Imaging Apparatus Pupil Segmentation for Shape Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging techniques require complex optical systems and struggle with aberration and occlusion issues when obtaining precise shape information, such as distance and surface normal information, due to the use of multiple optical systems and difficulties in matching parallax images.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus that uses a single optical system to obtain parallax images by guiding light flux through different areas of the pupil to different pixels, combining photometric stereo methods with parallax image processing to calculate precise shape information, including surface normal and distance information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple optical systems are used to obtain parallax images, then shape information can be obtained, but the apparatus becomes complex and the size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single optical system's pupil is divided into multiple regions, with each region directing light to different pixels on the imaging element. This segmentation allows multiple parallax images to be obtained from a single optical system, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A single optical system performs multiple functions by directing light through different pupil regions to different pixels, enabling it to capture multiple parallax images simultaneously. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate optical systems while maintaining shape information measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple optical systems are used to obtain parallax images, then shape information can be obtained, but aberration and occlusion make matching difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the pupil into regions and directing each to different pixels within a single optical system, the invention avoids the aberration and occlusion problems inherent in multiple optical systems. All pixels share the same optical path, ensuring consistent image quality and reliable matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical system creates multiple virtual copies of the imaging process by directing light from different pupil regions to different pixels. These copies share the same optical characteristics, eliminating the need for complex calibration and matching between independent optical systems.
3Measurement precision
If multiple optical systems are used to obtain parallax images, then shape information can be obtained, but calibration of each optical system is required
Solution Approach 1:
The single optical system serves multiple functions by capturing multiple parallax images through pupil region segmentation. Since all images originate from the same optical system, calibration is performed once for the entire system rather than requiring separate calibration for each optical system, greatly simplifying the manufacturing and setup process.
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 approach simplifies the imaging apparatus structure, reduces the impact of optical aberrations, and enables precise calculation of shape information with improved resolution and accuracy, particularly along object edges and boundaries.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging element that obtains a plurality of parallax images by receiving a plurality of light flux that passes through different areas of a pupil of an optical system by different pixels
Implementation Method 2
a first obtaining unit that obtains first shape information of an object based on a plurality of photometric stereo images that are shot by using the imaging element in light source conditions that include at least three different light source conditions
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an imaging element for obtaining a plurality of parallax images by receiving a plurality of light flux that passes through different areas of a pupil of an optical system by different pixels, and a processor for performing image processing on an image that is obtained by using the imaging element. The processor includes a first obtaining unit that obtains first shape information based on a plurality of photometric stereo images that are shot by using the imaging element in light source conditions that include at least three different light source conditions, a second obtaining unit that obtains second shape information by using the plurality of parallax images, and a third obtaining unit that obtains third shape information by using the first shape information and the second shape information.