CN209402588U - camera device - Google Patents

Abstract

The utility model discloses a camera device, which comprises: a rigid component, including a slender handle part and a docking frame, and the slender handle part has a longitudinal central axis; a camera platform component, including a first and a second camera platform; a first and a second camera platform Two ultra-wide-angle cameras are mounted on the first and second camera platforms, including respective ultra-wide-angle lenses; pivoting elements engage the first and second camera platforms to define a pivot axis; the pivoting elements are configured to enable each camera platform to The first and second platform structures pivot relative to the elongated handle portion. In the first platform configuration, the first and second camera platforms are arranged back-to-back. In the second platform configuration, the first and second camera platforms are arranged side by side. The docking frame is bisected by the longitudinal central axis of the elongated handle portion. When the camera platforms are in the first platform configuration, the respective centerlines of the two super wide-angle lenses are laterally offset from the longitudinal center axis of the elongated handle portion in the direction of the pivot axis.

Description

camera device

technical field

The utility model relates to an imaging device and a related use method for them. More specifically, the present invention relates to an imaging device including an ultra-wide-angle camera, which is suitable for stereoscopic and panoramic photography.

Background technique

This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art, which may be related to various aspects of the present invention, which are hereinafter described and/or claimed. It is believed that these discussions help to provide the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, these statements should be read in this text, and not as admissions of prior art.

There is a growing consumer demand for handheld electronic devices capable of performing functions that previously required larger devices and expensive software. In the field of photography, there is interest in being able to produce more complex images beyond the ordinary digital still and video images known for many years. Such complex images include panoramic images wider than 180°, even up to 360°, that is, surround images that can be used for viewers in "virtual reality", or even on conventional displays that allow viewers to move their panoramas within the panorama. view; for example, on the popular video site Youtube, such a panning viewing feature is available. Creating a panoramic image from multiple images involves techniques such as stitching the images together and resolving any overlap between them. Another example of a complex image is a stereoscopic image, where the illusion of depth in the image is created or enhanced by stereopsis. This illusion of depth, often referred to as "3D" (short for three dimensions), is prevalent in all types of media. Therefore, there is a need for a device capable of performing these various functions including: image acquisition and display of complex images formed therefrom, and also image processing functions and image manipulations without downloading or transmitting the original acquired images.

Contents of the invention

The purpose of this utility model is to provide a camera device that can perform these various functions, including: image acquisition and the display of complex images formed by it, and can also perform image processing functions and image operations without downloading or transmitting the original acquisition Image.

A camera device according to the present invention includes: a rigid assembly including an elongated handle portion and a docking frame, the elongated handle portion has a central axis oriented longitudinally; and a camera platform assembly including: first and second camera platform; first and second ultra-wide-angle cameras mounted respectively on said first and second camera platforms, each ultra-wide-angle camera comprising a respective ultra-wide-angle lens, and a pivot member engaging said first and second two camera platforms, and define a pivot axis; said pivot member is configured to enable each camera platform of the first and second camera platforms to move between the first platform structure and the second platform structure relative to the elongated handle (i) in said first platform structure, said first and second camera platforms are arranged back-to-back, and said first and second ultra-wide-angle cameras face in opposite directions; and (ii) In said second platform configuration, said first and second camera platforms are positioned side by side; wherein: said docking frame is bisected by a longitudinally oriented central axis of said elongated handle portion; and when said When the camera platforms are both in the first platform configuration, the respective centerlines of the two super wide-angle lenses are laterally offset in the direction of the pivot axis from the longitudinally oriented central axis of the elongated handle portion .

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, the docking frame is defined by the longitudinally oriented central axis of the elongated handle portion at a first dimension parallel to the central axis-pivot axis (CA-PA) plane Bisected, the CA-PA plane joins the pivot axis and the central axis of the elongated handle portion.

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, the docking frame is defined by the longitudinally oriented central axis of the elongated handle portion at a second dimension perpendicular to the central axis-pivot axis (CA-PA) plane Bisected, the CA-PA plane joins the pivot axis and the central axis of the elongated handle portion.

According to further features in the camera device of the present invention, each centerline is offset from a longitudinally oriented center axis by a thickness of a member of the docking frame.

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, each centerline is offset from the longitudinal center axis by at least 1 mm.

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, each centerline is offset from the longitudinal center axis by at least 2 millimeters.

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, the respective centerlines are offset from the longitudinally oriented central axis by at least 3 millimeters.

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, the portion occupied by at least one surface portion of each lens is at least 25% of the area of each of the first and second camera platforms.

According to a further feature of the camera apparatus of the present invention, the aspect ratio of the largest dimension of any one of the first and second camera platforms divided by their second largest dimension is not greater than 1.5.

