Lensless 3D Imaging Array Using Directional Optical Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical imaging systems rely on lenses, which limit their ability to form 3-D images using incoherent illumination sources and restrict their application in capturing images of fluorescent substances with gap between excitation and emission spectra.
Innovation Solution
A lens-less 3-D imaging device utilizing a multitude of directionally sensitive optical receiving elements positioned along flat or concave surfaces, forming a volumetric focal zone, where each element has a unique angular view, enabling the capture and formation of 3-D images using incoherent illumination sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical imaging systems use a lens to form an image, then image formation is achieved, but the ability to form 3-D images using incoherent illumination sources is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical receiving function into multiple discrete directional sensing elements arranged in an array, where each element captures light from a specific direction. This segmentation enables 3-D image formation by combining signals from multiple elements with different viewing angles, resolving the contradiction between image formation capability and compatibility with incoherent sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional 2-D image formation to 3-D volumetric imaging by adding angular/directional information as a new dimension. Each optical receiving element is positioned and oriented to capture light from specific directions, creating a volumetric focal zone that enables 3-D reconstruction from incoherent illumination.
2Volume of stationary object
If a lens is used in optical imaging systems, then image formation is possible, but the imaging volume is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging optical receiving elements in three-dimensional space with different orientations and positions, the system creates a volumetric focal zone that extends beyond the traditional planar image plane. This dimensional expansion increases the imaging volume without requiring complex lens assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial parameters of the receiving elements (positions, orientations, and angular views) to define a volumetric focal zone. By varying these parameters across the array, the system achieves extended imaging volume while maintaining relatively simple individual element structures.
3Measurement precision
If conventional imaging systems are used, then 2-D images can be captured, but 3-D image formation with incoherent light is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The optical array segments the light collection function across multiple directional sensors, each contributing specific angular information to the 3-D reconstruction. This segmentation allows reliable 3-D image formation from incoherent sources by combining multiple directional measurements through computational processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical focusing function of lenses with a computational approach. Instead of using lenses to focus incoherent light, the system uses an array of directional sensors to capture angular information and reconstructs 3-D images through signal processing, substituting optical mechanics with computational methods.
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
Enables the capture of 3-D images with increased accuracy and resolution by using incoherent light sources, allowing for the imaging of fluorescent substances and providing a larger imaging volume with improved directionality.
Implementation Method 1
A lens-less 3-D imaging device includes, in part, a multitude of optical receiving elements positioned along a flat or concave surface defining a focal zone in which a 3-D image of a target is formed
Data Source
AI summary
A lens-less 3-D imaging device includes, in part, a multitude of optical receiving elements positioned along a concave or flat surface defining a focal zone of the imaging device. Each optical receiving element has a field of view that overlaps with a field of view of a number of other optical receiving elements. The optical receiving elements may optionally be grating couplers or photo detectors. The optical receiving elements may be disposed on a circuit board. The circuit board may be flexible and include control circuitry configured to form the image in accordance with the received responses of the optical receiving elements and further in accordance with the optical transfer functions of the of optical receiving elements. The circuit boards may include one or more flex sensors or strain gauges adapted to determine their curvatures.