Polarization Image Pickup Device for Inner Layer Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image pickup devices face challenges in obtaining highly accurate information from biological bodies due to high scattering of near-infrared rays, leading to incomplete or inaccurate images of inner layers, especially when using polarized light for biometric authentication.
Innovation Solution
An image pickup device that casts light of a prescribed polarization direction on a scattering body and captures images at multiple polarization angles, using a multi-polarization filter and processor to generate and output inner layer images based on depth from the surface, effectively separating diffused and surface reflection components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If polarized light is used to remove surface-reflected light components, then measurement precision of pigment compositions is improved, but device complexity increases due to polarization filtering mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical polarization filter adjustment mechanisms with a computational approach. Multiple images are captured at different polarization angles using a polarization filter, and then image processing algorithms computationally separate surface-reflected light components from internal light components. This substitutes mechanical adjustment with optical capture and digital processing, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical polarization filter adjustments are used to capture images at different polarization angles, then image pickup flexibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by capturing multiple images at different polarization angles in sequence. The polarization filter is adjusted to predetermined angles (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) and images are captured at each angle. This systematic periodic capture eliminates the need for manual adjustment during operation, as all necessary images are automatically acquired through the predefined sequence, improving ease of operation while maintaining image pickup flexibility.
3Measurement precision
If multiple images at different polarization angles are captured, then inner layer image accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases due to multiple capture steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the polarization angles at which images should be captured. The system is configured with predetermined angle settings (such as 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) that are established before operation. This preliminary configuration allows the image pickup device to automatically capture all necessary images without real-time decision-making or adjustment, reducing the time loss associated with multiple capture steps while maintaining inner layer image accuracy.
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 allows for accurate acquisition of both surface and deep-layer information, enhancing biometric authentication accuracy and reducing noise, while eliminating the need for mechanical polarization filter adjustments, thus improving cost-effectiveness and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
illumination device that casts light of a prescribed polarization direction on a scattering body
Implementation Method 2
camera that picks up images of the scattering body at a plurality of different polarization angles
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes an illumination device that casts light of a prescribed polarization direction on a scattering body, a camera that picks up images of the scattering body at a plurality of different polarization angles, and a processor that executes a process of generating and outputting an inner layer image, of an inner layer of an inside of the scattering body, in response to a depth from a surface of the scattering body on the basis of the images of the scattering body picked up at the plurality of different polarization angles.