Multi-Focus Lens Processing to Reduce Mobile Camera Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, require multiple dedicated camera systems for different focal ranges, which increases cost and complexity, while there is a need for lower-priced yet versatile imaging solutions.
Innovation Solution
A camera system with a multi-focus lens and a single image sensor that generates a combined image, which is then separated into different focal length images using digital signal processing, allowing a single camera system to achieve results similar to multiple-sensor systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated camera systems are used for different focal ranges, then imaging versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single camera system that performs multiple imaging functions (wide-angle and telephoto) by using a multi-focus lens with multiple focal lengths. The lens can switch between different focal lengths to capture images at various ranges, eliminating the need for separate dedicated camera systems for each focal range while maintaining imaging versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions into a single camera system by integrating a multi-focus lens that can operate at different focal lengths. The image sensor and processing system handle combined images from multiple focal lengths, merging what would traditionally require separate camera systems into one unified device
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated camera systems are used for different focal ranges, then imaging versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single camera system that performs multiple imaging functions (wide-angle and telephoto) by using a multi-focus lens with multiple focal lengths. The lens can switch between different focal lengths to capture images at various ranges, eliminating the need for separate dedicated camera systems for each focal range while maintaining imaging versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions into a single camera system by integrating a multi-focus lens that can operate at different focal lengths. The image sensor and processing system handle combined images from multiple focal lengths, merging what would traditionally require separate camera systems into one unified device
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
Reduces the need for multiple camera systems by a factor of two or more, providing cost-effective multi-focus imaging capabilities in mobile devices and other imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
the image sensor generates a combined image according to the first and second focal length of the multi-focus lens
Implementation Method 2
diffractive lenses employ closely spaced concentric rings on one of the lens surfaces to split incoming light into multiple beams
Data Source
AI summary
In at least one embodiment a camera system includes a multi-focus lens, an image sensor and an image processor. The multi-focus lens has a first focal length and a second focal length. The image processor is arranged downstream of the multi-focus lens. In operation, the image sensor generates a combined image according to the first and second focal lengths of the multi-focus lens. The image processor receives the combined image and separates the combined image into a first image of the first focal length and a second image of the second focal length.