According to a further feature of the camera device of the present invention, each centerline is laterally offset (912) from a longitudinally oriented central axis by an offset (912) equal to the inner width 913 of the docking frame at least 5% and at most 10%.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 shows (A) top view of the camera device according to the embodiment in the second platform structure,

(B) Bottom view, (C) Front view and (D) Back view.

Fig. 2 shows (A) front-left perspective view, (B) left side perspective view and (C) left-rear perspective view of the camera device shown in Fig. 1 in a second platform configuration, and (D) Left - detail of rear perspective view.

Fig. 3 shows (A) left perspective view, (B) rear view, (C) bottom view and (D) left- Rear perspective view, where (A1) details the offset of the camera centerline from the frame centerline.

FIG. 4 shows (A) top view, (B) rear view and (C) left side view of the camera device shown in FIGS. 1-3 in a second platform structure.

Fig. 5 shows (A) top view, (B) left view and (C) rear view and (D) left-rear perspective view of the camera device according to an alternative embodiment in a second platform configuration details.

FIG. 6 shows a rear view of the camera device shown in FIG. 5 in the first platform structure.

Fig. 7 shows a structural view of the first platform of the camera device shown in Figs. 5-6, the rear part of Fig. 6 together with the external device, and electronically communicates with the external device.

Fig. 8 shows a structural view of the first platform of the camera device shown in Figs. 5-6, and the rear part of Fig. 6 is mechanically connected with an external device.

Fig. 9 shows (A) the second platform structure view of the camera device; (B) the first platform structure view, with a schematic view of the angle of view of each ultra-wide-angle camera according to the embodiment.

Fig. 10 shows (A) the camera device and the external storage and display device according to the embodiment, and the connection between them; and (B) a kit containing the camera device and the stereo glasses according to the embodiment .

Detailed ways

The invention is described herein by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference to the details of the existing drawings, it should be emphasized that the details shown are exemplary only for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention and to provide what is believed to be the principles and concepts of the invention Aspects of the most useful and understandable descriptions are presented for reasons. At this point, do not attempt to show the structural details of the utility model, the utility model describes in more detail the details required for the basic understanding of the utility model, combined with the description of the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can understand the utility model How this is implemented in practice in several forms. Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals or symbols are generally used to refer to the same or similar elements.

Throughout this specification, subscripted reference numbers (eg, 10 ₁ ) or letter-modified reference numbers (eg, 100a) may be used to indicate multiple separate appearances of an element in a single drawing, eg, 10 ₁ is a single appearance ( from multiple appearances), and likewise, 100a is a single appearance of element 100 (from multiple appearances). Similarly, _200L and _200R will indicate the appearance of the left and right sides of element 200, respectively.

Embodiments of the present invention relate to an imaging device comprising first and second onboard super wide-angle cameras. The ultra-wide-angle camera may be a digital video camera, i.e. a camera having an imaging sensor such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) device, equipped with an ultra-wide-angle lens and/or means for processing an ultra-wide image, e.g. Converts an ultrawide image to a "normal" image with reduced distortion. An example of an ultra-wide-angle lens is a fisheye lens. As is known in the art, images obtained using fisheye lenses can be processed so that the images have reduced distortion through the use of software programs or firmware programs known as "de-warping" programs. The ultra wide-angle lens can be integrated into video cameras, factory installed or aftermarket.

In an embodiment, the dual-mode camera device can operate in either of two operating modes: when the platforms are manipulated in a back-to-back configuration, the camera device can operate in a panorama mode. The back-to-back configuration is also referred to as the "first platform structure" in the present invention, and these terms are used interchangeably. When the first and second onboard camera platforms carry respective ultra-wide-angle cameras, the camera platforms are manipulated in a side-by-side configuration, and the present camera device can work in a stereoscopic mode. Throughout this specification, the side-by-side configuration is also referred to as a "second platform structure", and these terms are used interchangeably.

The camera device may be equipped with a configuration sensor or a configuration detector that is operative to detect a configuration (i.e., the first platform structure or the second platform structure) and, upon detection, cause the camera device to Automatically switches to the appropriate working mode. Configuration sensors may include position detectors, as known in the art, for configurations such as Hall effect transducers, or reed switches, or limit switches, etc., for precise sensing of absolute or relative position. In some embodiments, operation of the camera platform may be assisted, for example, by releasing switches and springs when moving from one configuration to another. In some embodiments, the camera can automatically disable the shutter function when it is not in one of the two configurations described above, while in other embodiments the camera can automatically disable the shutter function based on which of the two configurations is closer to its instant The operating mode is selected based on the condition, or based on the last valid configuration.

