Switchable Multi-Lens Imaging for Wide View Without Resolution Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image sensors face a trade-off between resolution and field of view, where high-resolution sensors are unsuitable for large fields of view and vice versa, limiting their application in various imaging systems such as vehicle backup cameras and driver assist functions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-lens system with a switchable light valve allows a single image sensor to capture multiple images with different fields of view and focal lengths, enabling the system to switch between views while maintaining resolution without the need for separate imaging systems, using a combination of lenses, reflectors, and light valves to alternate image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a single image sensor is used to capture multiple views with different fields of view and focal lengths, then space requirements are reduced and system integration is improved, but the resolution may be lost or degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a switchable light valve that dynamically changes its state between transmissive and reflective modes to alternately direct light from different lenses to the image sensor. This dynamic switching enables a single sensor to capture multiple views with different fields of view and focal lengths while maintaining resolution, as the sensor receives focused light from whichever lens is currently active.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions by capturing images from different lenses with different fields of view and focal lengths. Through the light valve switching mechanism, the same sensor serves as both a wide-field sensor and a telephoto sensor, eliminating the need for separate imaging systems and reducing space requirements while maintaining full resolution for each view type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a light valve is introduced to switch between different lenses and views, then multi-view capture capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light valve serves as an intermediary component between the multiple lenses and the single image sensor. It mediates the light paths by switching between transmissive and reflective states to direct light from different lenses to the sensor. This intermediary mechanism enables multi-view capture capability while maintaining relatively simple system architecture, as the light valve is a single component that controls all view switching.
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 efficient use of image sensors to capture multiple views with varying fields of view and focal lengths, reducing space requirements and enabling applications like biometric identification, driver monitoring, and 360-degree imaging without loss of resolution.
Implementation Method 1
A light valve may be disposed between the first lens and the image sensor and configured to selectively transmit or reflect light from the first lens to the image sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging system may comprise a first lens and a second lens; at least one light valve; and an image sensor in optical communication with the light valve. The first lens may be in optical communication with the light valve; and the second lens may be in optical communication with the light valve. The light valve may be configured to have a first polarization state and a second polarization state. The first polarization state may allow light to pass through the light valve and the second polarization state may reflect light that strikes the light valve.