Multi-Lens Array Camera Mount with Mechanical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional SLR and DSLR cameras are limited to a single focal length, restricting their ability to capture multiple focal points and angles, leading to a limited sample of visual information, and existing solutions for multi-lens array cameras face challenges in alignment and calibration, particularly in dynamic lighting conditions and user-friendliness.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-lens array cameras with interchangeable lens mounts and image capture circuits, where each lens is mechanically aligned and interchangeable, allowing for various focal lengths and orientations, and software calibration to adapt to environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single lens is used in SLR/DSLR cameras, then the camera structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the camera can only capture a single focal length and angle, limiting visual information
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is segmented into multiple independent lens units, each with different focal lengths and optical characteristics. Instead of one complex interchangeable lens system, the patent divides the imaging function across multiple fixed lens elements arranged in an array, where each lens captures a specific focal range and angle simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point focal capture to multi-point focal capture by adding spatial dimensionality to the lens array. Multiple lenses are positioned at different locations and orientations to capture visual information from multiple focal lengths and angles simultaneously, effectively adding a dimensional layer to the imaging capability
2Loss of information
If multiple lenses are used to capture multiple focal points, then visual information richness is improved, but alignment and calibration become difficult especially in dynamic lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple lens elements into a single integrated lens array structure that functions as one unified optical system. The lenses are fixed relative to each other and to the sensor array, eliminating the need for complex alignment mechanisms. This unified structure maintains precise alignment while capturing diverse focal information
Solution Approach 2:
The lens array and sensor array are designed with corresponding geometric relationships that enable self-alignment. The fixed physical arrangement of lenses relative to their associated sensors ensures that each lens automatically aligns with its detection element, eliminating the need for external calibration procedures even in dynamic environments
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image capture circuits are used for each lens, then the ability to capture multiple focal points is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array serves multiple functions simultaneously: each sensor element detects light from its corresponding lens while collectively forming a comprehensive multi-focal image. The unified sensor array processes information from all lens elements, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate processing circuits for each lens
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 the capture of richer visual information with multiple focal points and angles, improving image quality and versatility, while maintaining user-friendliness and adaptability to changing lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of receiving couplers at the front side of the lens mount, each to receive one of the lenses of the lens array, wherein the receiving couplers mechanically bring the optics of the respective lens mounted thereto into alignment with a corresponding one of the image capture circuits
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with disclosed embodiments, there are provided methods, systems, and apparatuses for implementing multi-lens array cameras and mounts. In one embodiment there is a lens mount assembly, having therein a lens mount with a front side and a back side; a lens array mounted to the front side of the lens mount, the lens array having a plurality of optics embedded within lenses mounted to the front side of the lens mount; a plurality of image capture circuits at the back side of the lens mount, the plurality of image capture circuits having a one to one correspondence to the lenses of the lens array mounted to the front side of the lens mount; and a plurality of receiving couplers at the front side of the lens mount, each to receive one of the lenses of the lens array, wherein the receiving couplers mechanically bring the optics of the respective lens mounted thereto into alignment with a corresponding one of the image capture circuits on the back side of the lens mount opposing the mounted lens. The lens mount assembly may be embodied within a camera body assembly such as a hand-held smart phone, a tablet computing device or a stand alone hand held camera. The lens mount assembly may be interchangeable with other lens mount assemblies for a multi-lens array camera. Other related embodiments are disclosed.