eBay filter I bought is good enough, I need to ADD magnetic strips. If it's not possible I'll just buy the Amazon one in the video most likely. (don't want it to be big though!)


I'm searching for a strong adhesive magnet. I wonder which one is worth it? I know the AVAC vent cover ones are very weak.
https://www.google.com/search?q=adhesive magnet
http://www.ebay.com/bhp/adhesive-magnets
hmm.....

Actually maybe I just just get a bunch of tiny ones from K&J Magnetics

I'll embed them into the new 3D printed ring base (not sure which size yet)

Rings:
http://www.kjmagnetics.com/products.asp?cat=16

Discs:
http://www.kjmagnetics.com/products.asp?cat=10

EDIT:
Better yet! This magnetic looks to be the perfect size! 3/4" inside diameter (aka 19mm), and that just over the 15mm size I need to fit) Outside diameter is 1 1/4" (aka 31.75 millimeters)
http://www.kjmagnetics.com/proddetail.asp?prod=RX4C2

_______________________________________________________________________

F#@% it, I'm going to order the same high quality 36mm MagFilter one erewhon picked for his BlackView!
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2321&start=10#p24258
https://www.amazon.com/gp/B0093YC6ME

It just so happens that it fits my Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30.

I'll be able to use it for both since it comes with two rings.
EDIT: Whoops maybe it won't fit the ZS30, I just read on review that says:
"For the 36mm MagFilter, the metal ring that adheres to the front of the lens barrel has an outside diameter of 32mm and an internal diameter of 28mm. "

So yeah the MagFilter will be easier to mate with the 3D printed adapter ring. I'll share the 3D print file once I dial it in with Laser Gnomes. Once you have the file, you can find a local 3D printer via http://www.makexyz.com/

I'll still use the cheap eBay CPL on the way for my future dual/rear camera or something. I'll still post test videos with both so we can judge the difference.

So yeah here is a template of the 36mm MagFilter metal ring adapter. (which again is only 32mm)

my scissor skills are no match for a 3D printer!

I might be able to get away with not 3D printing anything, but I still want to try 3D printing something so might as well go for it! (fun times) The floor needs to be brought up to the height of the lens at the very least. (guessing)

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

My MagFilter CPL arrived! It looks and feels high quality. The magnet is strong. As anticipated, the protruding lens of the 0801 is too tall, so the support base is needed to both widen AND raise the floor.

Here's what it should look like when it's complete. (after I create a support base around the lens for the metal stick on ring)

I'll go record some video samples holding it up by hand soon.

EDIT: Here is a quick Night CPL test. It's hard to hold up straight unsupported, and it really needs to be done in the day light, I'll post some more tests tomorrow.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/owv4xxjmv3eph ... MBA0020.TS

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

More thoughts, A CPL can only do so much.. I think this anti-reflection project needs to be a 1, 2 Punch. CPL + All Black Dash.

Multiple people have said to get a Dark DashMatt. Well my Smart's dash is already wrapped in nice black cloth mesh.
It's the silvergauges that stand out in my refection. (see my original first post)

So I should probably paint the Smart gauge Pod Rings BLACK

Flat black might look too boring so I might buy some of these Carbon Effect rings. (if I can find the right price)

EDIT: I was searching for the wrong thing, I found them on ebay searching for:
ForTwo Trim Rings
http://r.ebay.com/m9raIa

It's probably easier to just paint the silver ones though how hard can it be? Then I get the exact semi gloss level

So the options again are..........

1) Take off the silver ones and Spray paint them black. (minimal gloss or flat)

2) Buy "Carbon Effect" rings ($99 is outrageous! WTF!?!?)
smart car Pod Rings - Carbon Fiber finish Online Store - smart car Parts and Accessories

3) Buy "black" ones from ebay (search: ForTwo Trim Rings)
New Genuine Smart Fortwo Interchangeable Trim Rings for Tachometer and Clock 451 | eBay ($29)
They might be too glossy not sure?

I don't mind spray painting just not sure the right black to get

EDIT (HERE WE GO!)
instead of paying $99 for Carbon Efffect I can just add my own film!
Check out these step by step instructions with plenty of photos
Carbon Fibre Effect Dash Instrument Surrounds
A simple how-to for putting self-adhesive carbon fibre effect film on the fortwo pods and speedo shroud.
$7? Maybe I'll try it. (flat black would bee too boring)

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Here's a new Daytime video using the Circular Polarizing Lens (CPL) I made today. As you can see Silver stands out too much still, but the dashboard vanishes! (whoops left a drop of water behind from when I sprayed wiper fluid to clean, oh well)

RAW files..........

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ti2qfnw20nizj1w/AMBA0022.TS
(waiting for new firmware that will record in .MOV soon)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/wrt8hsavu9flrwf/gps0022.log (in case you want to know where I was, here's the GPS log file)

https://www.dropbox.com/s/0a19ul0hcprs26f/CPL Daylight Test Fragment of AMBA0022.mp4 (I converted to MP4)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/k3qzlu1m5nyh4 ... BA0022.srt (generated by registratorviewer)

I found someone willing to swap their BLACK Trim Rings for my Silver ones!
http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums ... post609402

 

[irononreverse]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

I had one of the polarising Jelly lenses that you crossed out in your first post and, once removed from the frame, the lens fits perfectly over the camera ring with no vignetting.

I've just got it stuck on with double sided tape at the moment. Might figure out a more permanent mount later but it's held on during today's hot weather so I might leave it.

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

I had one of the polarising Jelly lenses that you crossed out in your first post and, once removed from the frame, the lens fits perfectly over the camera ring with no vignetting.

