Multi-Focal Plane Imaging with Folded Optical Paths
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems are limited by the restriction to a single focal plane, which is not suitable for applications requiring capture of imagery from multiple focal planes without the complexity of plenoptic/light field approaches or the drawbacks of existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A camera design that captures focused imagery from two or more focal planes using simple optical elements, including folded optical paths and coplanar image sensors, allowing for digital compositing to mitigate bokeh effects and achieve compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If plenoptic or light field sensing is used to capture multiple focal planes, then focus flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent imaging channels, each with its own lens and image sensor. Each channel is configured to capture images from a specific focal plane, allowing the system to capture multiple focal planes simultaneously without requiring complex plenoptic or light field sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple image sensors work together to perform the function of capturing focused imagery from multiple focal planes. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for complex single-sensor plenoptic or light field systems, achieving focus flexibility through coordinated operation of simpler components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If twin optical systems are integrated into a single apparatus, then imaging capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple imaging systems are merged into a single integrated apparatus with a common structural framework. The lenses and image sensors are arranged in a coordinated configuration that allows simultaneous capture from multiple focal planes while sharing common housing and control systems, reducing overall complexity compared to separate systems.
3Device complexity
If conventional single focal plane imaging is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability for multiple focal planes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent imaging channels, each with its own lens and image sensor. Each channel is configured to capture images from a specific focal plane, allowing the system to capture multiple focal planes simultaneously without requiring complex plenoptic or light field sensors.
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 flexible focal plane capture without the complexity of plenoptic/light field systems, reducing bokeh effects and achieving compactness, while maintaining image quality across multiple focal planes.
Implementation Method 1
The first imaging system comprises first sensor 12, and first lens 16. These elements cooperate to capture an image that is projected onto the first sensor from a first focal plane 30.
Implementation Method 2
The second imaging system comprises second sensor 14, and first and second mirrors 20 and 22. These elements cooperate to capture an image that is projected onto the second sensor 14 from a second focal plane 32.
Implementation Method 3
The first imaging system comprises first sensor 12, and first lens 16. These elements cooperate to capture an image that is projected onto the first sensor from a first focal plane 30.
Implementation Method 4
The second imaging system comprises second sensor 14, and first and second mirrors 20 and 22. These elements cooperate to capture an image that is projected onto the second sensor 14 from a second focal plane 32.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system captures focused imagery from two or more focal planes, yet does so with relatively simple optical elements. Some arrangements involve folded optical paths, to make them more compact in size. Others enable the image sensors to be mounted in coplanar arrangement. Still others involve digital compositing, e.g., to mitigate undesired bokeh effects. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed.