JP2012235450A - Mobile communication device comprising curved-surface sensor camera, curved-surface sensor camera comprising mobile optical part, and curved-surface sensor made of silicon fiber - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method and a device for a mobile communication device comprising a camera using a curved-surface sensor.SOLUTION: A method and a device combining a mobile communication device and a camera incorporating a curved-surface sensor 12 provide a photograph of a higher image quality than that provided by a conventional cellphone camera comprising a plane sensor. Furthermore, a high quality photograph can be obtained without a large and expensive lens as well. An increased light acquisition volume can reduce or eliminate the necessity of flash illumination for enhancing peripheral illumination and prolongs a battery use time. By combining the camera using the curved-surface sensor and the mobile communication device, the necessity of a portable camera dedicated to photographing is eliminated.

Description

  One embodiment of the present invention relates to a communication device combined with a camera including a curved sensor. With this device, it is possible to obtain a picture with higher image quality than that which can be obtained with a conventional mobile phone (cellphone) camera, and it is not necessary to carry a separate pocket camera. Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a camera combination including a planar or curved sensor and an element that intentionally moves an optical train to produce an image. Yet another embodiment of the present invention relates to a concave curved sensor made of silicon fiber.

<I. Brief Camera History>
[Evolution of three basic camera types]
The camera that evolved from the first “box” and “jabara” evolved into the three basic forms in the late 20th century. A rangefinder camera first appeared, followed by a single-lens reflex camera, that is, an SLR (single lens reflex) camera, and finally a compact P & S (point and shot) camera. Recently, most portable cameras have adopted these distance meter interlocking type, SLR type and P & S type.

[Simple conventional camera]
FIG. 1 shows a simplified conventional camera including a housing, objective lens, photographic film or flat sensor.

  However, flat films or sensors and simple lenses face several problems. The path of light reaching the edge of the image area of the film or sensor becomes longer, and the amount of light in that part becomes cloudy. Since the light beam reaches the end of the sensor through a long path, the amount of light in this portion is weakened, and the “rainbow effect”, that is, chromatic aberration is further intensified.

  FIG. 2 shows a simplified human eye having a curved image forming surface. The human eye, for example, only needs the cornea and one lens to form an image. However, on average, one human retina contains 25 million rod cells and 6 million cone cells. Recent high-end cameras use a lens composed of 6 to 20 parts. Only very rare and very expensive cameras have the same number of pixels as the rods and cones of the human eye, and there is no camera that can take pictures after sunset without artificial lighting.

  Eagle's retina contains eight times the number of sensory cells in the human eye. Eagle's sensory cells are arranged on a ball-sized sphere. In Eagle's eyes, round sensory cells simplify the optics. There is no camera having the number of pixels corresponding to 1/4 of the number of sensory cells in the eagle's eye among currently existing commercial cameras. Eagle's eyes consist of a simple lens and a curved retina. Conventional high-end cameras use elaborate coatings, special materials, and complex configurations of multiple lenses, all of which are intended to compensate for planar sensors. Eagle is simpler than any camera, uses light and small optics, and can clearly see things in the daytime, in the daylight or at dusk.

[Rangefinder camera]
Rangefinder-linked cameras are widely distributed, ranging from early professional 35 mm LEICA ^™ cameras to later-introduced INSTAMATIC ^™ film cameras. (Most of the KODAK ^TM INSTAMATIC ^TM cameras were not actually rangefinder-linked cameras because they lacked a focus function. However, a few of the "INSTAMATIC type" models have a focus function. " It has a separate “viewing” lens that is separated from the “taking lens” for photographing, and is classified as interlocking with a distance meter. Has a "shooting" lens that forms an image on the film (or more recently a sensor) when opened and closed, and uses a second lens (viewing lens) that allows the user to view the subject The camera is focused through this viewing lens that forms an image in conjunction with the shooting lens. Can be used.

