Light Path Switcher for Multi-Lens Imaging and Stray Light Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture devices with multiple lenses struggle to efficiently switch between different focal lengths and prevent stray light interference, leading to suboptimal image quality.
Innovation Solution
An image capture device incorporating a light path switcher with a first and second light-transmitting medium of varying refractive indices, controlled by a driving module to selectively allow or reflect imaging light based on the attachment state of the mediums, and an optical steering element to manage light paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lenses are used for different focal lengths, then photography versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light path switcher serves multiple functions: it switches between different lens assemblies (first and second lens assemblies), controls light transmission paths, and integrates with the image sensor system. This single component performs what would otherwise require separate switching mechanisms for each lens, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility across multiple focal lengths
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the light path switching function with the existing lens assembly structure. The light path switcher is integrated downstream of the reflecting surface and second lens assembly, merging the switching mechanism with the optical path already present in the device. This integration eliminates the need for separate, standalone switching components for each lens assembly
2Productivity
If light path switching is implemented, then focal length switching efficiency is improved, but stray light interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light path switcher extracts and separates the desired imaging light from stray light by providing dedicated transmission paths. When switching between focal lengths, the switcher isolates the active light path from inactive ones, preventing stray light from entering the image sensor. This extraction of useful light from harmful stray light maintains high switching efficiency while minimizing interference
Solution Approach 2:
The light path switcher acts as an intermediary component between the lens assemblies and the image sensor. It mediates the light transmission by selectively allowing light from the active lens assembly to pass while blocking light from inactive assemblies. This intermediary position enables efficient focal length switching while preventing stray light contamination of the image sensor
3Manufacturing precision
If light transmission is optimized, then image quality is improved, but light path control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light path switcher employs dynamic control mechanisms that adjust light transmission based on the active lens assembly. The switching state changes dynamically depending on whether the first or second lens assembly is active, allowing optimized light transmission for each configuration. This dynamic adaptation improves image quality by ensuring optimal light paths are used while the control system manages complexity through automated state detection
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
Enhances image quality by optimizing light transmission and reducing stray light interference, allowing for seamless switching between focal lengths and improving overall photographic performance.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging light is incident on the first light-transmitting medium at an angle of incidence, the angle of incidence is greater than or equal to a critical angle, the first light-transmitting medium includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other, and the first side has a first refractive index. The second light-transmitting medium has a second refractive index, and the second refractive index is less than the first refractive index. In response to that the second light-transmitting medium is located between the first side and the second side, the light path switcher is configured to allow the imaging light incident on the first light-transmitting medium to be reflected at the first light-transmitting medium.
Implementation Method 2
The optical steering element is adjacent to the first lens assembly and includes a reflecting surface, and the first optical axis is reflected at the reflecting surface.
Data Source
AI summary
An image capture device includes a first lens assembly having a first optical axis, an optical steering element reflecting the first optical axis, a second lens assembly having a second optical axis parallel to the first optical axis, a light path switcher selectively allowing imaging light incident on the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly at an angle of incidence greater than or equal to a critical angle to pass, and an image sensor located downstream of the light path switcher to capture the imaging light, light path-wise. The light path switcher includes a first light-transmitting medium and a second light-transmitting medium. When incident on the second light-transmitting medium from the first light-transmitting medium, the imaging light is reflected at the light path switcher. When not incident on the second light-transmitting medium, the imaging light passes through the first light-transmitting medium to penetrate through the light path switcher.