Multi-Pixel Array Imaging Device for Depth of Field Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital imaging devices are limited by a fixed depth of field, limited field of view, and dynamic range, which restricts their ability to capture high-resolution images with multiple focus distances and high frame rates.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple pixel groups with different fields of view and lenses focused on distinct areas of an image sensor, allowing for simultaneous exposure and processing to generate high dynamic range, high-frame-rate, and expanded field of view images, as well as super-resolution images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single lens focuses image light onto a single image sensor with fixed depth of field, then the device structure is simple, but the device can only capture one depth of field at a time and has limited versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is divided into multiple pixel arrays, where each pixel array is focused at a different depth of field. This segmentation allows the system to capture multiple depth of fields simultaneously while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel array serves multiple functions by being focused at different depths, allowing the single image sensor to capture images with various depth of fields. This multi-functionality enables one device to perform what would traditionally require multiple separate imaging systems.
2Productivity
If conventional imaging devices use a single pixel array, then the device complexity is low, but the field of view and frame rate are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is segmented into multiple pixel arrays that can operate independently and simultaneously. This allows parallel image capture at different fields of view and depth of fields, effectively multiplying the frame rate capability while managing complexity through standardized modular units.
3Measurement precision
If a single lens is used to focus image light, then the optical system is simple, but the dynamic range and resolution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple lenses, each focused at different depths, with each lens corresponding to a specific pixel array. This segmentation enables simultaneous capture of multiple depth planes with high resolution, overcoming the limitations of single-lens systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pixel arrays and their corresponding lenses are merged into a single integrated image sensor device. This merging allows the system to achieve enhanced resolution and dynamic range by combining data from multiple focused planes while maintaining a unified device structure.
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 images with multiple depths of field, increased dynamic range, and higher frame rates, overcoming the limitations of conventional digital imaging devices by combining image data from multiple pixel groups and lenses.
Implementation Method 1
lenses focused on distinct areas of an image sensor, allowing for simultaneous exposure and processing to generate high dynamic range, high-frame-rate, and expanded field of view images
Implementation Method 2
image sensor that measures the image light and generates an image based on the measurements
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a first pixel array arrange to capture a first image and a second pixel array arranged to capture a second image. The imaging device also includes shutter control circuitry which is coupled to the first pixel array to initiate a first exposure period of the first pixel array to capture the first image. The shutter control circuitry is also coupled to the second pixel array to initiate a second exposure period of the second pixel array to capture the second image. The imaging device also includes processing logic coupled to receive first pixel data of the first image and coupled to receive second pixel data of the second image. The processing logic is configured to generate at least one image using the first pixel data and the second pixel data.