Multi-Optical Chain Zoom System for Compact Camera Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for photographic methods and apparatus that combine the benefits of large lenses, such as high light capture and compact size, while minimizing the disadvantages of small focal length lenses, including limited dynamic range and depth of field, without requiring large, heavy lenses.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple optical chain modules with different focal lengths, allowing for switching between groups of optical chains to support zoom operations, and combining images from these modules to generate composite images that enhance light capture and image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If large aperture lenses are used to capture more light, then image quality and light capture ability improve, but lens weight and camera size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into multiple separate optical chains, each with its own image sensor and lens assembly. Instead of using one large aperture lens, the system uses several smaller lenses working in parallel to capture light from different directions and angles, which are then combined to form a composite image with enhanced light capture capability equivalent to or exceeding that of a single large lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines images captured by multiple optical chains with different focal lengths and viewing angles into a single composite image. This merging process integrates the light capture benefits of multiple smaller lenses to achieve the illumination performance of a larger lens while maintaining a compact form factor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If long focal length lenses are used to achieve telephoto capability, then ability to capture distant objects improves, but lens size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the telephoto function across multiple optical chains with different focal lengths. Instead of relying on a single long focal length lens that would extend the camera body, the system uses several shorter lenses that can be arranged compactly, with their combined optical paths providing the effective telephoto magnification through digital processing and image fusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional optical path (one lens) to a multi-dimensional arrangement of multiple optical chains. By capturing images from different spatial positions and angles simultaneously, the system achieves telephoto capability through the combination of multiple shorter optical paths rather than extending a single long optical path.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical chains with different focal lengths are used to support zoom operations, then zoom range and image quality improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs each optical chain module as a universal, self-contained unit that includes its own lens, image sensor, and processing capability. Each module can independently capture images at its designated focal length, and the system can selectively activate different modules or combinations thereof to achieve various zoom levels, making the overall system versatile without requiring complex mechanical zoom mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different optical chains based on the desired zoom level and scene requirements. The system can dynamically select which optical chains to activate and how to combine their images, providing adaptive zoom capability that responds to user input and scene conditions without requiring physical movement of lens elements or mechanical adjustment of focal lengths.
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
This approach enables improved image quality with a larger dynamic range and artistic effects like depth of field, while maintaining a compact camera size and reducing the need for large, heavy lenses.
Implementation Method 1
A megapixel (MP or Mpx) is one million pixels. The term is often used to indicate the number of pixels in an image or to express the number of image sensor elements of a digital camera where each sensor element normally corresponds to one pixel.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for supporting zoom operations using a plurality of optical chain modules, e.g., camera modules, are described. Switching between use of groups of optical chains with different focal lengths is used to support zoom operations. Digital zoom is used in some cases to support zoom levels corresponding to levels between the zoom levels of different optical chain groups or discrete focal lengths to which optical chains may be switched. In some embodiments optical chains have adjustable focal lengths and are switched between different focal lengths. In other embodiments optical chains have fixed focal lengths with different optical chain groups corresponding to different fixed focal lengths. Composite images are generate from images captured by multiple optical chains of the same group and/or different groups. Composite image is in accordance with a user zoom control setting. Individual composite images may be generated and/or a video sequence.