When in stereo (or "stereo") mode, the images captured by the first and second ultra-wide-angle cameras (also referred to interchangeably as "cameras" in this All of the "cameras" are ultra-wide-angle cameras, where they each have an ultra-wide-angle lens) that can be combined and presented on a display screen in 3D stereoscopic mode (eg, as a live video stream). They may also (or alternatively) be captured and stored in an image format computer readable storage medium. One embodiment is a three-dimensional image, for example, when viewed using eg stereoscopic glasses or an autostereoscopic display.

When in panorama mode, the images captured by the first and second cameras are stitched together and presented (e.g., as a live video stream) to present what is being viewed by the camera arrangement (e.g., on opposite sides thereof) Panorama of the scene.

In embodiments, the camera may be configured to perform periodic, occasional or user-initiated calibration (or recalibration) to improve the results of creating complex (panoramic or stereoscopic) images. According to these embodiments, the camera devices may be calibrated in a side-by-side configuration, performed by an on-board stitching module as part of a stitching operation for creating a panoramic image from two acquired images, and may be performed in a back-to-back configuration Calibration, performed by the on-board stereo compositing module as part of the stereo compositing operation.

The dewarping module may be used to dewarp images captured by ultra-wide-angle cameras such as fisheye cameras, cameras with fisheye lenses, and the like. Algorithms and procedures for dewarping fisheye images are known in the art. The dewarping module may include any combination of hardware (e.g., one or more processors, non-transitory computer readable memory), firmware, and software (including program instructions for performing calibration) to perform the dewarping function any combination of . In some embodiments, the dewarping module is installed within the camera device. In other embodiments, a dewarping module is installed in an external device, which module communicates at least occasionally or periodically with said camera device.

The stitching module may include any hardware (e.g., one or more processors, non-transitory computer readable memory), firmware, and software (including program instructions for performing calibration) needed to perform the stitching function of images to create a panoramic image. combination. The stitched images are first dewarped by the dewarping module. In some embodiments, the stitching module is installed in the camera device. In other embodiments, a stitching module is installed in an external device, which module at least occasionally or periodically communicates with said camera device.

The stereoscopic image synthesis module, when provided, may include hardware (e.g., one or more processors, non-transitory computer readable memory), firmware, and software (including Any combination of program instructions to perform the calibration). The resulting combined image is first dewarped by the dewarping module. In some embodiments, the stereoscopic image synthesis module is installed in the camera device. In other embodiments, a stereoscopic image synthesis module is installed in an external device, which module communicates with said camera at least occasionally or periodically.

Any combination of dewarping modules, stitching modules and stereoscopic image synthesis modules can share hardware, firmware and/or software as desired.

Calibration can reduce stitching errors and/or improve image alignment in the process of stitching images to create panoramic images, such as 360° images. Calibration can increase stereo overlap and/or reduce parallax errors when compositing images to produce 3D stereoscopic images. A calibration target may be included on the camera device, which may include one or more operational target portions for calibration. For example, in a side-by-side (stereoscopic) configuration, a single calibration target placed on the elongated handle portion of the camera device, e.g. Simultaneous imaging. In another example, in a back-to-back (panoramic) configuration, each of the two cameras can see one or more operable different parts of the calibration target. A calibration target may be provided on the "distal" end of the elongated handle portion, also used in back-to-back configurations (where each camera sees a different working part or a different calibration target). Additionally or alternatively, the calibration target may be relatively close to the camera, for example on a sloped portion of the top of the elongated handle portion which presents the calibration target to the camera in a manner that occupies a larger proportion of the calibration target The angle of view of the camera, which puts the target at the "far" end of the handle - not because it's closer, but because the slope or shelf makes the target appear to the camera at a lesser "shallow" angle.

In order to be able to use the calibration target provided on the airborne camera device, the beneficial effect of the present invention is to provide an ultra-wide-angle camera with "below horizontal" imaging well capabilities, such as substantially greater than 180°, such as greater than 205° ° or greater.

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular FIGS. 1 and 2 , various projected and perspective views of a dual-mode camera 500 configured in a "side-by-side" configuration (second platform configuration) are shown in accordance with an embodiment. Throughout this specification, "side by side" means that the first and second cameras _520L and _520R are arranged substantially side by side, ie as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 2-A . When side by side, the respective optical axes _910L and _901R are parallel to each other and face in the same direction (ie, despite the offset distance between them).

The left-right conventions used and discussed in these figures are as follows: When the cameras are in a side-by-side configuration, as disclosed in the examples, and held by the user so that both The camera is away from him, as in the orientation shown in the example of Fig. 1-D, the left side of the camera is connected to the user's left and the right side of the camera is connected to the user's right. In this manner, the respective directions of the left camera _520L and the right camera _520R are orientations corresponding to the user's left and right eyes. As in other examples and figures, this convention is maintained for the individual elements regardless of their orientation.

