Phase-Encoded Imaging Optics for Space-Variant Blur Restoration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image enhancement techniques struggle to effectively address space variant blur in optical systems, as methods designed for space invariant blur are inadequate, and conventional image processing methods like Fourier de-convolution and matrix inversion are hindered by noise and ill-conditioned matrices.
Innovation Solution
The use of a phase encoder within the optical system to improve the algebraic representation matrix condition, allowing for more accurate image restoration by enhancing the invertibility and reducing susceptibility to errors during post-processing, combined with image processing techniques that utilize multiple exposures or duplicating and shifting images captured with different numerical apertures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional image processing methods (Fourier de-convolution, matrix inversion) are used to address space variant blur, then image restoration is attempted, but the methods are hindered by noise and ill-conditioned matrices
Solution Approach 1:
The phase encoder is placed in the optical path before the imaging lens to pre-correct the wavefront aberrations. This preliminary action modifies the PSF matrix to improve its condition number, making subsequent image restoration more reliable and less susceptible to noise and errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of the PSF matrix by introducing a phase encoder that modifies the wavefront phase. This transforms the ill-conditioned matrix into a better-conditioned matrix, improving the reliability of image restoration methods.
2Manufacturing precision
If a phase encoder is introduced to improve the algebraic representation matrix condition, then image restoration accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a complex adaptive optics system with deformable mirrors, the invention uses a static phase encoder that replicates the inverse aberration pattern. This copying approach simplifies the device while achieving the same matrix condition improvement.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase encoder uses a simple static optical element (such as a phase mask or diffractive optical element) that is inexpensive and mechanically stable, replacing complex adaptive optical systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple exposures or duplicating and shifting images are used, then image quality improves through better matrix conditioning, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The phase encoder performs the matrix conditioning action in the optical domain during image capture, rather than requiring multiple sequential exposures. This preliminary optical action eliminates the need for time-consuming post-processing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical process of multiple exposures with a single exposure using a phase encoder. This substitution reduces processing time while achieving the same image quality improvement through mathematical matrix conditioning.
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 significantly reduces image blur and improves image quality by enhancing the matrix condition, enabling effective image restoration even in systems with large aberrations, achieving image quality comparable to systems with lower numerical apertures.
Implementation Method 1
a corrector utility which applies a correction function on light passing through the imaging device
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device is presented for use in an imaging system capable of improving the image quality. The imaging device has one or more optical systems defining an effective aperture of the imaging device. The imaging device comprises a lens system having an algebraic representation matrix of a diagonalized form defining a first Condition Number, and a phase encoder utility adapted to effect a second Condition Number of an algebraic representation matrix of the imaging device, smaller than said first Condition Number of the lens system.