Modular Camera System Synchronization for 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional camera systems are not user-friendly or affordable for amateur photographers and filmmakers who want to capture 3D, panoramic, and spherical images or video, as they require expensive and bulky stereoscopic cameras or advanced multi-lens systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular camera system that allows multiple standalone cameras to be synchronized and configured for 2D, 3D, panoramic, and spherical image capture, enabling users to create various types of images and videos using a single set of cameras, eliminating the need for dedicated devices and providing flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional stereoscopic cameras are used for 3D photography, then 3D imaging capability is achieved, but the device becomes expensive and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single camera to perform multiple functions including 2D photography, 3D photography, panoramic imaging, and spherical imaging. The camera system uses a movable lens assembly that can be positioned in different configurations to achieve various imaging modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated cameras for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the imaging function into separate operational modes that can be selected based on the desired output. The lens assembly is segmented into multiple positions, each corresponding to a specific imaging mode (2D, 3D, panoramic, spherical), allowing the camera to switch between functions by moving the lens to different locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If advanced multi-lens cameras are used for panoramic and spherical photography, then imaging capability is improved, but affordability and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes panoramic and spherical imaging capabilities available in a single affordable camera by using a movable lens assembly that can be positioned to capture images in multiple directions. This eliminates the need for expensive specialized multi-lens cameras, making advanced imaging features accessible to amateur photographers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by using a movable lens assembly that can be dynamically repositioned between different locations to change the imaging mode. This dynamic positioning allows the camera to adapt between 2D, 3D, panoramic, and spherical imaging modes, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed lens systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized cameras are purchased for different imaging types, then imaging versatility is achieved, but cost and device quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves maximum versatility with a single camera by implementing a movable lens assembly that can be positioned in multiple configurations. This single camera can capture 2D images, 3D images, panoramic images, and spherical images, replacing what would traditionally require multiple specialized cameras.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple imaging functions into a single camera system. By combining 2D, 3D, panoramic, and spherical imaging capabilities in one device with a shared sensor and movable lens assembly, the patent reduces the total number of cameras needed while maintaining comprehensive imaging versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a process configuration generates a unitary rendered image for a video from at least two cameras. The configuration detects a communication coupling of at least two cameras and determines a master camera and a slave camera. The configuration determines an orientation of camera sensor of the master camera and the slave camera and determines a first frame of a video for a synchronization point for a start of a video capture. The configuration captures and reads images from the master camera sensor and the slave camera sensor in response to the start of the video capture and orientation of the camera sensors.