Polarization-Encoded Imaging System for Compact 3D Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D imaging technologies require dedicated illumination sources, expensive equipment, and substantial computational resources, making them unsuitable for common imaging devices like digital cameras and smart devices.
Innovation Solution
A 3D imaging technique using an optical system with at least two partial apertures having predetermined geometrical and polarization properties to determine optical path differences and spatial locations of intertwined images, processed by a detector assembly and processor to calculate distances on the object surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If structured-light 3D imaging techniques are used to measure precise 3D shapes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and measurement time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a conventional 2D camera to capture optical path difference information by encoding it through polarization filters and aperture masks, effectively copying the function of complex structured light systems using simpler, commercially available components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the measurement approach by changing from direct spatial encoding (structured light patterns) to optical path difference encoding through polarization and aperture modulation, allowing precise 3D measurement with simpler optics
2Speed
If TOF range-imaging techniques are used to measure distances, then measurement speed is improved, but measurement precision and spatial resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the aperture into multiple zones with different polarization orientations, allowing simultaneous capture of multiple optical path differences in a single exposure, thereby improving spatial resolution without sacrificing measurement speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds polarization dimension to the measurement process, using polarization-encoded aperture masks to encode depth information in the polarization domain, enabling high-resolution 3D measurement at video frame rates
3Measurement precision
If dedicated illumination sources and specialized equipment are used for 3D imaging, then measurement precision is improved, but device portability and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes conventional 2D cameras multi-functional by adding polarization filters and aperture masks, enabling them to perform both 2D imaging and 3D optical path difference measurement with the same device
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the camera's existing sensor and processing capabilities to extract 3D information from polarization-encoded images, eliminating the need for specialized detectors or complex computational hardware
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 fast, portable, compact, and low-power 3D imaging capable of constructing detailed 3D models using regular devices, improving spatial resolution and dynamic range.
Implementation Method 1
at least two partial apertures having predetermined geometrical and polarization properties to determine optical path differences
Implementation Method 2
determine optical path differences and spatial locations of intertwined images formed by light components passed through the at least two partial apertures
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device comprising a detector assembly having sensor elements configured to measure intensity of light/radiation thereby received and generate measurement data/signals indicative thereof, an aperture assembly having at least two partial apertures configured to divide light/radiation received from an object into at least two components having different polarization orientations, a polarizer arrangement located between the detector assembly and the aperture assembly, wherein the polarizer arrangement is configured to affect at least two different polarization orientations to light passing therethrough onto at least two sensor elements of the detector assembly, and a processor unit configured to process the measurement data/signals from the at least two sensor elements, and determine based thereon a distance of the object from the imaging device.