Movable Microlens Array for Switching Imaging Modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging devices lack a simple and efficient method for switching between light field photography mode and normal high-resolution imaging mode.

Innovation Solution

An imaging device and method that includes an imaging lens, a microlens array section, and a transporting section, allowing the microlens array to move between positions to enable direct imaging in one mode and light field imaging in another, with image processing only performed in the light field mode.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed microlens array is used in the imaging device, then the device can perform light field photography, but it cannot easily switch to normal high-resolution imaging mode

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging mode switching capabilityVSAvoiddevice configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The microlens array is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned at different locations relative to the imaging element. This dynamic positioning enables the device to switch between light field photography mode (when microlens array is in first position) and normal high-resolution imaging mode (when microlens array is in second position), thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple separate devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A single imaging device is designed to perform multiple imaging functions by incorporating a movable microlens array that can be positioned in different locations. The same device can therefore implement both light field photography and normal high-resolution imaging, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the microlens array is moved to enable mode switching, then imaging mode flexibility is improved, but the device construction becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging mode switching easeVSAvoiddevice construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The microlens array is equipped with a driving mechanism that enables it to move between predetermined positions. This dynamic capability allows users to easily switch between imaging modes by simply positioning the microlens array accordingly, making the mode switching operation simple while maintaining reasonable construction complexity through the use of a dedicated driving mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 easy switching between imaging modes with optimized focusing operations, facilitating both high-resolution and light field photography capabilities using a simple configuration and construction.

Implementation Method 1

an imaging lens; (B) a microlens array section; (C) an imaging element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight focusing: Lens

Implementation Method 2

The light which has passed through the imaging lens passes through microlenses. The microlenses make up the microlens array section disposed where an image is formed by the imaging lens.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight refraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS9113066B2Imaging device and method with transporting microlens array

Publication Date: 2015.08.18 SONY GROUP CORP

AI summary

Disclosed herein is an imaging device including an imaging lens; a microlens array section; an imaging element; and a transporting section adapted to transport the microlens array section.