Multi-matrix depth of field image sensor

Abstract

A technique for imaging involves wavefront coded optics (112) and multiple filters. In a non-limiting embodiment, a system developed according to the technique includes wavefront coded optics and a multi-filter image processor (124). In alternative embodiments, imaging optics may come before wavefront coded optics or vice versa. In another non-limiting embodiment, a method according to the technique includes selecting a focus distance, wavefront encoding light reflected from or emitted by an object, converting the light to a spatially blurred image, and processing the spatially blurred image using a filter associated with the selected focus distance.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to an optical device, and more particularly, the present invention relates to wavefront coding systems. Background technique [0002] Optical systems used to render or view images include devices that have a property called depth of field (DOF). Cameras aimed at general consumers have a relatively wide DOF, which means that objects in a wide range of distances can be relatively well focused. Professional photographers typically use cameras with a relatively narrow DOF, which tends to blur objects that are not at a given distance, such as the distance of the subject of the photo. Microscopes, telescopes, fingerprint readers, and other optical devices will generally have a DOF appropriate for a given situation. [0003] A fixed focal length optical system generally has a fixed lens and a wide DOF. A wide DOF is beneficial in fixed focal length optics because the focal length does not change. A digital camera provided wit...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

On the other hand, systems that do not take advantage of wavefront encoding typically have to reduce the aperture size to achieve wide DOF, which reduces the amount of light reaching the lens

Some consumers may feel that while wavefront encoded optics may be more advanced than non-wavefront encoded optics with fixed focal length lenses, both technologies are an optical system that is less flexible than devices with multifocal length lenses

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