Adjustable Focusing Element for Multi-Focus Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image capture devices can only focus on a single distance, leading to potential loss or blurring of important information if the wrong focus distance is used.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize an adjustable focusing element within an optical arrangement to alternate between multiple focus distances during image capture, synchronized with a rolling shutter, allowing for multiple focus distances within a single image, and a processor to identify and rescale regions for focused images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single focus distance is used in image capture, then the device complexity is reduced, but the loss of information increases when the wrong focus distance is selected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image capture process into multiple focus distance acquisitions. The adjustable focussing element captures images at different focus distances (e.g., first focus distance and second focus distance) during a single capture operation, dividing the monofocal image into multiple focal planes that can be processed separately to recover information that would otherwise be lost
Solution Approach 2:
The optical arrangement is designed to perform multiple functions: it can capture images at a first focus distance, a second focus distance, or multiple focus distances within a single capture operation. This multi-functional capability allows the same optical system to serve both simple single-focus and complex multi-focus requirements without needing separate dedicated systems
2Loss of information
If multiple focus distances are captured simultaneously, then the loss of information is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to adjustable focussing elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic adjustable focussing element that can change focus distance during the image capture process. This dynamic adjustment allows the optical system to capture multiple focus distances sequentially or simultaneously within a single exposure, enabling information recovery without requiring multiple static camera systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple focus distance acquisitions into a single image capture operation. By combining the capture of first and second focus distances (and potentially more) into one unified process using a single adjustable focussing element, the system reduces the complexity that would arise from using multiple separate cameras or capture operations
3Productivity
If focus distance alternation is synchronized with rolling shutter, then image capture efficiency is improved, but the precision of focus distance control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements synchronization between the adjustable focussing element and the rolling shutter through coordinated control. The system uses feedback mechanisms to ensure that focus distance changes are precisely timed with shutter operations, maintaining control precision while enabling efficient multi-focus capture within the rolling shutter framework
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 capturing images with multiple focus distances, reducing blurring and allowing users to select which objects are in focus post-capture, and generating depth maps for applications like filtering and 3D imaging.
Implementation Method 1
an optical arrangement comprising at least one adjustable focussing element; wherein the adjustable focussing element is configured to alternate between a first focus distance and a second focus distance as an image is captured by the image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, method and computer program wherein the apparatus includes an image sensor, an optical arrangement including at least one adjustable focusing element; wherein the adjustable focusing element is configured to alternate between a first focus distance and a second focus distance as an image is captured by the image sensor.