Dual-Optic Imaging Layout for Compact Stereo Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices face challenges in achieving accurate distance calculation while maintaining a compact size, as increasing the baseline length for stereo cameras increases device size, and methods like pupil division limit resolution and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device employs two optical systems forming images on non-overlapping regions of a single imaging element, allowing for wide-angle capture and improved resolution and accuracy by superimposing and separating images using optical elements and image processing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the baseline length is increased for stereo cameras to achieve accurate distance calculation, then measurement precision is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple imaging elements into a single imaging element by forming multiple images (first image and second image) on different regions of the same imaging element. This eliminates the need for separate imaging elements spaced apart, thereby achieving accurate distance calculation without increasing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a spatial separation approach (multiple imaging elements along the baseline) to a planar arrangement approach (multiple imaging regions on a single imaging element plane). This dimensional reorganization allows multiple imaging functions to coexist without increasing the baseline length, thus maintaining compact device size while preserving measurement precision.
2Volume of moving object
If pupil division method is used to reduce device size, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing precision and resolution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging element into multiple distinct imaging regions (first imaging region and second imaging region), each dedicated to capturing specific images. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining high resolution, avoiding the precision limitations of pupil division methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The single imaging element serves multiple functions by incorporating both the first imaging region and second imaging region, each performing distinct imaging tasks. This multi-functional design achieves the benefits of device size reduction while maintaining high manufacturing precision and resolution through proper optical design.
3Volume of moving object
If a single imaging element is used instead of multiple imaging elements, then device size is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent rearranges the imaging architecture from a three-dimensional spatial separation (multiple imaging elements along the baseline) to a two-dimensional planar arrangement (multiple imaging regions on a single element). This allows the single imaging element to capture both first and second images with sufficient resolution for accurate distance calculation while maintaining a compact device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions into a single imaging element by creating distinct first and second imaging regions. This merging maintains measurement precision through proper optical design while achieving the size reduction benefits of using a single imaging element.
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
The configuration enables compact imaging devices to capture wide-angle images with enhanced resolution and accuracy of distance data without increasing size, facilitating efficient distance measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical element that forms an image of light coming from a subject as a first image onto an area including a first imaging region of an imaging element
Implementation Method 2
a second optical element that forms an image of light coming from the subject as a second image onto an area including a second imaging region of an imaging element
Implementation Method 3
a fifth optical element that causes light traveling from the first optical element toward the second imaging region to travel toward inside the first imaging region
Implementation Method 4
a sixth optical element that causes light traveling from the second optical element toward the first imaging region to travel toward inside the second imaging region
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical device includes a first optical element and a second optical element. The first optical element forms an image of light coming from a subject as a first image onto an area including a first imaging region of an imaging element and wider than the first imaging region. The second optical element forms an image of light coming from the subject as a second image onto an area including a second imaging region of an imaging element and wider than the second imaging region.