Microlens Array with Varying Focal Lengths for Subject Attribute Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microlens arrays with uniformly configured microlenses struggle to identify a variety of attributes of a subject, as they result in low-resolution images and difficulty in distinguishing between objects of the same category.
Innovation Solution
An image processing system utilizing an optical member with a plurality of transmissive units having different optical properties, allowing for the capture of images with varying resolutions that reflect different optical properties, enabling the identification of multiple attributes of a subject.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a microlens array with uniformly configured microlenses is used, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the image resolution deteriorates and the ability to identify subject attributes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring microlenses with different optical properties (different focal lengths) at different positions within the microlens array. Specifically, microlenses are arranged such that those corresponding to different subject areas have different focal lengths, enabling each region to capture images optimized for its specific distance range. This resolves the contradiction by sacrificing uniform manufacturing simplicity in favor of position-specific optical optimization, thereby improving subject attribute identification accuracy without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If microlenses with different focal lengths are used to capture images of different subject areas, then the identification accuracy of subject attributes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the microlens array into multiple regions, each containing microlenses with identical focal lengths tailored for specific subject areas. This segmentation allows the complex optical system to be organized into manageable modules, where each segment handles a particular distance range or subject type. The segmentation strategy improves subject attribute identification accuracy while controlling device complexity through systematic regional differentiation rather than complete heterogeneity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the microlens array to simultaneously capture images of multiple subject areas with different focal lengths within a single integrated structure. The image sensor array receives and processes images from all microlenses concurrently, enabling the system to perform multiple functions (capturing near and far subjects) without requiring separate optical systems. This multi-functionality approach improves identification accuracy across diverse subjects while avoiding the complexity of multiple independent optical systems.
3Ease of operation
If the entire subject is captured in a low-resolution state, then the ease of operation is improved and processing is simplified, but the ability to distinguish objects of the same category deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling flexible selection and processing of images with different resolutions based on the specific subject area and identification requirements. The system can dynamically choose to process high-resolution images for specific regions when detailed distinction is needed, while maintaining simplified processing for other areas. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt between ease of operation and object distinction capability depending on the specific identification task at hand.
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
The system achieves the ability to identify a variety of attributes of a subject, including type and physical changes, by capturing images with different optical properties, thereby enhancing the accuracy of recognizing subjects within the same category.
Implementation Method 1
a microlens array comprising a plurality of microlenses arranged for directing light from an object to the photosensor array
Data Source
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AI summary
Technology that enables a variety of attributes of a subject to be enabled is provided. An image processing system according to an aspect of the invention includes: an optical sensor including: an optical member configured to refract light from a subject, the optical member including a plurality of transmissive units that have different optical properties, thus forming different refraction patterns of light that passes therethrough; and a plurality of image sensors configured to receive light that has passed through the transmissive units and to form captured images in which the subject appears; and an information processing apparatus configured to calculate attribute information representing an attribute of the subject by inputting the captured images obtained by the image sensors to a learning device that has learned the attribute of the subject.