Multi-Lens Biometric Imaging for Wider Subject Distance Range
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging apparatuses for personal authentication, such as those capturing vein or fingerprint images, have a narrow range of distances at which they can effectively image a subject, necessitating the subject to be brought close, thereby reducing usability.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with multiple lenses of different focal lengths and a ranging unit to measure distance, allowing selection of the appropriate image based on the measured distance, thereby expanding the range of usable distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If arithmetic operations are performed on multiple living body images from a lens array, then image processing capability is improved, but the range of distance to subject that can be imaged becomes narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple independent lens units, each capable of capturing images at different distances. Instead of processing multiple images from a single lens array, each lens is independently configured to capture images, allowing the system to handle a broader range of distances without complex arithmetic operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which lens to activate based on the distance to the subject. The control unit determines the appropriate lens for the current imaging condition, enabling the system to adapt to varying distances and maintain effective imaging across a wide range without requiring complex image processing.
2Area of stationary object
If a lens array with multiple lenses is used to capture compound eye images, then imaging coverage is improved, but the usable distance range becomes narrow due to image shift requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging function is segmented across multiple independent lenses rather than using a single lens array. Each lens captures images independently at its optimal focal distance, eliminating the image shift problem inherent in lens arrays and enabling a broader usable distance range while maintaining comprehensive imaging coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the focal length parameter by selecting different lenses based on the subject distance. Each lens is optimized for specific distance ranges, and the control unit adjusts which lens is active to match the current imaging condition, thereby extending the usable distance range while maintaining imaging coverage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If focus adjustment mechanisms are added to expand imaging distance range, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single lens with adjustable focus, the system segments the imaging function across multiple fixed-focal-length lenses. Each lens is dedicated to specific distance ranges, eliminating the need for complex focus adjustment mechanisms while maintaining a wide imaging distance range through the coordinated operation of multiple simple lens units.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple lenses are used to provide universal imaging capability across different distances. Rather than one lens attempting to focus at all distances through complex adjustment, each lens serves its designated distance range efficiently, and the control unit manages which lens is active, achieving multi-functionality without increasing mechanical complexity.
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
The solution expands the range of distances at which imaging can be performed, improving usability by allowing imaging at varying subject distances without the need for complex focus adjustment mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of lenses having respectively different focal lengths at which an image of a living body to which the light is irradiated is formed
Implementation Method 2
an imaging device that generates a plurality of living body images that are images of the living body by respectively capturing an image of the living body through the lenses
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes a light irradiating unit that irradiates light to a living body, a ranging unit that measures a distance to the living body, a plurality of lenses having respectively different focal lengths at which an image of a living body to which the light is irradiated is formed, an imaging device that generates a plurality of living body images that are images of the living body by respectively capturing an image of the living body through the lenses, and an image selecting unit that selects one out of the living body images based on the measured distance to the living body.