Funnel-Array Image Sensor for Single-Shot 3D Depth Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detectors are limited in acquiring three-dimensional image information using a single imaging device, often requiring complex equipment or depth information extraction through image processing, which is restricted by the depth of field.
Innovation Solution
A detector comprising an array of funnel elements and photosensitive elements, where the funnel elements propagate electromagnetic radiation from one plane to another, allowing simultaneous detection of image information from two or more planes, enabling the capture of three-dimensional data in a single exposure without the need for complex equipment or depth extraction through image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional equipment or multiple imaging devices are used to acquire depth information, then three-dimensional information can be obtained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension by capturing multiple focal planes at different time points within a single exposure cycle. The detector sequentially focuses on different planes (first plane, second plane, etc.) and captures image information at each focal plane, thereby obtaining three-dimensional depth information without adding spatial complexity through multiple devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic focal plane adjustment where the detector can shift its focal plane between a first focal plane and a second focal plane during the exposure period. This dynamic focusing capability allows the same detector to capture image information from multiple depths by timing the exposure to coincide with different focal positions
2Device complexity
If image processing is used to extract depth information from two-dimensional images, then some depth information can be obtained, but measurement precision is limited by depth of field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary optical focusing before detection by adjusting the focal plane to specific positions (first focal plane, second focal plane) before capturing image information. This pre-focusing ensures that when the detector captures data, the light from specific depth planes is already converged at the photosensitive elements, enabling precise depth measurement without relying on post-processing algorithms
3Measurement precision
If multiple imaging devices are used to record additional depth information, then three-dimensional information can be acquired, but acquisition speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple imaging functions into a single detector by combining the depth measurement capability with the standard image capture function. The same photosensitive elements that capture two-dimensional image data also capture depth information by detecting light focused at different planes at different times, eliminating the need for separate depth-sensing devices and enabling simultaneous acquisition of both 2D and 3D information
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 fast and simple acquisition of three-dimensional image information using a single imaging device, improving depth resolution and reducing equipment complexity while maintaining high two-dimensional image resolution.
Implementation Method 1
directing the incident radiation into a relatively smaller area of the associated photosensitive region by, in part, one or more of waveguiding and scattering
Implementation Method 2
directing the incident radiation into a relatively smaller area of the associated photosensitive region by, in part, one or more of waveguiding and scattering
Implementation Method 3
an array of photosensitive elements for detecting electromagnetic radiation incident on the array of photosensitive elements
Data Source
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AI summary
A detector for detecting electromagnetic radiation comprises: an array (202) of funnel elements (102) for propagating electromagnetic radiation from a second plane towards a first plane, wherein entrance ends (104) of the array (202) of funnel elements (102) define a second plane, wherein the entrance end (104) has a size larger than half of a longest wavelength of electromagnetic radiation for capturing electromagnetic radiation in focus at the second plane, and wherein an exit end (106) of the funnel element (102) has a size smaller than half of the first wavelength of electromagnetic radiation; and an array (204) of photosensitive elements (110) for detecting electromagnetic radiation defining a first plane, wherein each funnel element (102) is associated with a photosensitive element (110) such that image information corresponding to electromagnetic radiation being in focus at the second plane and at the first plane is detected by the array (204).