Computational Inverse Imaging for Simple Lens Aberration Correction

The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of multiple lens elements with a computational system. Instead of using complex physical lens assemblies to correct aberrations, the invention captures images through simple optics and then applies digital image processing algorithms to compensate for geometric distortion, chromatic aberration, and other optical defects post-capture. This substitution of computational methods for mechanical optical complexity directly resolves the contradiction between aberration compensation and device complexity.

The patent performs preliminary characterization of the optical system's aberrations during manufacturing or calibration. By pre-measuring and storing the distortion maps and aberration profiles of simple lenses, the system can then apply pre-computed correction algorithms to images captured with these lenses. This preliminary action enables simple optics to achieve complex correction capabilities without requiring complex lens designs.

The patent substitutes computational correction for mechanical optical precision. Simple lenses inherently produce geometric and chromatic distortions, but the invention replaces the need for complex optical precision with digital image processing that characterizes and corrects these distortions. The computational system compensates for the optical imperfections, enabling simple lenses to produce high-quality images without requiring complex lens designs.

The patent creates a digital copy or model of the optical system's aberration characteristics through calibration procedures. By capturing test images through the simple lens and analyzing the distortion patterns, the system builds a digital representation of the lens's optical imperfections. This digital copy is then used to generate correction algorithms that reverse the distortions, allowing simple lenses to achieve precision comparable to complex lenses.