As shown in Figures 1-C and 1-D, the two camera platforms are configured in a direction transverse to the handle 510 when in the second platform configuration, in the respective front and rear views. This gives the camera device 500 a general T-shape (or alternatively a cross-shape) when viewed from the front or from the rear. When viewed from the side, the T-shaped or cross-shaped bar deflects away from the staff.

In the preferred embodiment, in the second platform configuration, the first and second cameras _520L and _520R are arranged coplanar and vertically aligned with each other. This alignment is designed to give optimal results when acquiring pairs of images and subsequently synthesizing a stereoscopic image from them. Using the axes of FIG. 2-A, it can be seen that the two cameras _520L and _520R are substantially coplanar in the yz plane and have the same height in the y dimension; in other words, the two cameras are arranged to have substantially Same x and y coordinates, and only different z coordinates. "Substantially" means within a tolerance of ±5% of the diameter 908 of the lens 530 , or within a tolerance of ±10% of the diameter 908 , or within a tolerance of ±20%, or 25%, or 50% of the diameter 908 .

This configuration is advantageous in producing a true stereoscopic image from the image acquired in the second platform structure. In some embodiments, the distance between the two cameras 520L and _{520R (} center-to-center) is chosen to represent the typical distance between human eyes, referred to as the "pupillary distance", so that The image simulates human 3D vision. For example, an adult's pupillary distance typically ranges from 54-74mm. The value of the distance _{D CL as} shown in _{FIG . L} and 901 _R , as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B ) can be chosen to be within this range, or close to the middle of this range.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to have respective cameras _520L and _520R on the opposite side of the handle 510 and on the opposite side of the frame 570 for better ergonomics and "expansion" of the left and right visual experience to be incorporated by the camera devices. 500 of the acquired images.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1-D, the camera device 500 according to the embodiment includes a pivot shaft assembly 501 and an elongated handle portion 510. The handle portion 510 can be used to hold the camera device by hand. For this purpose, the handle portion 510 is preferably To be slender enough to be comfortably and securely grasped. For example, the longest dimension of the handle portion 510 is longer than the pivot assembly 501 in the same size. As another example, the length of the elongated handle portion 510 can be selected to be at least half, or two-thirds, or greater than 90% or greater than 100% of the width of a typical adult hand, the average width of a typical adult hand being Known to be about 8cm. As shown in Figure 1-C, the longest dimension of the handle portion 510 may define a longitudinal central axis 900, as shown in Figures 1-C and Figure 2-B, the central axis 900 is parallel to the longest dimension of the handle portion , and is the longitudinal centerline (that is, the centerline in the longest dimension) of the two dimensions that are not the longest dimension—as evidenced in Figure 1-C, which The central axis 900 is shown in a front view, while Fig. 2-B shows its position in a left view.

The handle portion 510 can be used to safely and securely erect the camera device on a flat surface, thereby rigidly supporting the pivot assembly 501 above the elongated handle portion 510, for which purpose the bottom 511 of the elongated handle portion 510 is preferably flat . Like the camera device, the base 511 may have attachment means 508 such as threaded holes for connecting the camera device 500 to an external support such as a tripod. The handle portion may include a number of user-facing features, such as user controls and port cavities. In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, user controls 506, lens release button 507, shutter button 509, port cavity 505 are shown. User controls 506 may include, for example, mode selection (e.g., still/video), wi-fi activation, initiation of manual camera calibration (with or without On-off control of the camera unit. User controls 506 may also include the use of status indicators such as LEDs. The port cavity 505 is preferably covered by a removable or pivotable cover and may include, for example, a charging port, a data transfer port (eg, USB) and/or a slot for a data storage card.

Pivot assembly 501 includes two camera mounted camera platforms _588L and _588R . Each camera-loaded camera platform 588 includes a camera platform 540 and an ultra-wide-angle camera 520 mounted therein or on it. (NOTE: In many places in the present invention, member structure and/or orientation are discussed, the image acquisition function of the camera is irrelevant, especially with regard to the following discussion about the pivoting device, the camera platform 588 on which the camera is mounted and camera platform 540 are interchangeably indicated.

Camera loaded camera platforms _588L and _588R are pivotally connected to each other. The two camera-loaded camera platforms _588L and _588R are adapted to pivot open or closed, thereby alternately placing the camera devices 500 in a side-by-side configuration respectively (via the arc 905R shown in FIG. 1- _A ). Arrow in the direction of pivoting open) or back-to-back configuration (by pivoting closed in the direction shown in the direction of the arrow on arc _905L in Figure 1-A). The pivoting of the camera-loaded camera platforms _588L and _588R may define a plane normal to the longitudinal central axis of the handle portion 510, and the extent of the arc _905L or _905R is preferably a quarter circle, i.e. 90°, or at In the range of 88° to 92°, or in the range of 85° to 95°, or in the range of 80° to 100°.

