Imaging Apparatus Merging 3D and 2D Image Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging technologies face challenges in capturing and reproducing stereoscopic images accurately, as they often result in incorrect object shapes due to differences in light flux reception by photodiodes, leading to complex file management and incorrect image display when one file is lost or misinterpreted.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a plurality of photoelectric conversion units that output image signals from different regions of an exit pupil, processing these signals to generate combined image data for two-dimensional display, and recording left-eye, right-eye, and combined image data in the same file to ensure accurate shape representation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If left-eye image data and right-eye image data are recorded as separate files, then stereoscopic image viewing is enabled, but file management becomes complex and image reproduction fails when one file is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines left-eye image data and right-eye image data into a single image file, eliminating the need for separate file management while ensuring that both images remain together. This merging approach prevents image reproduction failure and simplifies file handling structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The single image file serves multiple functions: it stores both left-eye and right-eye image data for stereoscopic viewing, maintains synchronization between the two images, and enables reliable reproduction regardless of file handling conditions. This multi-functional design enhances both reliability and ease of management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If photodiodes capture light flux from different exit pupil regions, then stereoscopic image capture is enabled, but object shape accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an image processing unit that acts as an intermediary between the photodiodes and the final image output. This processing unit corrects the distorted object shapes captured by the photodiodes, restoring accurate geometric representation while preserving the stereoscopic viewing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing unit applies parameter changes to the captured image data, adjusting geometric parameters to correct shape distortions. By modifying these parameters, the system maintains stereoscopic functionality while improving object shape accuracy in the final output.
3Quantity of substance
If only left-eye and right-eye image data are stored, then file size is reduced, but two-dimensional display capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges left-eye image data, right-eye image data, and combined two-dimensional image data into a single integrated file structure. This combination enables the file to support multiple display formats (stereoscopic and two-dimensional) without requiring separate files, maintaining versatility while managing data efficiently.
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 enhances reproducibility of images by accurately reflecting the object's shape in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional displays, simplifying file management and ensuring correct image reproduction even when viewed from different angles.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging element comprising a plurality of photoelectric conversion units configured to output a plurality of image signals by photoelectrically converting light fluxes
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging element includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion units that output an image signal for each pixel through a micro lens. An imaging signal processing circuit separates image signals output from the imaging element into a left-eye image signal and a right-eye image signal. An image combining circuit generates combined image data by performing arithmetic average processing for left-eye image data and right-eye image data. A recording medium control I/F unit controls to record left-eye image data and right-eye image data for use in 3D display and combined image data for use in 2D display in different regions in an image file.