Multi-Mag Imager Array for Wide Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging technologies face challenges in remotely monitoring a wide field of view, especially in inhospitable or remote regions, as they often require mechanical parts for rotation and have limited flexibility in magnification and coverage.
Innovation Solution
A modular imaging system with multiple imagers of different magnifications, including wide-angle and zoom cameras, that can cover a 360° field of view without rotating parts, integrated with an electronic compass and network relay for remote data transfer and control, allowing for flexible imaging and target selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If mechanical rotating parts are used to achieve wide field of view coverage, then the field of view coverage is improved, but the device complexity and reliability are worsened due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple stationary imagers (first imagers and second imagers), each capturing a specific portion of the overall field of view. The first imagers capture a first portion of the θ° field of view, while the second imagers capture a second portion, collectively achieving comprehensive coverage without requiring any single imager to rotate mechanically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical rotating parts with a static array of multiple imagers. Instead of using a single camera that physically rotates to scan the environment, the system employs multiple fixed imagers positioned to collectively cover the desired field of view, eliminating mechanical complexity and improving reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imagers with different magnifications are used to cover wide field of view, then the imaging flexibility is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the field of view are imaged with different magnifications based on their importance. Second imagers with higher magnification are positioned to capture specific areas of interest, while first imagers with lower magnification cover broader regions. This allows the system to allocate imaging resources efficiently, providing detailed views where needed and broad coverage elsewhere.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously using a unified architecture. The same imager array can capture both wide-angle overview images and zoomed-in detailed images of specific targets, eliminating the need for separate imaging systems for different magnification requirements.
3Ease of operation
If remote monitoring is implemented in inhospitable regions, then the monitoring capability is improved, but the power consumption is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, the imaging system employs periodic or event-triggered image capture. Images are taken at specific intervals or when motion is detected, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining effective remote monitoring capability in inhospitable regions where power availability may be limited.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention relate to a method and apparatus for imaging. Specific embodiments can incorporate an imaging module having at least one first imager, where each first imager images a corresponding at least one first portion of a θ° field of view about a reference point, such that the at least one first imager images the θ° field of view. In a specific embodiment θ is at least 90°. The imaging module can also incorporate at least one second imager, where each second imager images a corresponding at least one second portion of the θ° field of view about the reference point, and one or more of the at least one first imager has a different magnification than one or more of the at least one second imager. Embodiments can allow imaging of a θ° field of view about a reference point with imagers having at least two different magnifications.