Light Field Imaging Using Bessel-Beam Generation and Micro-Lens Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light field image capturing apparatuses face limitations in improving both angular and spatial resolution due to interference between micro-lenses and the precision and speed constraints of stepper motors in multifocal differential focal length measurement.
Innovation Solution
A light field image capturing apparatus that generates Bessel-beams using slits or conical lenses to enhance directional electric field distribution, with adjustable focal lengths and micro-lens elements to extend focal lengths and improve resolution, along with an image capturing and analyzing unit for calibrating circles of confusion to align slits and micro-lenses for precise focusing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single micro-lens array is used to perform multi-angle domain pixel information, then the device complexity is reduced, but the image resolution is limited due to interference between neighboring micro-lenses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single micro-lens array into multiple independent micro-lens units, each corresponding to a specific slit. This segmentation eliminates interference between neighboring micro-lenses while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure, thereby resolving the contradiction between device complexity and image resolution.
2Length of stationary object
If a single pinhole is used to achieve super-long focal length based on conjugate focal scanning, then the focal length is extended, but the scanning speed and precision are limited by the stepper motor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical stepper motor scanning system with an optical system using slits and micro-lenses that can achieve focal length extension and scanning without mechanical movement. This substitution eliminates the speed and precision limitations of mechanical motors while maintaining super-long focal length capability.
3Measurement precision
If the aperture is narrowed down to an optical fiber coupling apparatus to enhance directional light field distribution, then the angular resolution is improved, but the spatial resolution deteriorates due to the trade-off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by using slits arranged in specific patterns combined with micro-lenses, rather than simply narrowing the aperture in one dimension. This multi-dimensional optical path control simultaneously improves angular resolution through directional beam generation and maintains spatial resolution through proper focal length management.
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
This approach effectively enhances angular and spatial resolution, achieving high-quality images with detailed depth maps and improved assembly precision, enabling quick global scanning and mass production integration.
Implementation Method 1
generating Bessel-beam to enhance directional electric field distribution by slits
Implementation Method 2
the beam generation unit includes plurality slits or conical lenses arranged in an array manner and configured to generate the Bessel-beams respectively
Implementation Method 3
each micro-lens element is configured to determine a focus point generated after the Bessel-beam passes through each micro-lens element, and a focal length of a distance between the focus point and the micro-lens element
Data Source
AI summary
A light field image capturing apparatus includes: a main lens, configured to transmit light of an object environment, and including an optical axis; a beam generation unit, configured to receive the light transmitted by the main lens and generate plurality Bessel-beams, where the beam generation unit includes plurality slits or conical lenses arranged in an array manner and configured to generate the Bessel-beam respectively; a micro-lens unit, configured to receive the Bessel-beam generated by the beam generation unit, and including plurality micro-lens elements corresponding to the beam generation unit, wherein each micro-lens element is configured to determine a focus point generated after the Bessel-beam passes through each micro-lens element, and a focal length of a distance between the focus point and the micro-lens element; and a light sensing unit, including a focal plane, and configured to enable the focus point to be focused on the focal plane.