Parallel Optical Image Pickup Apparatus Object Detection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image pickup apparatuses with two optical systems arranged in parallel face challenges in accurately detecting objects due to reduced image sensor size, leading to lower object detection accuracy compared to monocular lenses.

Innovation Solution

The image pickup apparatus includes an imaging unit that converts optical images from two parallel optical systems into image data and a processor that determines the main object by analyzing object information from both images, thereby improving detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two optical systems are arranged in parallel to capture images in the same direction, then stereoscopic images with parallax can be obtained, but object detection accuracy deteriorates due to reduced image sensor size

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestereoscopic imaging capabilityVSAvoidobject detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensor is divided into multiple regions, with at least one region dedicated to receiving light from the first optical system and another region dedicated to receiving light from the second optical system. This segmentation allows both optical systems to be utilized effectively while maintaining sufficient image quality for accurate object detection in each region.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-dimensional image capture approach to a multi-dimensional approach by capturing images from two different optical directions simultaneously. The processor then integrates information from both images, effectively adding a dimensional aspect of parallax information while maintaining detection accuracy through coordinated analysis of both image regions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a lens unit with two optical systems is used, then half-sphere images can be captured, but the effective image sensor size is reduced to half

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewide field of view capabilityVSAvoideffective image sensor size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensor area is segmented into distinct regions corresponding to each optical system's field of view. By properly allocating and utilizing both regions, the patent recovers the effective imaging area despite the split-field configuration, allowing accurate object detection across the entire field of view.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the information from both optical systems by having the processor analyze object information from both images and determine a main object based on combined data. This merging approach effectively restores the functional equivalent of a full-size sensor by integrating contributions from both half-sphere images.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If object detection is performed on images from parallel optical systems, then stereoscopic information is obtained, but detection reliability decreases due to potential detection failures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestereoscopic object recognitionVSAvoidobject detection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The processor uses feedback from both image regions to verify and confirm object detection. By cross-referencing object information from the first and second images, the system can validate detection results and maintain high reliability even when one image may have detection difficulties, as the other image provides corroborating information.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary object detection analysis on both images separately before finalizing the main object determination. This preliminary action allows the processor to identify potential objects in both fields of view and then use the combined information to confirm detection reliability, ensuring that objects are detected accurately despite the split-optical-system configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 solution enhances object detection accuracy by utilizing the processor to analyze and prioritize object information from both images, effectively addressing the limitations of parallel optical systems.

Implementation Method 1

an imaging unit configured to photoelectrically convert a first optical image formed by a first optical system to output first image data, and to photoelectrically convert a second optical image formed by a second optical system arranged in parallel with the first optical system to output second image data

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250039533A1Image pickup apparatus, its control method, and storage medium

Publication Date: 2025.01.30 CANON KK

AI summary

An image pickup apparatus includes an imaging unit configured to photoelectrically convert a first optical image formed by a first optical system to output first image data, and to photoelectrically convert a second optical image formed by a second optical system arranged in parallel with the first optical system to output second image data, and a processor configured to determine a main object based on first object information in the first image data and second object information in the second image data.