Variable Polarization Axis Apparatus for Multi-Angle Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing polarization acquisition systems for images cannot adjust polarizing filter effects on different areas of a captured image and require dedicated cameras and illumination, limiting the objects that can be imaged and the image capturing conditions.
Innovation Solution
A polarization acquisition apparatus with a variable polarization axis element and driver that changes the polarization transmission axis direction, allowing for multiple captured images to be taken with different polarized light orientations, enabling the acquisition of polarization information post-image capture without restrictions on objects or conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a polarizing filter is used to control reflected light, then the clarity of captured images is improved, but the ability to adjust polarizing effects on different areas of the image is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The image capturing apparatus divides the image into multiple regions with different polarizing filter settings. Each region can have its own polarization axis direction and transmission rate, allowing selective adjustment of polarizing effects on different areas of the captured image while maintaining overall image clarity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the image are assigned different polarizing characteristics based on local requirements. For example, regions with specular reflections use different polarization angles than regions requiring color enhancement, enabling optimized polarizing effects for each local area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a polarizing filter mechanism is added to the image capturing apparatus, then polarization control capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The polarizing filter mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: it can rotate to change polarization axis direction, adjust transmission rate by controlling rotation angle, and apply different settings to different image regions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each polarization control task.
Solution Approach 2:
The polarizing filter is made rotatable with variable angular position, transforming a static filter into a dynamic control element. The rotation mechanism allows continuous adjustment of polarization properties, providing adaptability without requiring multiple discrete filter components.
3Loss of information
If multiple images are captured with different polarized light orientations, then polarization information acquisition is improved, but the image capturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus pre-arranges multiple polarizing filter settings in sequence before image capturing begins. The rotation mechanism is positioned at predetermined angles corresponding to different polarization orientations, allowing rapid sequential capture of multiple polarized images without time-consuming adjustments between shots.
Solution Approach 2:
The polarizing filter rotates through predetermined angular positions in a periodic sequence, capturing images at each position. This rhythmic rotation-capture pattern optimizes the timing and spacing of multiple polarized image acquisitions, reducing total capturing time while ensuring complete polarization information is obtained.
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
Enables the production of images with different textures by calculating polarization information from captured images, separating specular and diffuse reflection components, and producing images with varying textures without dedicated illumination, thus expanding imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a variable polarization axis element in which a direction of its polarization transmission axis is variable
Data Source
AI summary
The polarization acquisition apparatus is configured to allow an image capturing system including an interchangeable lens and an image capturing apparatus to perform image capturing using polarized light. The polarization acquisition apparatus includes a variable polarization axis element in which a direction of its polarization transmission axis is variable, a driver configured to operate the variable polarization axis element so as to change the direction of the polarization transmission axis, a first mount to which the image capturing apparatus is detachably attachable, and a second mount to which the interchangeable lens is detachably attachable. The driver is configured to operate the variable polarization axis element so as to change the direction of the polarization transmission axis to at least three directions when the image capturing is performed multiple times.