Multi-aperture Imaging Device with Switchable Beam Deflector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-aperture imaging systems have a high installation height due to the need for a deflecting mirror that rotates to change viewing directions, which increases the overall size and height of the camera, and they struggle to capture high-quality images of object regions or fields of view effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-aperture imaging device with a beam-deflecting means that can switch between two rotational positions, allowing optical paths to be deflected into different viewing directions, and an array that adjusts its orientation relative to the beam-deflecting means, reducing the overall installation height and enabling efficient capture of a total field of view by combining partial fields of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a deflecting mirror is used to switch viewing directions in multi-aperture imaging systems, then the viewing direction can be switched between different directions (e.g., 180°), but the installation height and overall size of the camera increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the array of optical channels movable relative to the beam-deflecting means. Instead of having a fixed array, the system enables the array to execute adjustment movements that change its orientation with respect to the beam-deflecting means. This dynamic configuration allows the same camera to achieve different viewing directions while maintaining a compact installation height, as the movable array can be positioned optimally for each viewing direction rather than requiring a tall fixed structure to accommodate all directions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the dimensionality change principle by introducing a degree of freedom in the orientation of the array relative to the beam-deflecting means. The array is configured to execute adjustment movements that change its angular orientation, effectively adding a rotational dimension to the system's configuration space. This allows the system to achieve multiple viewing directions not by increasing vertical height, but by utilizing angular adjustment of the array, thereby solving the height-versus-versatility contradiction
2Length of stationary object
If the installation height is reduced to make the camera more compact, then the overall size decreases, but the ability to capture high-quality images of object regions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The movable array configuration allows the system to dynamically optimize the optical path geometry for each viewing direction. By adjusting the array's orientation relative to the beam-deflecting means, the system can maintain optimal imaging conditions (such as focal distances and optical alignment) even when the overall installation height is reduced. This dynamic optimization ensures that image quality is preserved despite the compact form factor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the orientation parameter of the array to vary relative to the beam-deflecting means. The array is configured to execute adjustment movements that change its angular orientation, effectively adding a rotational dimension to the system's configuration space. This allows the system to achieve multiple viewing directions not by increasing vertical height, but by utilizing angular adjustment of the array, thereby solving the height-versus-versatility contradiction
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 results in a lower installation height and reduced size of the overhang of the beam-deflecting means relative to the optics, allowing for more compact and efficient imaging systems that can capture a total field of view by combining partial fields of view, thereby improving image quality and reducing the camera's overall size.
Implementation Method 1
a beam-deflecting means switchable between a first rotational position and a second rotational position by executing a switching movement and configured to deflect, in a first rotational position, optical paths of the optical channels into a first viewing direction and to deflect, in a second rotational position, the optical paths of the optical channels into a second viewing direction
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-aperture imaging device includes an image sensor, an array of optical channels, each optical channel including an optic for imaging a partial field of view of a total field of view onto an image sensor region of the image sensor, and a beam-deflector switchable between a first rotational position and a second rotational position by executing a switching movement, and configured to deflect, in a first rotational position, optical paths of the optical channels into a first viewing direction, and to deflect, in a second rotational position, the optical paths of the optical channels into a second viewing direction. The array is configured to execute, based on the switching movement, an adjustment movement for adjusting an orientation of the array with respect to the beam-deflector.