Imaging Lens Arrays for Compact Autofocus Through Depth-Plane Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capturing devices face challenges in achieving high resolution and sensitivity while maintaining a compact size due to the use of multiple small lenses, which complicates autofocusing processes.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a lens array and sensor array that determines a scene depth plane by comparing pixel values across multiple lenses, adjusting the lens position to focus on the determined depth plane, allowing for high-resolution and sensitive imaging despite a compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple small lenses are used to reduce device volume, then the volume of the image capturing device decreases, but the manufacturing precision and autofocusing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device is segmented into multiple independent lens units, each with its own imaging lens and sensor. This segmentation allows each lens to be small and compact while the collective array achieves the desired imaging performance. The segmentation principle directly addresses the contradiction by enabling volume reduction through multiple small lenses while managing precision requirements through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each lens unit in the array serves multiple functions: individual imaging, depth information acquisition through parallax, and collective scene reconstruction. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high-resolution imaging and depth plane determination simultaneously, offsetting the increased manufacturing complexity with enhanced functional capability.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple small lenses are used to reduce device volume, then the volume of the image capturing device decreases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple lens units are arranged in a compact array configuration where lenses and sensors are nested or closely integrated. This nesting approach minimizes the overall device volume while containing the complexity within a structured, organized layout rather than scattered components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical autofocus mechanisms with computational methods. The processor automatically determines depth planes by comparing images from multiple lenses and calculates intensity differences, substituting mechanical adjustment complexity with algorithmic processing.
3Volume of moving object
If multiple small lenses are used to reduce device volume, then the volume of the image capturing device decreases, but the measurement precision for depth determination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback through image comparison between reference and target lenses to determine depth plane. By calculating intensity differences and comparing pixel values across multiple lenses, the processor iteratively determines the optimal focal plane, providing precise depth measurement despite the compact lens configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses more lens units than a single lens would provide, creating excessive redundancy in the imaging system. This excess of lenses enables precise depth determination through multiple comparison points and intensity difference calculations, compensating for the small size of individual lenses.
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 device achieves high-resolution and high-sensitivity imaging with a compact design by accurately determining and focusing on the scene depth plane, enhancing image quality and sensitivity in low light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging lens array including a plurality of imaging lenses each with a same focal length, the plurality of imaging lenses being configured to capture a scene; a sensing array comprising a plurality of sensors configured to receive light passing through the plurality of imaging lenses
Implementation Method 2
determine a scene depth plane corresponding to the scene based on a comparison, for each of a plurality of candidate depths, between reference pixel values that are based on first sensors of the plurality of sensors corresponding to a reference imaging lens of the plurality of imaging lenses and target pixel values that are based on second sensors of the plurality of sensors corresponding to a target imaging lens of the plurality of image lenses
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes an imaging lens array including a plurality of imaging lenses each with a same focal length, the plurality of imaging lenses being configured to capture a scene; a sensing array comprising a plurality of sensors configured to receive light passing through the plurality of imaging lenses; a processor configured to determine a scene depth plane corresponding to the scene based on a comparison, for each of a plurality of candidate depths, between reference pixel values based on first sensors of the plurality of sensors corresponding to a reference imaging lens of the plurality of imaging lenses and target pixel values that are based on second sensors of the plurality of sensors corresponding to a target imaging lens of the plurality of image lenses; and a lens driver configured to position the imaging lens array to be disposed at a point corresponding to the scene depth plane.