Sensor Array Module Wide Angle Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for increasing the field of view of image sensors using wide-angle lenses are costly, and there is a need for a cost-effective solution to combine multiple images from general image sensors to achieve a wide field of view without overlapping fields of view.
Innovation Solution
A sensor array module with a processor and storage unit that utilizes pre-stored transformation matrices to combine images from multiple image sensors, allowing for a non-overlapping composite field of view by calculating these matrices based on the relative spatial relationships between the sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If wide-angle lens or fisheye lens is used to increase field of view, then field of view is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wide field of view requirement into multiple standard image sensors arranged in an array, each capturing a portion of the total field of view. This segmentation allows using multiple inexpensive standard lenses instead of one expensive wide-angle or fisheye lens, thereby achieving the desired field of view while reducing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines images from multiple standard image sensors to create a composite wide-angle image. By merging the captured images through image processing and calibration, the system achieves a wide field of view equivalent to expensive specialized lenses but using affordable standard components.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple general image sensors are combined to create wide field of view, then cost is reduced, but field of view overlap is required which limits total field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration to determine the exact spatial relationships and fields of view of each sensor in the array before operation. By pre-calculating transformation matrices that account for each sensor's specific viewing angle and position, the system can optimally arrange sensors to maximize total field of view without unnecessary overlap, thereby increasing the effective field of view while maintaining cost effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If field of view of each imaging device overlaps with adjacent devices, then image merging is simplified, but composite field of view is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter approach by using transformation matrices that dynamically adjust for each sensor's specific spatial orientation and field of view characteristics. This mathematical transformation approach allows the system to handle non-overlapping fields of view effectively, maximizing composite field of view while maintaining ease of image merging through automated coordinate transformation and stitching algorithms.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor array module with wide angle for creating a composite image includes a first image sensor, a second image sensor, a storage unit and a processor. The first image sensor is for capturing a first image. The second image sensor is for capturing a second image and has a relative spatial relationship with respective to the first image sensor. The storage unit stores at least one transformation matrix obtained according to the relative spatial relationship between the first and the second image sensors. The processor combines the first image and the second image by using the transformation matrix to create the composite image. The present invention also provides an image calibration method, an operation method and an application for a sensor array module with wide angle.