  Since the photographing lens and the viewing lens are different, and the perspective of the subject is different, the image photographed with the photographing lens is slightly different from the image viewed with the regular viewing lens. This problem, called time difference (visual difference), is minor in most situations, but becomes an important issue at close distances.

  A long telephoto lens for enlarging a subject is not practical in the distance meter interlocking type. This is because two lenses are required, the lenses are expensive, and the installation space must be larger than those located in the camera body. For this reason, a long telephoto lens does not exist in a distance meter interlocking camera.

  Some rangefinder-linked cameras display a frame in the viewfinder, but when adjusting the focus, the boundary of this frame is made to coincide with the boundary of the photographing lens. This is to match the scene viewed by the user with the actually captured image (however, only the part in focus matches). Since the background and foreground that are out of focus move, there is still a slight difference between the portion of the captured image and the portion viewed with the viewfinder.

Some rangefinder-linked cameras may use interchangeable or removable lenses, but the problem of visual differences remains a problem that cannot be solved and is slightly wider or longer No camera manufacturer has yet succeeded in marketing a rangefinder-linked camera that significantly exceeds the accessory level. When adding a rangefinder interlocking lens, a similar viewfinder lens must always be accompanied. Or, the scene viewed by the user and the photograph taken do not match at all. This doubles the lens cost. A twin-lens reflex camera is a derivative of a rangefinder-linked camera that has the same limitations on accessory lenses, but a camera manufactured by ROLLEI-WERKE ^™ can be taken as an example.

[Compact or P & S ("point and shot") camera]
Currently, the most popular format for general users is the “P & S” camera. This camera first appeared as a film camera, but recently it is almost all digital cameras. Most of these cameras have an optical zoom lens permanently attached and the optical system cannot be replaced. Zoom lenses typically have a 4 × magnification that is possible from a small wide angle to a low magnification telephoto function. In order to guarantee the image quality and speed during the zoom function, a magnification larger than this magnification is not applied. Some manufacturers apply the zoom function of 4 × magnification or more, but the image quality and speed of the obtained video are deteriorated.

  Other cameras add digital zoom to increase optical magnification, but most editors and photographers dislike photos taken with digital zoom. The reason is explained in the next paragraph. There is no P & S camera that uses a wide-angle lens as wide as the foreground that corresponds to an 18 mm SLR lens (assumed as a lens for use in an existing standard 35 mm film SLR camera for relative comparison). No P & S camera uses a telephoto lens that is as long as a 200 mm SLR lens (also assumed to be a lens used in a standard 35 mm film camera). Recently, there are more cases of taking pictures every day using a mobile phone or PDA than a normal camera. These mobile phones and PDAs are also included in the P & S camera in this specification.

[Single-lens reflex (SLR) camera]
Single lens reflex cameras are most commonly used by high-end amateurs and professionals recently because of the wide choice of accessory lenses. In a 35 mm film SLR camera, accessory lenses range from 18 mm fisheye lenses to 1,000 mm ultra high magnification telephoto lenses, and in addition, there are optical zoom lenses that can use various magnifications between them.

  In SLR, a mirror that reflects the image entering the viewfinder is behind the photographing lens. When the shutter is pressed, the mirror moves up and out of the optical path, and the image is directly formed on the film or sensor. With such a method, the scene viewed on the viewfinder becomes almost accurate from extreme wide-angle shooting to telephoto shooting. The only exception to this “accurate” video shooting is the rapid shooting action, which is actually taken from the scene the writer saw earlier in the viewfinder due to the time delay caused by the mirror movement. There is a slight difference in the video.

  Despite some inherent disadvantages, SLR became a popular camera in the second half of the 20th century in terms of its versatility in lens utilization. The disadvantages of SLR are that it has more moving parts and more complex mechanisms than other types of cameras, and can exemplify noise, vibration and time delay due to mirror movement. Also, since the lens far in front of the optical path of the moving mirror must be located farther from the film or sensor, there are restrictions on the lens design, which makes the lens heavier and larger. In addition, dust, moisture, and other foreign matters enter the camera body and the rear part of the lens when the lens is replaced.

