Reflective Pyramid Panoramic Imaging System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panoramic imaging systems require multiple cameras and complex image processing to achieve a 360° field of view, often resulting in blind regions and limited vertical field of view, especially in applications with low conjugate ratios like endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
A single-image sensor panoramic imaging system using a reflective pyramid with convex faces or immersed in high refractive index material, which allows for a larger vertical field of view and eliminates blind regions by adjusting the centers of perspective and refractive indices, effectively integrating the pyramid as part of the optical objective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are used to achieve 360° panoramic field of view, then the field of view coverage is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera functions into a single image sensor by using a pyramid optical element that redirects light from different directions to the same sensor. This combining approach achieves 360° panoramic coverage without requiring multiple separate cameras, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive field of view coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The pyramid optical element serves as an intermediary between the external environment and the single image sensor. It redirects light rays from different directions (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) to the sensor, enabling the single sensor to capture panoramic views that would otherwise require multiple cameras, thus reducing system complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are arranged to provide panoramic view, then the field of view is expanded, but the vertical field of view remains limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by using a pyramid structure with convex faces that operates in three-dimensional space. The pyramid's geometry (with apex angle of 90° and face angles of 60°) enables light redirection from multiple directions including vertical angles, allowing a single sensor to achieve both horizontal 360° coverage and expanded vertical field of view simultaneously.
3Area of stationary object
If conventional panoramic systems are used, then 360° coverage is achieved, but blind regions remain in the image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs convex curved surfaces on the pyramid faces instead of flat surfaces. This curvature enables broader light acceptance angles and eliminates blind regions by ensuring that light rays from all directions (including extreme angles) can be redirected to the image sensor. The convex geometry provides overlapping fields of view that cover the entire 360° panorama without gaps.
4Area of stationary object
If pyramid is used with standard refractive index material, then panoramic imaging is achieved, but the vertical field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the refractive index parameter of the pyramid material from standard values to high refractive index materials (such as certain glasses or plastics with n > 1.5). This parameter change increases the light bending capability at the pyramid faces, enabling expanded vertical field of view while maintaining the 360° horizontal panoramic coverage, without requiring multiple cameras or complex lens systems.
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
The system achieves a seamless 360° composite image with a larger vertical field of view and reduced blind regions, suitable for compact, low-power applications such as endoscopes, while maintaining low computational overhead.
Implementation Method 1
an arrangement employing a pyramid with convex faces to provide a panoramic field of view to a camera or other imaging system
Implementation Method 2
an arrangement employing a pyramid immersed or suitably enveloped in a high refractive index transparent material such as glass or plastic to provide a panoramic field of view to a camera or other imaging system
Data Source
AI summary
An optical imaging system and method for producing panoramic images exhibiting a substantial field of view.