Thin form factor computational array cameras and modular array cameras

摘要

Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention implement modular array cameras using sub-array modules. In one embodiment, an X×Y sub-array module includes: an X×Y arrangement of focal planes, where X and Y are each greater than or equal to 1; and an X×Y arrangement of lens stacks, the X×Y arrangement of lens stacks being disposed relative to the X×Y arrangement of focal planes so as to form an X×Y arrangement of cameras, where each lens stack has a field of view that is shifted with respect to the field-of-views of each other lens stack so that each shift includes a sub-pixel shifted view of the scene; and image data output circuitry that is configured to output image data from the X×Y sub-array module that can be aggregated with image data from other sub-array modules so that an image of the scene can be constructed.

主权项

1. An X×Y sub-array module comprising:
an X×Y arrangement of focal planes, wherein:
X and Y are each greater than or equal to 1;each focal plane comprises a plurality of rows of pixels that also form a plurality of columns of pixels;each focal plane does not include pixels from another focal plane; andthe X×Y arrangement of focal planes are embodied within an integrated circuit that does not include any focal planes of another X×Y sub-array module; and an X×Y arrangement of lens stacks, the X×Y arrangement of lens stacks being disposed relative to the X×Y arrangement of focal planes so as to form an X×Y arrangement of cameras, each of which being configured to independently capture an image of a scene, wherein each lens stack has a field of view that is shifted with respect to the field-of-views of each other lens stack so that each shift includes a sub-pixel shifted view of the scene; image data output circuitry that is configured to output image data from the X×Y sub-array module that is capable of being aggregated with image data from other sub-array modules to construct so that an image of the scene; and interface circuitry configured to couple, either directly or indirectly, with one of: another X×Y sub-array module or a processor that is in electrical communication with at least one other X×Y sub-array module;
wherein the interface circuitry is configured to transmit output image data to a directly or indirectly coupled X×Y sub-array module or a directly or indirectly coupled processor that is in electrical communication with at least one other X×Y sub-array module.