Multi-Aperture Imaging Device with Beam Deflection for Compact FOV
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cameras face limitations in miniaturization while maintaining high image quality, particularly in capturing an entire visual field effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-aperture imaging device with a beam deflection system that steers optical channels through transparent areas and apertures, allowing for adjustable viewing directions and reducing stray light entry by partially closing unused paths, enabling high-quality image capture in a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional cameras transmit the entire field of view in one channel, then the field of view coverage is complete, but the device size cannot be miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the field of view into multiple partial fields of view, with each optical channel capturing a specific partial field. The beam deflection device directs light from different angular ranges into separate optical channels, allowing the system to cover the entire field of view through multiple segmented channels rather than requiring a single large-channel camera
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular dimension as an additional degree of freedom by using a beam deflection device that can steer light from different angles into the same image sensor. This allows multiple viewing directions to be captured sequentially or simultaneously, enabling field of view expansion without increasing the physical size of the imaging device
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are used to capture different fields of view, then the field of view coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single imaging device perform multiple functions by equipping it with a beam deflection device that can steer light from different angles and directions into the same image sensor. This single device can capture multiple partial fields of view, act as both a forward-facing and side-facing camera, and adapt to different viewing requirements without requiring multiple separate camera modules
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple optical channels and beam paths into a single image sensor, merging the functionality of what would traditionally require multiple separate cameras. The beam deflection device integrates different light paths angularly and spatially, allowing multiple viewing functions to be consolidated into one compact imaging device
3Reliability
If transparent areas are left open for beam paths, then the optical transmission is efficient, but stray light enters and reduces image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs switchable diaphragms that can dynamically open or close transparent areas based on the current viewing direction and operating state. When the beam deflection device directs light through a specific transparent area, the corresponding diaphragm opens to maximize transmission; when switching to a different viewing direction, previously used transparent areas are closed by diaphragms to block stray light while new areas are opened for the new beam path
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-positions multiple transparent areas and diaphragms in the housing structure, preparing the optical path configuration in advance. The beam deflection device and diaphragm system are designed so that switching between viewing directions involves moving to pre-configured positions rather than creating new optical paths, enabling rapid switching while maintaining both transmission efficiency and stray light rejection
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
The solution allows for miniaturized devices to capture high-quality images of an entire visual field by deflecting beam paths and controlling stray light, achieving efficient image acquisition in a portable and compact form.
Implementation Method 1
the beam deflection device deflects a beam path of the imaging device in such a way that it runs through the first transparent area
Implementation Method 2
the second aperture optically at least partially closes the second transparent area, so that the entry of stray light is reduced
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device comprising a housing, which has a first transparent region and a second transparent region, and a multi-aperture imaging device, which is arranged in an interior of the housing and comprises a beam-deflecting apparatus. The device comprises a first diaphragm and a second diaphragm, wherein the portable device has a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first operating state, the beam-deflecting apparatus deflects a beam path of the imaging device in such a way that said beam path passes through the first transparent region and the second diaphragm optically at least partially closes the second transparent region. In the second operating state, the beam-deflecting apparatus deflects the beam path of the imaging device in such a way that said beam path passes through the second transparent region. In the second operating state, the first diaphragm optically at least partially closes the first transparent region.