Multi-Optical Chain Camera for Motion Stabilization and Light Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cameras with large lenses are cumbersome and costly, limiting their use due to weight, size, and manufacturing complexities, while smaller sensors in devices like smartphones result in lower image quality due to limited light capture and dynamic range.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple optical chain modules with short focal length lenses and image sensors, which can simulate a large synthetic aperture and stabilize images against camera motion, allowing for improved image quality without the need for bulky lenses or complex support systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If large aperture lenses are used to capture more light and improve image quality, then light capture ability and image quality are improved, but weight, size, and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single large aperture lens into multiple smaller lenses arranged in an array. Each lens captures light independently, and their combined effect provides the same total light capture area as a single large lens, but with reduced weight and improved portability while maintaining image quality
2Illumination intensity
If large aperture lenses are used to improve light capture, then image quality in low light conditions is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing one complex large aperture lens, the patent uses multiple smaller, simpler lenses that are easier and less costly to manufacture. The modular nature of the lens array allows for standardized production and assembly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving the same light capture performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple small lenses into a unified lens array structure that functions as a single optical system. This merging approach allows the system to achieve the light capture capability of a large lens while using smaller, more manufacturable components
3Illumination intensity
If multiple optical chains are used to simulate large synthetic aperture, then light capture and dynamic range are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical system into multiple independent optical chains, each with its own lens and sensor. These segmented chains work in parallel to capture light from different angles and intensities, providing enhanced light capture and dynamic range while keeping each individual chain simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
Each optical chain in the array is designed to be functionally equivalent and can operate independently or in combination with others. This universality allows the system to adapt to different lighting conditions and imaging requirements while maintaining a relatively simple, repeatable module design that reduces overall complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for processing images captured by a camera device including multiple optical chains, e.g., camera modules, are described. Three, 4, 5 or more optical chains maybe used. Different optical chains capture different images due to different perspectives. Multiple images, e.g., corresponding to different perspectives, are captured during a time period and are combined to generate a composite image. In some embodiments one of the captured images or a synthesized image is used as a reference image during composite image generation. The image used as the reference image is selected to keep the perspective of sequentially generated composite images consistent despite unintentional came movement and/or in accordance with an expected path of travel. Thus, which camera module provides the reference image may vary over time taking into consideration unintended camera movement. Composite image generation may be performed external to the camera device or in the camera device.