Optical Element Assembly with Segmented Focal Lengths for Depth Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for estimating the distance or farness/nearness of an object using a single camera are limited in accuracy and efficiency, particularly when dealing with multiple objects or varying depths, as they rely on single focal lengths and lack robustness in image acquisition across different wavelengths.
Innovation Solution
An optical apparatus comprising a wavelength selection portion with multiple regions and an imaging optical element with distinct focal lengths, allowing for simultaneous acquisition of images in different color channels, which are then processed to estimate depth distances using contrast analysis and depth-from-defocus techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single camera with single focal length is used for distance estimation, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging optical element is divided into multiple regions with different focal lengths, allowing the system to capture images at multiple depths simultaneously. This segmentation enables accurate distance estimation for objects at varying distances without requiring multiple separate cameras or lenses.
Solution Approach 2:
A single imaging optical element performs multiple functions by incorporating regions with different focal lengths. This multi-functional design allows the system to estimate distances to objects at various depths using one optical component, avoiding the complexity of multiple cameras while maintaining high measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used for depth acquisition, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity and loss of substance increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple imaging functions are merged into a single imaging optical element by integrating regions with different focal lengths. This combining approach achieves depth acquisition accuracy comparable to multiple cameras while reducing system resources, as it eliminates the need for multiple separate camera systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The single imaging optical element serves multiple purposes by capturing images at different focal distances simultaneously, replacing the need for multiple cameras and reducing overall system resource requirements while maintaining depth measurement precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single focal length imaging is used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to varying depths is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging optical element is segmented into multiple regions, each with a different focal length optimized for specific depth ranges. This segmentation enables the system to adapt to objects at varying distances, providing wide depth range coverage while maintaining a relatively simple single-element structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of focal length variation within a single optical element by creating regions with different focal lengths. This dimensional change allows the system to cover a wide range of depths without increasing overall structural complexity, as all regions are integrated into one optical element.
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 enables accurate and simultaneous estimation of depth distances and farness/nearness of objects by capturing images in multiple color channels, enhancing estimation accuracy and robustness across varying focal lengths and wavelengths.
Implementation Method 1
The wavelength selection portion includes a plurality of wavelength selection regions and is configured to emit wavelengths different among the plurality of wavelength selection regions
Implementation Method 2
The imaging optical element includes a plurality of different regions, and the plurality of different regions has focal lengths different from each other
Implementation Method 3
Each of the regions of the imaging optical element optically faces corresponding one of the wavelength selection regions of the wavelength selection portion
Data Source
AI summary
According to the embodiment, an optical element assembly includes a wavelength selection portion and an imaging optical element. The wavelength selection portion includes a plurality of wavelength selection regions. The wavelength selection portion is configured to emit wavelengths different among the plurality of wavelength selection regions. The imaging optical element includes a plurality of different regions. The plurality of regions of the imaging optical element has focal lengths different from each other. Each of the regions of the imaging optical element optically faces corresponding one of the wavelength selection regions of the wavelength selection portion.