In these embodiments, the two camera platforms _540L and _540R are directly connected to each other. In other embodiments, as shown in the non-limiting embodiment of Figure 1-C (and Figure 1-D, which shows details of Figure 1- _C ), the two camera platforms 540L and _540R are each are pivotably connected to the pivot assembly frame 570, and are thereby indirectly and pivotally connected to each other. Each camera platform 540 may include a pivotal connection member 541 adapted to complete the pivotal arrangement with the frame 570 . The pivotal connection member 541 may be in the form of a flap as in the preceding figures, or may be more horizontally integrated with a corresponding parent camera platform 540, for example. The size and strength of the pivotal connection member 541 and the manner in which it is connected should be sufficient to maintain the alignment of the camera platform 540 . The actual structure of the pivot mechanism employed is irrelevant to the present invention. Embodiments include, but do not exclusively include: pivot mechanisms that include two pin extensions on each pivot connection member 541 and corresponding grooves in frame 570; pivot mechanisms that include two pin extensions on each pivot connection member 541; two slots on member 541 and corresponding pin extensions on frame 570; a pivot mechanism comprising separate pin members connecting each pivot member to the frame; or a pivot mechanism comprising hinge members, The hinge members connect each pivot member to the frame. Either individually or collectively, any of the aforementioned pivot mechanisms are not part of the camera platform 540 , here referred to as the pivot element 542 . Pivot element 542 may be part of frame 570, or may be a separate, separate component.

Pivot element 542 is generally a vertical element in the y-direction that may define pivot axis 910, eg, as shown in FIGS. 2-A and 2-d. Camera platform 540 pivots about pivot axis 910 . The pivot axis 910 is preferably parallel to the central axis 900 of the elongated handle portion 510 . As shown in FIG. 2-A , a central axis-pivot axis (CA-PA) plane 920 connects the two planes 900 and 910 , and the plane 920 bisects the camera device 500 along the x direction. Thus, in the second platform configuration (side-by-side configuration), two corresponding camera platforms _540L and _540R are arranged on opposite sides of the CA-PA plane 920 .

Additionally, it may be desirable to equip a pivot mechanism with a biasing element 543 (shown in FIG. 2-D ) so as to "bias" the position of the camera platform. By "bias," it is meant that a force or other design aspect causes the camera platform to move toward a particular platform structure. For example, biasing element 543 may comprise a torsion spring which may be used to impart a persistent force to camera platform 540 to cause camera platform 540 to move from a first platform configuration (back to back) to a second platform configuration (shoulder to shoulder).

The pivot assembly frame 570 can be used as a docking frame (in the orientation indicated in FIG. 1-A ) when the two camera platforms _540L and _540R are pivoted closed to place the camera device 500 on the first platform structure Medium (back to back). In some embodiments (not shown), there may be two parallel docking frames _570L and _570R , each provided for docking a camera platform _540L and _540R in a first platform configuration. A single corresponding one. The following discussion refers to a single docking frame 570, but can also be applied to the above-described embodiment employing two parallel docking frames _540L and _540R .

Referring specifically to FIG. 2B , docking frame 570 is arranged such that in the first platform configuration, camera platforms _540L and _540R are disposed within interior volume 571 . In this configuration, each camera platform _540L and _540R is surrounded by a docking frame 570 on at least three sides (as shown in FIG. 3 ).

It is useful to equip the docking frame 570 with an inner flange 574 facing inwardly towards an interior volume 571 that acts as a "stop" mechanism for the respective camera platforms _540L and _540R to secure their respective positions In back-to-back mode, that is, the inner flange 574 is an inner member that is attached to the inner facing surface 569 of the docking frame 570 . The inner member 574 prevents at least one of the first and second camera platforms 540 from pivoting through an arc 905 greater than a quarter of a circle. It can be used to equip the docking frame 570 with at least one docking element 573 that can be used to maintain the respective closed positions of the camera platforms 540 in a back-to-back configuration. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2D , the docking element 573 is a tab on the inwardly facing surface 569 that slides into a groove 544 on the bottom edge of each camera platform 540 (as shown in FIG. shown in 1B). In other embodiments (not shown), there may be docking tabs on the bottom edge of the camera platform and grooves on the frame. In some embodiments, docking member 573 may be at least partially retracted into frame 570 to facilitate quick release of camera platform 540 from the back-to-back configuration, for example, when a user presses lens release button 507 . There may be two docking elements _573L and _573R . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), docking member 573 may comprise an arm or lever connected to docking frame 570 or elongated handle portion 510 that, when rotated, may hold the respective imaging platforms _540L and 540R in place _. in place.