I've just got it stuck on with double sided tape at the moment. Might figure out a more permanent mount later but it's held on during today's hot weather so I might leave it.

Wow really? that's good to know! ($1, free shipping too) My jelly is still on the way from China. I'll do the same and take comparison videos.

Can you record a test video? Did you spin optimize it to the perfect location?

This is great if you want to leave it on full time. I'm pretty sure we might want to take it off for special night time recordings/trips. (not sure until I test more)

Keep us updated!

 

[irononreverse]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

I had one of the polarising Jelly lenses that you crossed out in your first post and, once removed from the frame, the lens fits perfectly over the camera ring with no vignetting.

I've just got it stuck on with double sided tape at the moment. Might figure out a more permanent mount later but it's held on during today's hot weather so I might leave it.

Wow really? that's good to know! ($1, free shipping too) My jelly is still on the way from China. I'll do the same and take comparison videos.

Can you record a test video? Did you spin optimize it to the perfect location?

This is great if you want to leave it on full time. I'm pretty sure we might want to take it off for special night time recordings/trips. (not sure until I test more)

Keep us updated!

Yep, both the 3D glasses lens and this one have been rotated to minimise window reflections. I've put a video on dropbox, there won't be much difference from my previous videos since they're all polarised.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/372 ... MBA0031.TS

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

I had one of the polarising Jelly lenses that you crossed out in your first post and, once removed from the frame, the lens fits perfectly over the camera ring with no vignetting.

I've just got it stuck on with double sided tape at the moment. Might figure out a more permanent mount later but it's held on during today's hot weather so I might leave it.

Wow really? that's good to know! ($1, free shipping too) My jelly is still on the way from China. I'll do the same and take comparison videos.

Can you record a test video? Did you spin optimize it to the perfect location?

This is great if you want to leave it on full time. I'm pretty sure we might want to take it off for special night time recordings/trips. (not sure until I test more)

Keep us updated!

Yep, both the 3D glasses lens and this one have been rotated to minimise window reflections. I've put a video on dropbox, there won't be much difference from my previous videos since they're all polarised.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/372 ... MBA0031.TS

Looks good, what reflection I can see is minimal/transparent. Is that a white coffee mug? (can barely make it out)
Are you happy with night recordings since you leave the filter on 24/7?

 

[irononreverse]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Looks good, what reflection I can see is minimal/transparent. Is that a white coffee mug? (can barely make it out)
Are you happy with night recordings since you leave the filter on 24/7?

It's actually a cream coloured sunshine buddy sitting on a toilet. Like this one.

Haven't had a chance to test it at night yet.

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Looks good, what reflection I can see is minimal/transparent. Is that a white coffee mug? (can barely make it out)
Are you happy with night recordings since you leave the filter on 24/7?

It's actually a cream coloured sunshine buddy sitting on a toilet. Like this one.

Haven't had a chance to test it at night yet.

Oh, haha :lol:
That was the furthest thing from my guesses!

 

[Street Guardian USA]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

I met with Justin from LaserGnomes today for dinner in San Francisco.
http://www.makexyz.com/printer/lasergno ... f5260ace9b
He has a degree in 3D modeling/design! I learned ton about the 3D printer industry and what the future may hold. (fascinating)

Justin suggested we use the unused mini jack A/V port as a way to anchor/secure a support base for my metal sticky ring. He's going to barrow my 0801 when I drop it off (possibly this weekend) to get accurate measurements and begin the trial/error prototyping. I would have let him have it today but I want to get the firmware upgraded first. (see other 0801 thread) I'll post the drafts as I get them. We made note not to cover up the mic etc. (thanks to the internal photos in the 0801 thread) So that's that.

I stopped at the hardware store after my meeting with Lasergnomes for my next issue.
As you know, my the Silver trim rings from my smart car dashboard pop up gauges show up on the reflection. (even with CPL) I took it upon myself to buy a $5.95 can of black plastic-dip. They turned out great! (4 coats) Plasti-dip rocks, it's totally safe and can be peeled off if you don't want it later on. People coat their whole cars in the stuff!
http://dipyourcar.com



I'm a total fan now. My Gauges look and feel like they have a custom high quality black rubber ring!

Before:

After:

Ok, so now that I muted my gauges trim rings, I can focus on the CPL!

 

[almaz]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Gee, man!
Sounds like you're planning to rebuild your car for this camera.

Did you try maybe reposition your camera OR maybe attach some piece of dark paper or plastic directly underneath the camera to kill reflection?

 

[irononreverse]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Gee, man!
Sounds like you're planning to rebuild your car for this camera.

Did you try maybe reposition your camera OR maybe attach some piece of dark paper or plastic directly underneath the camera to kill reflection?

The reflection is actually coming from the front, as it's reflected off the windscreen. There's no way anything underneath the camera will block it.

You'd have to completely cover your dash in flat, black matte material to stop it showing up

 

[almaz]

Re: Polarizing Filter to Reduce Windshield Dashboard Reflect

Gee, man!
Sounds like you're planning to rebuild your car for this camera.

Did you try maybe reposition your camera OR maybe attach some piece of dark paper or plastic directly underneath the camera to kill reflection?

The reflection is actually coming from the front, as it's reflected off the windscreen. There's no way anything underneath the camera will block it.

You'd have to completely cover your dash in flat, black matte material to stop it showing up

I BET there is a way. That so called shield supposed to be attached underneath camera's lens and extend to where it reflects from the glass, BUT of course can NOT block the view. Very easy to do, ESPECIALLY since you're planning to leave camera for all the time.