Dual-Pixel Imaging Apparatus for 2D-3D Seamless Parallax Image Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging apparatuses fail to generate images that can be simultaneously viewed by both 3D glasses and non-3D glasses wearers without double images, as they rely on a single imaging optical system to create parallax images, which are not compatible with viewers without 3D glasses.
Innovation Solution
The imaging apparatus employs a dual-pixel system with parallax Lt and Rt pixels, along with non-parallax N pixels, where the pixel values at the optical axis in both parallax images are greater than or equal to 50% of the peak pixel values, allowing for the generation of 2D-3D seamless images by adjusting the aperture shape and sensitivity of the pixels to ensure overlap and reduce parallax.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single imaging optical system is used to generate left and right parallax images, then the device complexity is reduced, but the image quality deteriorates because non-3D glasses wearers see double images and cannot view the image naturally
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging element is segmented into multiple pixel types: non-parallax pixels for center light beams and parallax pixels for off-center light beams. This segmentation allows the system to capture both 2D and 3D image information simultaneously using a single optical system, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and image quality for different viewers
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the imaging element have different functional qualities. The center region (non-parallax pixels) captures light for 2D viewing, while off-center regions (parallax pixels) capture light for 3D viewing. This local differentiation enables the single optical system to produce images suitable for both 3D glasses wearers and non-wearers
2Adaptability or versatility
If parallax pixels are used to capture off-center light beams, then 3D image capability is improved, but the pixel sensitivity and overlap for unfocused objects deteriorates, causing double images for non-3D viewers
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system dynamically adapts to different focusing states. When objects are unfocused, the system ensures that parallax pixels still capture sufficient overlapping light information by adjusting the optical path and aperture, maintaining reliable image capture for both 2D and 3D viewing conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system includes intermediary components (aperture, optical path design) that mediate between the incoming light and the parallax pixels. These intermediaries ensure that even for unfocused objects, sufficient light reaches the parallax pixels to maintain image reliability and prevent double imaging for non-3D viewers
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 a 2D-3D seamless image generation, where 3D glasses wearers perceive a stereoscopic image and non-3D glasses wearers see a natural 2D image without double images, by effectively managing pixel sensitivity and aperture shapes to ensure proper overlap and reduced parallax.
Implementation Method 1
a first pixel that receives a first partial light beam, within a subject light beam incident thereto through an optical system, shifted in a first direction orthogonal to an optical axis of the optical system
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus including an image generating section that generates first parallax image data based on the output of the first pixel and second parallax image data based on the output of the second pixel. When the imaging element captures an image of an object point located in an unfocused region on the optical axis, a pixel value of a center pixel corresponding to the optical axis in the first parallax image data is greater than or equal to 50% of a pixel value of a peak pixel in the first parallax image data, and a pixel value of a center pixel corresponding to the optical axis in the second parallax image data is greater than or equal to 50% of a pixel value of a peak pixel in the second parallax image data.