As further shown in FIG. 1 , each of the two camera platforms _540L and _540R may include respective microphones _521L and _521R for capturing audio content along with, for example, video images. The two microphones 521 _L and 521 _R are preferably located as far away from each other as possible to enhance the apparent spatial separation of the audio playback in at least two channels.

3 includes side rear and bottom protrusion and perspective views of a camera device 500 according to an embodiment, wherein the camera device 500 shown in the side-by-side configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is shown here as Back-to-back configuration (first platform configuration). As shown, pivot assembly 501 may be designed such that camera-loaded camera platforms _588L and _588R can be made to dock compactly within interior volume 571 (shown in FIG. 2-B ) of frame 570 such that Only a portion of each camera 520 "protrudes" from the frame 570 along with the microphone 521 .

Referring to FIG. 3-A , the pivot axis 910 deviates from the central axis 900 of the handle portion 510 toward one side of the frame in the x direction. Thus, when the camera platforms are in the second platform configuration, they are also offset from the central axis in the direction in which the cameras are facing. One of the benefits of this arrangement is that fewer handle portions 510 are captured by the two cameras 520 than would be the case without the forward bias. Due to this offset, it can be seen in FIG. 3-A that the centerline 911 _L of the camera 520 _L is offset from the center axis 900 . In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3-A1 , the offset 912 between the centerline _911L of the camera _520L and the central axis 900 is substantially equal to the distance between the pivot member 542 and the pivot axis. The thickness of the frame 570 on the side where 910 is located. In some embodiments, the offset 912 is at least 1 mm (eg, 1-5 mm), or at least 2 mm (eg, 2-5 mm), or at least 3 mm (eg, 3-5 mm). In some embodiments, the offset 912 is equal to a certain percentage of the inner width 913 of the frame 570 . For example, the offset 912 can be at least 3% (eg, 3%-12%) or at least 5% (eg, 5%-12% or 5%-10%) or at least 6% (eg, 6%) of the inner width 913 of the frame 570. %-9%) or at least 7% (eg 7%-8%). In various embodiments, the offset may be at most 15% or 12% or at most 10% or at most 8% of the inner width 913 of the frame 570 .

FIG. 3-B shows that in the first platform structure, the first and second super wide-angle cameras 520 may be aligned with each other in a horizontal direction orthogonal to the vertical y-direction. The horizontal direction is parallel to the CA-PA plane 920 (shown as "on the edge" in FIG. 3-B ).

As shown in FIG. 3-D , the frame 570 may include an electronic activation mode and status indicator 578 . For example, the mode and status indicator 578 may show whether the camera 500 is currently set to capture still images or video images, or has a time delay setting. In other embodiments, the mode and status indicator 578 may display other information, such as whether the camera is powered on, whether recording is currently in progress, whether camera calibration is required or recommended, whether a certain image or Whether processing of a pair of images is in progress, or whether communication is in progress.

1-B and FIG. 2-C, it can be seen that the upper portion of the elongated handle portion 510 on each of the two opposing surfaces of the elongated handle portion 510 is suitable for forming inclined portions 580 _L and 580 _R. Slanted portions _580L and _580R are near the end of elongated handle portion 510 which is the end near pivot assembly 501 . One non-limiting reason for providing the angled portion 580 is to reduce the extent to which the elongated handle portion blocks portions of the scene imaged by the first and second ultra wide angle cameras _520L and _520R .

Several views of the camera device 500 are shown in FIG. 4 in order to further emphasize certain aspects of its geometry, especially in the second platform configuration. Figures 4-A and 4-B show the "on-edge" frame plane 903 viewed as a straight line from two different orthogonal angles, thereby establishing the two dimensions of the plane. Similarly, FIGS. 4-A and 4-C show the "on-edge" camera platform plane 904 viewed as a line from two different orthogonal angles, thereby establishing the two dimensions of the plane. Frame plane 903 is coplanar with central axis 900 (not shown in FIG. 4 ) and bisects frame 570 in the direction shown. The camera platform plane 904 is intersected by two parallel cross-sections of the camera platforms _540L and _540R , which is preferably orthogonal to the frame plane 903 .

