Multi-Camera Module Hinge Mechanism for Dynamic Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Digital cameras face limitations in dynamically adjusting the field of view and aspect ratio to accommodate varying user preferences and shooting conditions, as existing systems rely on physical lens changes or post-processing cropping, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-camera module apparatus with an adjustment mechanism that allows camera modules to change configurations, enabling a shared common field of view to expand into a larger continuous view area with a consistent aspect ratio, using super-resolution combining and interpolation to form zoom-in and zoom-out images, and tilting to adjust aspect ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical lens changes are used to adjust field of view, then focal length can be changed, but the operation becomes cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lens changing system with a multi-camera module system that uses an adjustment mechanism to change the spatial arrangement and orientation of multiple fixed cameras. This allows field of view adjustment through software-controlled camera positioning rather than physical lens manipulation, making the operation more efficient and user-friendly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the imaging function into multiple separate camera modules instead of using a single variable focal length lens. Each camera module has a fixed focal length, and the system achieves variable field of view by controlling which cameras are active and their relative positions, thereby simplifying the mechanical structure while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If post-processing cropping is used to change aspect ratio, then aspect ratio can be adjusted, but the process is time-consuming and loses image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures multiple images with different fields of view and aspect ratios in advance during the photography process itself, rather than performing cropping later. The adjustment mechanism positions cameras to capture overlapping fields of view that can be seamlessly stitched together, so the desired aspect ratio is already determined during capture, eliminating time-consuming post-processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple camera modules working in unison to capture a comprehensive scene that can be stitched into different aspect ratios. By merging the fields of view of multiple cameras with overlapping regions, the system can produce high-quality images in various aspect ratios without the quality loss associated with aggressive cropping of single images.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple camera modules are used to expand view area, then field of view coverage increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the adjustment mechanism to perform multiple functions: it can reposition camera modules to change field of view, adjust the aspect ratio by selecting different camera combinations, and maintain proper geometric relationships for stitching. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby managing device complexity while achieving expanded view area coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism that can change the spatial configuration of camera modules based on the photography task. The cameras are mounted in a way that allows them to be repositioned relative to each other, enabling the system to adapt the geometric arrangement to match the desired field of view and aspect ratio, thereby achieving versatile functionality without permanent complex structural commitments.
4Adaptability or versatility
If camera modules are tilted to adjust aspect ratio, then aspect ratio changes, but alignment precision becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position and orientation of camera modules during adjustment. The adjustment mechanism uses this feedback to make real-time corrections, ensuring that camera modules return to precise alignment after tilting to change aspect ratio. This closed-loop control maintains manufacturing precision even when cameras are repositioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the adjustment mechanism to maintain equal geometric relationships between all camera modules during aspect ratio changes. By ensuring that all cameras remain in a consistent spatial configuration relative to each other, the system preserves alignment precision while allowing aspect ratio adjustment through controlled tilting of the entire camera array.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, method and computer program, in which there is provided an apparatus with a body, which apparatus has a set of camera modules mounted on the body, each camera module configured to take images with a first field of view and an adjustment mechanism configured to move the camera modules between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, each camera module shares a substantially common field of view that covers a first view area. In the second configuration, the fields of view of the camera modules collectively form a second view area that is continuous and covers a second view area. A zoom-in image is formed in the first configuration using super-resolution combining of the images taken by the camera modules.