Non-linear Optical Axis Panoramic Imaging for Slim Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, face challenges in integrating a panoramic imaging function due to the bulkiness and cost-effectiveness issues of wide-field-of-view camera modules, which are not suitable for slim-type mobile phones.
Innovation Solution
An optical apparatus is installed on the periphery of a portable electronic device, comprising a camera casing with non-linear optical axes for the first and second optical modules, allowing for panoramic image capture by combining images from these modules, and optionally including a third optical module, time-of-flight measuring devices, structured light generation, and projection devices, enhancing functionality without thickness constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a wide-field-of-view camera module is used to achieve panoramic imaging, then the field of view is improved, but the volume and cost increase making it unsuitable for portable devices
Solution Approach 1:
The panoramic imaging function is divided into multiple standard camera modules arranged in specific patterns (linear, triangular, or circular configurations). Each module captures a portion of the panoramic scene, and the images are stitched together to form the complete panoramic image. This segmentation allows the use of compact, cost-effective standard camera modules instead of a single bulky wide-FOV module.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple standard camera modules are combined in specific geometric arrangements (linear array, triangular configuration, or circular pattern) to collectively achieve panoramic imaging capability. The merging of multiple narrow-FOV modules creates an equivalent system to a single wide-FOV module but with reduced individual module sizes and lower overall cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lens modules are arranged in a ring-shaped configuration for panoramic imaging, then the panoramic function is achieved, but the device volume becomes too large for portable electronic devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional ring-shaped arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration where camera modules are positioned at different spatial coordinates (linear arrangement along an axis, triangular configuration in space, or circular pattern in a plane). This dimensional change allows for more compact overall device volume while maintaining panoramic imaging capability through multiple viewing angles.
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 integration of a panoramic function into portable electronic devices, providing enhanced imaging capabilities while maintaining a slim form factor and cost-effectiveness by using non-linear optical axes and additional features like structured light and time-of-flight measurement.
Implementation Method 1
The first optical module receives an ambient light to capture a first image. The second optical module receives the ambient light to capture a second image
Data Source
AI summary
An optical apparatus includes a camera casing, a first optical module and a second optical module. The first optical module and the second optical module are installed on the camera casing. The first optical module receives an ambient light to capture a first image. The second optical module receives the ambient light to capture a second image, or the second optical module senses the ambient light. At least one of the first optical module and the second optical module has a non-linear optical axis in order to replace the front camera module and the rear camera module of the conventional panoramic camera. The optical apparatus is additionally installed on a periphery region of a portable electronic device or an extension position extended from the periphery region. Consequently, the optical apparatus provides a sufficient space to accommodate the first optical module and the second optical module.