Referring now to Figures 5, 6, 7 and 8, there is shown an alternative embodiment of a camera device 500 in which the elongated handle portion 510 as described in the previous embodiments is not provided. Camera apparatus 500 is shown in a second platform configuration (camera platforms _540L and _540R arranged side by side) in FIG. 5, and in a first platform configuration (camera platforms _540L and 540R) in FIGS. 540 _R back-to-back configuration). In other respects, the camera device 500 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 may be the same as the camera device 500 shown in FIGS. The devices are otherwise identical.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , a camera 500 without an elongated handle portion 510 (eg, the one shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 ) can be electrically connected to an external device 700 such as a smartphone such that Smartphone 700 including touch screen 701 can replace mode and status indicators 578, as well as user controls 506, lens release button 507, shutter button 509, by displaying mode and status indications, and by providing user controls. The smart phone can also be used to receive user input and instructions, and to send control instructions to the camera device 500. As shown in FIG. or wireless communication or a combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 8 , the camera 500 and the smartphone 700 may be mechanically (rigidly) and electrically connected by an attachment means 549 so that the smartphone also has a mechanical function of rigidly supporting the camera 500 . In some embodiments, an elongated handle portion 510 is provided, which may include a cellular telephone 700 . Both the communication connection 476 and the attachment device 549 can be selected so that they are compatible with the power and communication connection features of the smartphone 700, such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) or other such attachment features used in the industry . It should be noted that the orientation of camera 500 relative to cellular phone 700 in FIG. 8 is a non-limiting example for illustrative purposes, and that in other embodiments of the invention camera 500 may Rotate 90° clockwise or counterclockwise.

FIG. 9 schematically shows various angle views of the super wide-angle camera 520 . Viewing angles greater than 200° are advantageous, for example, for panorama stitched together images with the design shown, especially where relatively thick cameras are arranged back-to-back in the first platform structure.

FIG. 10A shows an exemplary embodiment in which an external display screen 480 is provided for viewing still or video images “live” and/or for viewing still or video images that have been captured, such as those stored in the external storage medium 470. image. The external display screen 480 and external storage medium 470 may be incorporated into the camera 500, for example, into ports in the port cavity 505 or in the bottom 511 of the handle, using respective high-speed devices that may be wired or wireless, depending on the particular design. Transport means 485 and 475 .

FIG. 10B shows another exemplary embodiment in which 3D or stereoscopic glasses are provided for use with the camera 500 . Because external devices such as display screen 480 are commonly available in homes and offices, it is advantageous to combine camera 500 with 3D glasses in order to view images captured by the camera without requiring access to Extra equipment commonly found in offices.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, camera apparatus 500 may further include a configuration detector for detecting whether said first and second camera platforms are in said first platform configuration or said second platform configuration .

In any embodiment disclosed herein, the camera device 500 may further include a dewarping module, which is used to dewarp the images captured by the first and second ultra-wide-angle cameras.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, camera apparatus 500 may also include a stitching module for creating a 360° panorama of the scene jointly viewed by said first and second cameras 520 when in said first platform structure image.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the camera device 500 may further include a communication device for transmitting the following images to an external device: (i) an image acquired in the first platform structure, stitched from a pair of dewarped images The resulting 360° panorama image; (ii) an image acquired in the second platform structure, a pair of dewarped images or a stereo composite image thereof.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the camera apparatus 500 may further include a biasing element 543 for transmitting a persistent force to push the first and second camera platforms 540 so as to pivot from the first platform structure to the second camera platform 540. Describe the second platform structure. The biasing element may comprise a torsion spring.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, each respective ultra-wide camera 520 may have a viewing angle of at least 200°. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, each respective ultra-wide camera 520 may have a viewing angle of at least 205°. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, each respective ultra-wide camera 520 may have a viewing angle of at least 210°.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, at least one surface portion of each respective lens 530 may occupy a portion of the area of each of the first and second camera platforms 540, and at least one surface portion of each respective lens 530 The portion occupied by the portion may be at least 20% of the area of each of the first and second camera platforms 5401 in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, and the portion occupied by at least one surface portion of each respective lens 530 may be is at least 25% of the area of each of the first and second camera platforms 5401 in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, and at least one surface portion of each respective lens 530 may occupy a portion of the first and second camera platforms 5401. At least 30% of the area of each of the two-camera platforms 540 .

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, it may be that the aspect ratio of the largest dimension of either of the first and second camera platforms 540 divided by its second largest dimension is no greater than 2.0. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, it may be that the aspect ratio of the largest dimension of either of the first and second camera platforms 540 divided by its second largest dimension is no greater than 1.5. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, it may be that the aspect ratio of the largest dimension of either of the first and second camera platforms 540 divided by its second largest dimension is no greater than 1.25. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, it may be that the aspect ratio of the largest dimension of either of the first and second camera platforms 540 divided by its second largest dimension is no greater than 1.1.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, each of the first and second camera platforms 540 can include a pivotal connection member 541, and each respective ultra-wide-angle lens 530 can be centered on a portion of the camera platform 540, while Not on the part of the pivotal connection member 541 .

