Multi-Region Polarization Filter for Depth and Normal Line Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Polarization cameras are limited in the information they can acquire, restricting their range of applications, despite their usefulness in image analysis for plane direction and transparent object detection.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a filter having multiple regions transmitting different light components, imaging elements detecting luminance distribution in multiple directions, and an image processing section analyzing this distribution to generate diverse information about a subject, including distance and normal line information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a polarization filter is mounted on sensors to acquire polarization information, then plane direction information and transparent object detection are improved, but the range of acquirable information is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The polarization filter is divided into multiple regions with different transmission characteristics. Each region transmits different light components (s-polarized, p-polarized, and unpolarized light), allowing simultaneous acquisition of multiple types of information from a single image without requiring multiple separate filters or cameras.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device with the multi-region polarization filter serves multiple functions simultaneously: it captures polarization information for plane direction detection, transparent object detection, and distance information acquisition. This single device structure replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized devices, enhancing adaptability while maintaining measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If polarization cameras are used for diverse information processing, then application range is improved, but the inherent limitation in information acquisition restricts performance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention adds a new dimension to polarization imaging by incorporating distance information acquisition capability. The multi-region filter structure enables the camera to capture not only polarization properties but also depth/distance data, transforming a 2D polarization imaging system into a 3D-capable system without losing existing polarization information capabilities.
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 acquisition of diverse information about a subject using polarization data, enhancing the capabilities of polarization cameras and facilitating their use in various applications by generating detailed depth and normal line images.
Implementation Method 1
a filter configured to have multiple regions transmitting different light components, imaging elements configured to detect a luminance distribution of polarization components in multiple directions of light transmitted by the filter
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a filter, imaging elements, and an image processing section. The filter has a plurality of regions transmitting different light components. The imaging elements detect a luminance distribution of polarization components in a plurality of directions of light transmitted by the filter. The image processing section analyzes the detected luminance distribution based on correlation between the components, thereby generating a plurality of items of information about a subject.