Virtual Lens Optical System for Multi-Object Focus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems rely on fixed-focal length lenses and mechanical means for focusing, limiting their ability to focus on multiple objects simultaneously and restrict usage to a single user, with AI systems also facing similar constraints in data gathering applications.
Innovation Solution
A virtual lens optical system utilizing an array of image sensors that mathematically processes light to achieve dynamic focusing and zooming, allowing multiple objects to be in focus at once and enabling simultaneous image streaming to different displays, with optional physical lenses for protection or filtering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-focal length lenses are used, then the optical system structure is simple, but the system can only focus on one object at a time and requires mechanical means for focusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical lens movement with computational algorithms. Instead of physically moving lenses to change focus, the system uses image processing techniques to achieve focusing effects computationally, allowing multiple focal lengths and multiple objects to be in focus simultaneously without mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multiple virtual copies of the optical system with different focal lengths through computational methods. By processing the single captured image through multiple virtual lens models, the system generates multiple focused views of different depths, enabling simultaneous observation of multiple objects at different distances
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical means are used for focusing, then the lens can be focused on one object, but the system is only usable to one user at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static focal length into a dynamic, user-selectable parameter. The computational approach allows focal length and focus depth to be changed instantly through software control, enabling multiple users to simultaneously access and control different focus settings without mechanical constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the optical system serve multiple users and multiple functions simultaneously. A single physical sensor array can provide multiple virtual views with different focal lengths to different users at the same time, eliminating the single-user limitation of mechanical systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If lenses with fixed focal lengths are used, then the optical system is simple, but zooming and focusing cannot be changed dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the focal length parameter dynamically through computational processing rather than physical lens adjustment. By applying different optical transfer functions and processing algorithms to the captured image, the system can instantly switch between multiple focal lengths and focus settings without changing the physical optical configuration
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 multiple users to focus on different objects simultaneously, enhancing security and surveillance systems, and improving AI-based threat assessment by dynamically adjusting focal lengths and zooming without mechanical constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The image sensors, which may include thermal sensors, may be interleaved or allocated to a same resolution or to a different resolution. The light or image detected by the sensors can be processed simultaneously through multiple signal processing (DSP) engines.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system has a virtual lens comprising an array of image sensors and processor in communication with the virtual lens and configured to focus the at least one virtual lens by way of mathematical image processing of a dynamic object plane.