Dual Microlens Array for Fast Light Field Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light field cameras face a challenge in quickly switching between different imaging modes due to the time-consuming process of moving microlens arrays into or out of the optical path, resulting in a slower mode transition.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of two distance-adjustable microlens arrays, one planoconvex and the other planoconcave, positioned between the main lens and the image sensor, allowing for rapid adjustment of their distance to switch between light field and non-light field modes, effectively mimicking the optical performance of a single microlens or flat glass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a microlens array is moved into or out of the optical path to switch between light field mode and normal mode, then the camera can implement different imaging modes, but the switch time becomes relatively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical moving system with an optical modulation system. Instead of physically moving the microlens array in and out of the optical path, the invention uses a liquid crystal layer that can optically modulate between transparent (normal mode) and microlens array equivalent (light field mode) states through electrical control, dramatically reducing switch time from mechanical movement to electrical response time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the liquid crystal layer by applying different voltages. By controlling the liquid crystal's optical properties (transparency vs. microlens array equivalence) through voltage parameters, the system can switch between imaging modes without mechanical movement, resolving the time delay issue
2Adaptability or versatility
If a microlens array and flat glass are moved to switch between modes, then the camera can function as both light field and ordinary camera, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the liquid crystal layer multi-functional by designing it to serve both as a transparent optical element (equivalent to flat glass for normal mode) and as an equivalent microlens array (for light field mode) depending on the applied voltage. This single component replaces the need for separate microlens array and flat glass components, reducing structural complexity while maintaining dual functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal layer acts as an intermediary that can transform between two optical states. Instead of directly switching between physical microlens array and flat glass components, the liquid crystal mediates the optical path by changing its effective optical properties, simplifying the overall system structure
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 solution enables fast switching between imaging modes, reducing the switch time and maintaining a compact structure, while supporting flexible and efficient operation between high-resolution and light field imaging.
Implementation Method 1
the first microlens array includes M*N first microlenses, and the second microlens array includes M*N second microlenses... the second microlens is a planoconvex lens if the first microlens is a planoconcave lens, the second microlens is a planoconcave lens if the first microlens is a planoconvex lens
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes a main lens, an image sensor, a first microlens array and a second microlens array, where the first and the second microlens arrays are disposed between the main lens and the image sensor. The first microlens array is disposed between the second microlens array and the main lens. The first microlens array is arranged in parallel with the second microlens array. The first microlens array includes M*N first microlenses. The second microlens array includes M*N second microlenses. The M*N first microlenses are in a one-to-one correspondence to the M*N second microlenses in a concave-convex manner. When a first microlens is a planoconcave lens, a second microlens is a planoconvex lens, and when the first microlens is the planoconvex lens, the second microlens is the planoconcave lens. A driving apparatus is configured to adjust a distance between the first microlens array and the second microlens array.