Monocular 3D Imager Optical Assembly for Precision Ranging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for converting single-camera devices into 3D cameras are impractical due to the need for additional hardware, increased size, and power consumption, making it difficult to integrate 3D imaging capabilities into ubiquitous platforms like smartphones and tablets.
Innovation Solution
A thin, passive optical assembly that channels light from two apertures onto a single imager, using lensed relay optics and intermediate image planes to replicate a stereo camera pair without additional active hardware, allowing for long focal length optics and higher precision 3D imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional stereo vision is used to achieve 3D imaging, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for a second imager
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate imaging paths into a single imager by using a beam splitter to combine the optical channels. This allows stereo vision functionality to be achieved while using only one image sensor, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a beam splitter as an intermediary component that directs light from two separate apertures onto a single imager. This mediator enables the combination of multiple optical paths without requiring multiple imagers, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
2Measurement precision
If laser ranging methods are used to achieve long-range 3D imaging, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases due to higher illumination power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the device's existing camera lens and ambient light to perform ranging, rather than requiring separate active illumination sources. The system leverages the imaging capability already present in the device, eliminating the need for additional high-power lasers and reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the existing camera lens serve multiple functions: both imaging and ranging. By using the same optical path for both purposes, the system eliminates the need for dedicated laser illumination hardware, thereby reducing energy requirements while maintaining long-range measurement capability.
3Measurement precision
If structured light techniques are used to achieve 3D imaging, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to physically separated laser/illuminator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the imaging function and the ranging function into a single integrated system using one imager. The beam splitter merges the optical paths from multiple apertures onto the same sensor, eliminating the need for physically separated illuminators and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical path into multiple channels that are later recombined. By dividing the light collection into separate apertures and then merging them via the beam splitter, the system achieves complex optical functionality while maintaining a compact single-imager architecture.
4Measurement precision
If long focal length optics are used to achieve higher precision 3D imaging, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions into the existing camera lens, which serves as the objective lens for both imaging and ranging channels. This shared optical component reduces the total number of lenses required while maintaining long focal length precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam splitter acts as an intermediary that enables multiple optical channels to share common components. By introducing this mediator, the system can achieve complex multi-channel functionality with simpler individual components, reducing overall optical assembly complexity.
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 practical conversion of conventional imaging devices into 3D cameras with increased precision and magnification, simplifying calibration and reducing size and power requirements, while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
an objective lens for focusing the light into an intermediate image on an intermediate image plane
Implementation Method 2
an eyepiece lens for collimating the intermediate image
Implementation Method 3
a first reflector angled to direct the light from the aperture toward the objective lens
Data Source
AI summary
An optical assembly for three-dimensional image capture includes first and second optical channels that are fixed with respect to one another. Each channel is configured to direct light onto at least a portion of an image sensor. The first and second optical channels each include an aperture for receiving the light, an objective lens for focusing the light into an intermediate image on an intermediate image plane, and an eyepiece lens for collimating the intermediate image.