Lensless Imaging Exposure Control via Modulator Transmittance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lens-less imaging devices lack effective exposure control mechanisms, particularly in environments with varying light conditions, as they cannot employ aperture diaphragm control like traditional lens-based devices, leading to suboptimal image quality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an exposure control unit that adjusts exposure conditions based on sensor signals, including exposure time and modulator transmittance, to generate high-quality images regardless of environmental lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If lens-less imaging device is used, then device size and cost are reduced, but exposure control capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The modulator is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the imaging element (replacing the lens) and the exposure control mechanism. By controlling the transmittance of the modulator, the device achieves exposure control without requiring separate aperture diaphragm components, thus maintaining the compact lens-less structure while gaining exposure adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the transmittance parameter of the modulator to control exposure. By adjusting the transmittance of the modulator in response to light volume conditions, the device achieves exposure control through parameter modification rather than through mechanical aperture adjustment, resolving the contradiction between simplified structure and exposure control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If aperture diaphragm control is used, then exposure control is effective, but device structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the modulator and exposure control functions into a single component. The modulator that performs the primary imaging function also serves as the exposure control mechanism through its transmittance adjustment capability, eliminating the need for separate aperture diaphragm structures and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modulator is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously performs imaging and exposure control. By controlling the transmittance of this single component, the system achieves exposure adjustment without adding mechanical aperture structures, thus avoiding increased device complexity while maintaining effective exposure control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modulator transmittance is adjusted, then exposure control is improved, but light volume reaching sensor changes
Solution Approach 1:
The exposure control unit operates based on feedback from the light receiving elements. It determines the appropriate exposure condition by analyzing the light volume received, then adjusts the modulator transmittance accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that exposure is optimized while accounting for the resulting light volume changes, resolving the contradiction between exposure control and light volume management.
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 acquisition of high-quality images in varying light conditions by dynamically controlling exposure, improving image quality and adaptability in lens-less imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
a modulator that is provided on the light receiving surface of the image sensor and modulates light by using a first grating pattern
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor that is configured to convert an optical image captured in a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in an array on an imaging surface into sensor signals
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device comprises: an image sensor to convert an optical image captured in light receiving elements arranged in an array on an imaging surface into sensor signals and output the sensor signals; a modulator provided on a light receiving surface of the image sensor and to modulate light by using a first grating pattern; an exposure control unit to determine an exposure condition based on the sensor signals, change a set exposure condition to the determined exposure condition, and control exposure in accordance with the changed exposure condition; and an image processing unit to generate a second grating pattern corresponding to the first grating pattern, generate a moiré fringe image based on the second grating pattern and the sensor signals, and generate a photographed image based on the moiré fringe image. The exposure condition includes an exposure time of the image sensor and a transmittance of the modulator.