Planar Reflector Layout for Wide-Field High-Resolution Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture systems struggle to capture high-aspect ratio target areas at sufficiently high resolution without requiring multiple cameras or heavy-duty equipment, often compromising image quality due to limited field of view and resolution when positioned far from the target area.
Innovation Solution
A reflector device comprising a specific arrangement of planar mirrors that directs light from multiple subareas of a target area to a single image capture device, allowing capture of the entire area at high resolution without the need for multiple cameras or fixed installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a camera is placed at a significant distance from a real-world target area to capture the entire area, then the field of view is sufficient, but the resolution of the captured image is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The target area is divided into multiple subareas, each captured by a separate camera. The cameras are positioned to capture specific portions of the target area, allowing each camera to maintain high resolution while collectively covering the entire wide area. The captured images are then combined to form a complete high-resolution view of the entire target area.
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used to capture the entire area at sufficient resolution, then the image quality is improved, but the device complexity and placement requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The target area is divided into multiple subareas, each captured by a separate camera. The cameras are positioned to capture specific portions of the target area, allowing each camera to maintain high resolution while collectively covering the entire wide area. The captured images are then combined to form a complete high-resolution view of the entire target area.
3Measurement precision
If high-end camera systems are used to capture wide area at high resolution, then the image quality is sufficient, but the equipment becomes large, heavy, and requires fixed installation
Solution Approach 1:
The target area is divided into multiple subareas, each captured by a separate camera. The cameras are positioned to capture specific portions of the target area, allowing each camera to maintain high resolution while collectively covering the entire wide area. The captured images are then combined to form a complete high-resolution view of the entire target area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple standard cameras instead of a single high-end camera system. These standard cameras are lighter, more portable, and can be easily repositioned. By using multiple simpler devices rather than one complex high-end system, the overall weight and installation complexity are reduced while achieving the same imaging quality.
4Device complexity
If a single camera is used to capture wide area, then the device complexity is reduced, but the field of view is limited and resolution is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The target area is divided into multiple subareas, each captured by a separate camera. The cameras are positioned to capture specific portions of the target area, allowing each camera to maintain high resolution while collectively covering the entire wide area. The captured images are then combined to form a complete high-resolution view of the entire target area.
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 capture of wide field of view images at high resolution using a single portable device, such as a smartphone, with minimal waste area and the ability to transmit data via a network for storage and manipulation, facilitating convenient and detailed image analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflector configured to receive light from a first subarea of the real-world target area, a second reflector configured to receive light from a second subarea of the real-world target area... the first reflector is configured to direct the light from the first subarea to the third reflector, the second reflector is configured to direct the light from the second subarea to the third reflector
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
Devices and methods for image capture of a real-world target area are disclosed. A reflector device comprises a frame configured to retain an image capture device comprising at least one camera, a first reflector configured to receive light from a first subarea of the real-world target area, a second reflector configured to receive light from a second subarea of the real-world target area, and a third reflector, wherein, the first reflector is configured to direct the light from the first subarea to the third reflector, the second reflector is configured to direct the light from the second subarea to the third reflector, and the third reflector is configured to direct the light from the first and second subareas to a first camera of the image capture device such that the first camera is enabled to capture an image of the first and second subareas, wherein the image capture device is enabled to capture an image of a third subarea of the real-world target area.