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, an elongated handle portion 510 is disclosed which may include a substantially flat bottom 511 such that when the camera device 500 is oriented perpendicular to the camera platform assembly 501 over the elongated handle portion 510 , the camera device 500 can stand unattended on a flat surface.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, an elongated handle portion 510 is disclosed, which may comprise a cellular telephone.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, camera 500 may be part of a kit 461 that also includes 3D glasses 460 . The kit 461 may comprise a camera device 500 and a pair of 3D glasses 460 as claimed in any preceding claim.

The present invention has been described using the detailed description of the embodiments provided by way of example and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The described embodiments include various features, not all of which are required in all embodiments of the invention. Some embodiments of the invention utilize only some of the features or possible combinations of features. Variations on the described embodiments of the invention and embodiments of the invention comprising different combinations of features mentioned in the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

In the description and claims of the present invention, each verb, "comprises", "comprises" and "has" and their combinations, is used to indicate that the object or the object of the verb is not necessarily a member, part , a complete list of the subject or part of a subject of an element or verb. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "an" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a marker" or "at least one marker" may include a plurality of markers.

In the description and claims of the present utility model, the following terms are used interchangeably with each other and have the same meaning when used together with the same reference numerals in the drawings: (a) "camera 520" and " (b) "lens 530" and "super wide-angle lens 530"; (c) "handle 510" and "handle part 510" and "slender handle part 510"; (d) "frame 570" and "Pivot Assembly Frame 570" and "Docking Frame 570" and "Frame Part 570"; (e) "Pivot Member 541" and "Pivot Connection 541"; and (f) "Camera Platform Assembly 501" and " Pivot Assembly 501".

Claims (10)

1. A camera (500), characterized in that it comprises: a rigid assembly comprising an elongated handle portion (510) having a longitudinally oriented central axis (900) and a docking frame (570); and Camera platform assembly (501), including: first and second camera platforms (540); First and second ultra-wide-angle cameras (520), respectively installed on the first and second camera platform (540), each ultra-wide-angle camera (520) includes a respective ultra-wide-angle lens (530), and a pivot member (542) that engages the first and second camera platforms (540) and defines a pivot axis (910); the pivot member (542) is configured such that the first and second camera platforms Each camera platform of (540) pivots relative to said elongated handle portion (510) between a first platform structure and a second platform structure in which said first and second the camera platforms are arranged back-to-back with the first and second ultra-wide-angle cameras (520) facing opposite directions; and in the second platform configuration, the first and second camera platforms (540) are arranged shoulder to shoulder; in: said docking frame (570) is bisected by a longitudinally oriented central axis (900) of said elongate handle portion (510); and When the camera platforms are both in the first platform configuration, the respective centerlines (911) of the two super wide-angle lenses (530) are in the direction of the pivot axis (910) from the elongated handle The longitudinally oriented central axis (900) of the portion (510) is laterally offset. 2. The imaging device (500) according to claim 1, characterized in that: the docking frame (570) is parallel to the central axis (900) of the longitudinal orientation of the elongated handle part (510). Bisected at a first dimension of an axis-pivot axis (CA-PA) plane (920) joining the pivot axis (910) and the central axis (900) of the elongated handle portion (510) ). 3. The imaging device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: the docking frame (570) is vertically aligned with the central axis (900) of the longitudinal orientation of the elongated handle portion (510). bisected at a second dimension of a central axis-pivot axis (CA-PA) plane (920) joining the pivot axis (910) and the central axis of the elongated handle portion (510) (900). 4. The imaging device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: each centerline (911) is the thickness of a member offset from the longitudinally oriented central axis (900) of the docking frame (570) . 5. The camera device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each centerline (911) deviates from the longitudinal center axis (900) by at least 1 mm. 6. The camera device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each centerline (911) deviates from the longitudinal center axis (900) by at least 2 millimeters. 7. The camera device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the respective center line (911) deviates from the longitudinally oriented center axis (900) by at least 3 mm. 8. The camera device (500) according to claim 1, characterized in that: the portion occupied by at least one surface portion of each lens (530) is each of the first and second camera platforms (540) At least 25% of the area of the camera platform. 9. The camera device (500) according to claim 1, characterized in that: the aspect ratio of the maximum dimension of any one of the first and second camera platforms (540) divided by their second maximum dimension is not greater than 1.5. 10. The imaging device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each centerline (911) is offset laterally by a certain amount (912) from a longitudinally oriented central axis (900), said The offset (912) is equal to at least 5% and at most 10% of the inner width 913 of said docking frame (570).