Image Sensor Lens Array for Compact High Resolution Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capturing apparatuses face challenges in reducing size while maintaining image resolution and sensitivity, especially in low illuminance environments, due to the inverse relationship between sensor size and light incidence, leading to decreased performance with smaller lenses and sensors.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor with a lens array comprising multiple lens groups of varying sizes and a sensing array with a corresponding number of sensing elements, where the number of sensing elements is determined based on the number of lenses in each lens group, allowing for improved resolution and sensitivity through compound eye vision image processing and light field information rearrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the size of the sensor decreases, then the size of the image capturing apparatus is reduced, but the amount of light incident on the sensor decreases leading to decreased image resolution and sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple lens groups (first lens group with first plurality of lenses, second lens group with second plurality of lenses) that capture light from different directions. Each lens group focuses light onto different regions of the sensing array, enabling the small sensor to receive sufficient light by distributing the light collection function across multiple lens-sensor pathways rather than relying on a single large lens-sensor pair.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional approach by arranging lens groups and sensing elements in specific spatial configurations (different positions, orientations, and depths). The sensing array includes sensing elements at different locations that receive light from different lens groups, creating a multi-dimensional light field sampling approach that compensates for the reduced light collection area of smaller sensors.
2Length of moving object
If the size of the lens decreases, then the focal length of the lens decreases reducing the size of the image capturing apparatus, but the light gathering capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple small lenses are merged in function to achieve the light gathering capability of a larger lens. The first lens group and second lens group work together, with each lens focusing light onto corresponding sensing elements. The combined light from multiple small lenses distributed across different sensing elements provides equivalent or superior light gathering capability compared to a single large lens, while maintaining shorter focal lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
Each lens group serves multiple functions: capturing light from specific directions, focusing light onto corresponding sensing elements, and contributing to different regions of the final image. The first lens group and second lens group both perform light collection and focusing, with their combined output providing comprehensive scene coverage and enhanced light gathering that compensates for individual lens size limitations.
3Volume of moving object
If multi-lens including small lenses is used to reduce the size of the image capturing apparatus, then the size is reduced, but the complexity of lens arrangement and sensing element configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the sensing array are assigned different functions based on which lens group's light they receive. Sensing elements are positioned and configured to receive light from specific lens groups, with each sensing element optimized for its specific light reception role. This local specialization simplifies the overall configuration by creating clear, localized functional zones rather than requiring complex universal design for all elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangements where the first lens group and second lens group are positioned and configured differently, with lenses and sensing elements arranged in non-uniform patterns optimized for their specific light collection paths. This asymmetric design allows each component to be optimized for its specific function rather than requiring symmetric uniformity, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining compact size.
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 solution enables the restoration of high-resolution images with enhanced sensitivity and reduced size, effectively addressing the limitations of smaller lenses and sensors by optimizing the arrangement of lens and sensing elements and utilizing advanced image processing techniques.
Implementation Method 1
a lens array including a plurality of lens groups, each of the plurality of lens groups including at least one lens element
Implementation Method 2
a sensing array including a plurality of sensing elements spaced apart from the lens array and configured to sense light passing through the lens array
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor and an image sensing method are provided. The image sensor may restore a high resolution image with respect to a high magnification based on sensing information corresponding to different fields of view (FOVs) and that is received through lens elements having a same focal length and different lens sizes.