Camera Module for 3D Surface Imaging with Movable-Mirror Autofocus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive body examination techniques, such as X-ray and MRI, require large machines and cannot be used on a large part of the population due to radiation side-effects, and speed is a concern for modeling systems as subjects have limited stillness.
Innovation Solution
A camera module combining a 3D modeling device and a camera arrangement with a movable mirror and focusing lens, allowing for automated surface modeling by obtaining distances and focusing based on these distances to acquire high-quality images efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging techniques (X-ray, MRI, CT) are used to examine the body, then detailed internal structure information can be obtained, but the equipment requires large machines that can only be installed in hospitals or larger clinics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical imaging systems (X-ray, MRI, CT machines) with a camera-based optical system. The 3D modeling device uses optical principles to capture body surface geometry, eliminating the need for large-scale mechanical scanning equipment while maintaining detailed measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a 3D digital model (copy) of the body surface by capturing multiple images from different angles and synthesizing them into a complete 3D representation. This virtual model serves as an alternative to physical imaging procedures, providing detailed anatomical information without requiring large imaging machines.
2Measurement precision
If ionizing radiation techniques (X-ray, PET) are used for body examination, then internal structure and function information can be obtained, but they cannot be used on a large part of the population due to radiation side-effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes ionizing radiation-based imaging with optical imaging techniques. The camera module captures reflected light from the body surface to create 3D models, completely eliminating exposure to ionizing radiation while maintaining the ability to obtain detailed body information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmless reflected light from the body surface into useful imaging information. Instead of using harmful radiation to penetrate and image internal structures, the system uses the body's own reflected light to create surface 3D models, turning a potentially harmful approach into a safe alternative.
3Productivity
If the camera captures images of the entire body surface at once, then imaging speed is improved, but the focus cannot be optimized for different surface parts with varying distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the body surface into multiple regions or zones at different distances from the camera. The focusing lens is controlled to adjust focus for specific segments based on their distance, allowing each region to be sharply imaged while maintaining overall imaging speed through automated focus adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic focus adjustment where the focusing lens automatically changes its focal plane based on the distance to the current target area. This dynamic focusing enables the camera to maintain sharp focus across different body surface parts while capturing images at high speed through automated control.
4Productivity
If multiple cameras are used to capture different body parts simultaneously, then imaging completeness is improved, but the spatial relationship and parallax between cameras become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera functions into a single integrated camera module with a movable mirror system. This unified structure simplifies the spatial relationships by providing a consistent reference frame, while still capturing multiple body parts through the mirror's ability to redirect light from different angles to the same camera sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable mirror as an intermediary element between the camera and the body surface. The mirror acts as a flexible directional control that can be adjusted to capture different body parts, simplifying the system architecture compared to using multiple fixed cameras while maintaining imaging completeness.
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 efficient and automated 3D modeling of body surfaces with improved handling and speed, allowing for simultaneous imaging of both sides of a subject without the need for large machines or ionizing radiation.
Implementation Method 1
a movable mirror for sequentially directing light from each of said parts of the surface into the focusing lens
Implementation Method 2
a focusing lens for focusing light reflected on the surface of the body onto the camera sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a camera module (400). The camera module comprises a 3D modelling device (302) for obtaining respective distances to a plurality of adjacent parts of a surface of a body. The camera module also comprises a camera arrangement for acquiring images of the parts of the surface, wherein the camera arrangement comprises at least one camera (306; 310). Said camera comprises a camera sensor for producing said images, a focusing lens for focusing light reflected on the surface of the body onto the camera sensor, and a movable mirror for sequentially directing light from each of said parts of the surface into the focusing lens. The camera module also comprises a housing (401) enclosing both the 3D modelling device and the camera arrangement. The focusing lens is automatically controllable to set a focus of the camera based on the obtained distances.