  Unlike the film, the sensor is fixed, so the digital SLR appears and the dust inflow becomes a big problem. As the film is rolled up, dust particles can be rolled up together, affecting only one photo frame, but in the case of a digital camera, all photos can be dusted unless the sensor is cleaned. It becomes like this. In recent designs, the sensor is intermittently vibrated to clean the sensor. However, this also does not remove the dust attached to the camera and does not remove oil particles. More recent designs have recognized the seriousness of this problem and have installed an adhesive band inside the camera so that the dust that falls from the sensor due to vibrations sticks to it. However, since this adhesive band must be replaced periodically, the camera user needs a service technician to perform this operation.

  The problem persists because the inherent function of the SLR is to use interchangeable lenses. Mirror-related mechanisms and viewfinder optics increase weight and increase size. In SLR, an accurate lens and a mechanism for attaching the lens to the body are necessary. Therefore, mechanical and electrical connection must be made between the SLR lens and the SLR body. This further increases weight, complexity and cost. In some of the “vibration” designs, if the sensor vibrates while in a vertical position, ie the camera is pointing towards the sky or towards the ground, all when there is no adhesive band to take up dust It is assumed that the photo is taken in a horizontal form.

[Optical zoom lens]
Optical zoom lenses reduce the need to replace SLR lenses. Photographers simply use the zoom-in / zoom-out feature during most filming. However, some situations still require a wider and longer accessory lens for the SLR, and the user has to change the lens anyway.

  Recently, many P & S cameras are basically permanently equipped with a zoom lens, and almost all SLRs provide a zoom lens as an accessory. Even if optical technology continues to develop, there is a technical limit to the range of zoom that any lens must be able to work properly. Another dilemma for zoom lenses is that the zoom lens is heavier than the standard lens and is “slow” (this means that the amount of light that passes through is limited and its usefulness is limited), resulting in clear images. In other words, the color fidelity is inferior to that of a fixed focal length lens.

  Optical zoom also requires more movement of the lens components, which increases the number of moving parts, introduces time and usage mechanical problems, and adds cost. Since the optical zoom is mechanically expanded and contracted, it acts like an air pump. When the distance is expanded (zoom-in), external air is sucked in, and when zoomed out, the air is compressed. This allows moisture (sometimes dust) to easily flow into the interior.

<II. Limitations of existing mobile phone cameras>
The Gartner group reported that over 1 billion mobile phones were sold worldwide in 2009. Many mobile phones currently available are equipped with cameras. Such a camera is generally a low-quality photographic apparatus that is installed on a plane with a simple structure behind a normal lens. The image quality of a photograph taken with such a mobile phone camera is generally lower than that of a photograph taken with a P & S grade or better photo camera. In general, mobile phone cameras lack a high-level control device for shutter speed, telephoto function, or other functions.

[Four drawbacks of existing mobile phones and PDA cameras]
1. Since a flat digital sensor is used, there is an optical defect and a low-quality photograph is obtained. In order to obtain a normal resolution, a larger lens is required, but in this case, such a small device is difficult to handle.

  2. Another drawback is that the lens is “slow” and cannot collect much light. Most of the pictures taken with such devices are taken after sunset or indoors. For this reason, flash illumination is required.

  In small devices, a lens is installed near the flash illumination, and the “red-eye” phenomenon often occurs. In dark places, the pupil of the eyes is wide open for better viewing. At this time, the flash light is reflected by the retina of the eye and the pupil can be photographed in red. In order to eliminate red eyes, some camera manufacturers make cameras so that the pupil is closed by momentarily cooking another flash before taking a picture using the flash. However, this function works from time to time and always prevents natural poses.

