Novel multi-aperture approach for miniaturized imaging systems

The vast majority of cameras and imaging sensors relies on the identical single aperture optics principle with the human eye as natural antetype. Multi-aperture approaches-in natural systems so called compound eyes and in technology often referred to as array-cameras-have advantages in terms of miniaturization, simplicity of the optics and additional features such as depth information and refocusing enabled by the computational manipulation of the system's raw image data. The proposed imaging principle is based on a multitude of imaging channels transmitting different parts of the entire field of view. Adapted image processing algorithms are employed for the generation of the overall image by the stitching of the images of the different channels. The restriction of the individual channel's field of view leads to a less complex optical system targeting reduced fabrication cost. Due to a novel, linear morphology of the array camera setup, depth mapping with improved resolution can be achieved. We introduce a novel concept for miniaturized array-cameras with several mega pixel resolution targeting high volume applications in mobile and automotive imaging with improved depth mapping and explain design and fabrication aspects.