Spatially Varying Polarizer Camera for Compact High-Resolution Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to enhance image capture capabilities in compact consumer electronics device cameras, such as smartphones and head-mounted displays, while maintaining a small form factor, by effectively utilizing spatially varying polarizers and optical components to improve image quality and resolution.
Innovation Solution
A camera device employing a spatially varying polarizer that diffracts light into components with different polarizations, which are then optically corrected by separate optical portions and captured by sensors, with a controller managing the polarizer and sensor filter states to alternate between polarization states for improved image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple optical components are added to enhance image capture capabilities, then image quality and resolution are improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (polarization separation, diffraction, optical correction, and image capture) into a single integrated optical system. The spatially varying polarizer and optical portions work together in one compact arrangement to achieve what would traditionally require separate components, thereby improving image quality without significantly increasing device volume
Solution Approach 2:
The optical portions perform multiple functions simultaneously: they receive diffracted light components, perform optical correction (including aberration correction and focal length modification), and direct light to appropriate sensors. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, maintaining compact device size while enhancing image capture capabilities
2Measurement precision
If spatially varying polarizers and optical correction components are implemented, then image resolution and quality are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical system into distinct functional modules: a spatially varying polarizer for polarization separation, multiple optical portions for different correction functions, and sensors for capture. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system manageability and reducing design complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The spatially varying polarizer provides different optical properties at different locations to separate polarization components, and the optical portions provide localized correction for specific light components. This local optimization allows complex correction functions to be achieved without requiring complex global system design
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 configuration allows for enhanced image sharpening, focal length modification, and aberration correction, enabling the capture of two full-resolution images from consecutive frames, effectively doubling the resolution and improving image quality within a compact form factor.
Implementation Method 1
diffract a first component of the light at a first angle and a second component of the light at a second angle
Implementation Method 2
the first component having a first polarization and the second component having a second polarization different from the first polarization
Implementation Method 3
The first optical portion may be configured to perform at least one of diffraction according to a diffraction pattern
Implementation Method 4
light focusing
Implementation Method 5
aberration correction
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the present disclosure provide a compact camera device that utilizes one or more spatially varying polarizers, such as one or more multi-twist retarders, to provide compact designs with improved performance. The spatially varying polarizers may be used to multiplex light received by a camera, which allows optics to modify (e.g., focus) incident light in a polarization specific manner to provide better resolution, reduced form factor, or other advantages.