Multi-Camera Sensor System Virtual Camera Movement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera technologies face limitations in coverage, image quality, and physical constraints, such as blind spots, inadequate zoom, and mechanical instability, across various applications like surveillance, video conferencing, and film production, leading to unsatisfactory performance and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A multi-camera sensor system that uses software to create a virtual camera with a defined field of view by stitching image data from multiple sensors mounted on flexible, adaptable surfaces, allowing for virtual camera movements without physical camera repositioning, thus overcoming physical laws like gravity and vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple single camera solutions are used for larger installations, then coverage area is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera sensors into a single integrated sensor array unit. Multiple individual camera sensors are combined and mounted together as one cohesive device, eliminating the need for separate mounting of multiple cameras while maintaining comprehensive coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor array unit serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides wide-area coverage, can be mounted in various positions, and replaces multiple separate camera systems. This multi-functional design reduces installation complexity while maintaining extensive coverage capabilities.
2Area of stationary object
If ultrawide and wide lenses are used, then coverage area is improved, but image quality of objects of interest deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array is divided into multiple individual camera sensors, each with its own lens optimized for specific viewing angles. Different segments of the array can have different lens characteristics, allowing some sensors to capture wide coverage while others maintain higher image quality for specific areas of interest.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sensor array have different optical characteristics tailored to their specific functions. Sensors positioned to capture areas of interest use lenses optimized for image quality, while other sensors use wider lenses for broader coverage, achieving both goals simultaneously through localized optimization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanically moving single-lens PTZ cameras are used, then adaptability is improved, but reliability and image stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical moving camera systems with a fixed sensor array combined with digital image processing. Instead of physically moving a single camera to achieve different views, the system uses multiple fixed sensors capturing simultaneous images that are then processed and stitched digitally, eliminating mechanical components and their associated reliability issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates multiple virtual camera views through digital processing of images from fixed sensors. Rather than physically moving one camera, the system generates multiple copies or perspectives of the scene through image stitching and processing algorithms, achieving adaptability without mechanical movement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If software controlled zoom and focus are used, then adaptability is improved, but image quality and camera stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the imaging function across multiple fixed sensors with different field of view characteristics. Instead of relying on software zoom of a single lens, each sensor captures images at its optimal focus and field of view, with the composite result providing both wide coverage and detailed views of areas of interest.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a multiple camera sensor system and a method for any application and for a large number of different fields. The present invention is solving certain problems related to existing camera technology issues by introducing the possibility of getting several different camera inputs from the same source or moving shots/images without physically moving any cameras. It will minimize the physical presence of existing camera technology, size, weight and design and also to large extent avoid physical laws like gravity, vibrations, acceleration, retardation and speed. This may be implemented by means of a software virtually moving camera using multiple cameras sensors mounted consecutively along some attachment solution. This attachment solution may include e.g. tape or strips. The invention can be utilized in areas like industry and production support, medical appliances, AV production, Video Conferencing, Broadcast, Surveillance and Security among others.