Multi-band Image Sensor with RGB-IR Filter Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems generating three-dimensional color images require multiple cameras, leading to increased size and cost due to the need for separate color and infrared cameras, which complicates the system and makes it inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with a single RGB-IR camera that uses a filter array with multiple filter regions to separate visible color and infrared bands, allowing for the generation of three-dimensional color images by processing light through an array of sensor elements, where each sensor element receives a portion of the light and generates signals indicative of intensity, and an image signal processor separates and formats the data frames for back-end processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras (color camera and infrared camera) are used to generate three-dimensional color images, then the system can process both color image data and depth information, but the size and cost of the host system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple camera functions (color imaging and infrared depth sensing) into a single integrated sensor device. The sensor array includes both visible light sensitive elements and infrared sensitive elements in the same physical package, eliminating the need for separate color and infrared cameras. This merging reduces system volume while maintaining the capability to process both color and depth information simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor device performs multiple functions: it captures visible light for color imaging, detects infrared radiation for depth information, and can operate in different modes (color mode, depth mode, or combined mode). This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace multiple specialized cameras, reducing overall system size while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras (color camera and infrared camera) are used to generate three-dimensional color images, then the system can process both color image data and depth information, but the cost of the host system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple camera functions (color imaging and infrared depth sensing) into a single sensor device with shared components including the sensor array, processing circuitry, and housing. This consolidation reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating duplicate components and simplifying the assembly process, while maintaining the capability to process both color and depth information.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor device provides multi-functionality (color capture, depth sensing, and various operating modes) within a single unit, reducing the total cost compared to purchasing and integrating multiple separate specialized cameras. The shared processing circuitry and control systems further reduce overall system cost.
3Volume of moving object
If a filter array with multiple filter regions is used to separate visible color and infrared bands in a single camera, then the system size is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter array is segmented into multiple filter regions, each with specific wavelength transmission characteristics (visible light filters and infrared filters). Each filter region is associated with corresponding sensor elements that are sensitive to specific wavelength ranges. This segmentation allows the system to separate color and depth information processing within a single device while managing complexity through modular organization of filters and sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the filter array have different optical properties tailored to specific functions: some regions transmit visible light for color imaging, while other regions transmit infrared radiation for depth sensing. The sensor elements are similarly configured with local sensitivity characteristics matching their associated filter regions, optimizing performance for each function while maintaining a compact integrated structure.
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
This solution simplifies the system form factor, reduces costs, and enables high-frame-rate data transfer, improving efficiency and image quality by integrating color and depth information processing within a single camera, thus eliminating the need for multiple cameras.
Implementation Method 1
the filter comprising a plurality of filter regions, each filter region being constructed to pass a predetermined band of wavelengths of the light
Implementation Method 2
each sensor element in the array of sensor elements receiving a portion of the light and generating a signal indicative of an intensity of the received portion of the light
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system and method for generating a three-dimensional color image include an opening for allowing light from an object to enter the imaging system. Each sensor element in an array of sensor elements receives a portion of the light and generates a signal indicative of an intensity of the received portion of the light. Light from an optical element impinges on a filter comprising a plurality of filter regions, each filter region passes a predetermined band of wavelengths of the light and is associated with and disposed in alignment with one of the sensor elements such that light passing through each filter region impinges on the sensor associated and in alignment with the filter element. At least one of the filter regions is constructed to pass a visible color band, and at least one other of the filter regions is constructed to pass an infrared band.