Nearly Transparent Imaging System
ID U-6193
Category Hardware, Circuits, & Sensors
Subcategory Optical Sensors
Researchers
Brief Summary
Lens-less, nearly transparent optical sensor for computational generation of images.
Problem Statement
Traditional imaging methods, which are relatively costly and complex, rely on a lens to focus light onto a sensor that records photons.
Technology Description
The proposed invention uses an image recording device placed at the edges of a transparent layer to accurately reproduce an image. A small fraction of the light from the outside scene scatters off imperfections in the transparent layer to reach the image-recording device. The full scene is reproduced computationally from the point sources. The image is captured without a lens and without a direct line of sight to the scene. While the system could be used to capture any image, it is applicable specifically to biometrics and automotive machine vision.
Stage of Development
Benchtop Prototype
Benefit
- Enables lens-less imaging.
- Provides a lighter, less expensive form factor for cameras.
- Facilitates imaging around corners and obstacles.
- Improves imaging that involves rigid, transparent surfaces of various geometries.
Publications
Kim, G., Isaacson, K., Palmer, R., Menon, R. (2017). Ultra-thin lensless camera using a bare sensor and computational techniques. Imaging and Applied Optics 2017 (3D, AIO, COSI, IS, MATH, pcAOP). doi: 10.1364/cosi.2017.ctu3b.4
Kim, G., Isaacson, K., Palmer, R., Menon, R. (2017). Lensless photography with only an image sensor. Applied Optics. 56(23), 6450. doi: 10.1364/ao.56.006450
IP
Publication Number: US-2022-0292648-A1
Patent Title: LENSLESS IMAGING DEVICE
Jurisdiction/Country: United States
Application Type: Non-Provisional
Contact Info
Jonathan Tyler
801-587-0515
jonathan.tyler@utah.edu