  There is also a pencil function that allows the user to eliminate red eyes. There is a red-eye removal pencil for humans, and there is also a red-eye removal pencil for pets. Some camera software developers have created algorithms that detect red eyes and artificially remove red eyes. This makes it possible to match the actual eyeball color of the subject, but this is not always the case.

  3. Taking pictures using flash lighting reduces battery usage time.

  4). Photography with flash lighting is artificial. That is, the background becomes dark and the foreground face can be photographed white. The chin line is noticeable, and sometimes I have taken it to the extent that I can look into a person's nostril. The sale of high-definition (HD) TVs is currently increasing the demand for clear video from the masses.

  In the past, many photos were taken using INSTATATIC cameras, but the public soon became disgusted with such low-quality photos. Professionals and serious enthusiasts began to use 35mm cameras, which soon became a popular market product. At present, many pictures are taken with a mobile phone before and after, but because the quality of the pictures is second-class, there is a high possibility that such a cycle will be repeated. The development of a device to reduce such problems has achieved major technical progress and meets what has been required for a long time in the field of video acquisition.

  The present invention provides a method and apparatus for a mobile communication device that includes a camera that uses a curved sensor. In accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention, mobile communication devices can include portable or wireless telephones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops or laptops, or other portable information devices.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, sensors and / or optical elements are intentionally moved while performing multiple exposures to improve image sharpness.

  The present invention also provides a method and apparatus for manufacturing a curved sensor with fibers such as silicon. According to another embodiment of the invention, pixels of different sizes are formed on the sensor. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, pixels arranged to surround in a ring form are positioned slightly above the other two adjacent pixels.

The following effects can be obtained by combining the mobile communication device and the curved surface sensor.
1. Get higher quality photos than existing mobile phones with flat sensors. Such a high-quality photograph can be obtained without using a large and expensive lens.
2. Great light collection performance can be obtained that can reduce or eliminate the need for flash to brighten the ambient lighting.
3. Battery life will be longer. This is because it reduces or eliminates the need for flash.

  In addition, by combining a camera using a curved surface sensor and a mobile communication device, a portable camera dedicated to photography is not required. It's like many people don't wear wrist watches because they have built in watches recently. The present invention, which initially combines a high performance camera and a mobile communication device, reduces or eliminates the need to carry a separate camera.

  By studying the description of the following examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, an evaluation of other goals and objectives of the present invention and a more complete and comprehensive understanding of the present invention will become possible.

1 illustrates a conventional camera that utilizes a planar film or a planar sensor. It simply draws a human eyeball. 1 is a schematic overall configuration diagram of a digital camera having a curved sensor manufactured according to an embodiment of the present invention. Various forms of sensors that are substantially curved are shown. Various forms of sensors that are substantially curved are shown. Various forms of sensors that are substantially curved are shown. Fig. 4 shows a sensor fabricated with nine planar segments or facets. 2 shows a cross section of an object that is composed of a plurality of facets and forms a substantially curved surface. It is a perspective view of the curved surface shown in FIG. One method of electrically coupling the sensors shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 is provided. FIG. 8 is another detailed view of the sensor shown in FIG. 7, showing the configuration before and after expanding the gap on the substrate to bend a flat surface. FIG. 8 is another detailed view of the sensor shown in FIG. 7, showing the configuration before and after expanding the gap on the substrate to bend a flat surface. The sensor connection method is shown. The sensor connection method is shown. A series of petal-shaped segments made of ultrathin silicon for forming a substantially dome-shaped surface like an umbrella shape by bending or the like is shown. A series of petal-shaped segments made of ultrathin silicon for forming a substantially dome-shaped surface like an umbrella shape by bending or the like is shown. The arrangement of sensor segments is shown in detail. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a curved surface formed by joining the segments shown in FIG. 12. Another method for forming a generally domed surface using a thin semiconductor material layer using a mandrel will be described. Another method for forming a generally domed surface using a thin semiconductor material layer using a mandrel will be described. Another method for forming a generally domed surface using a thin semiconductor material layer using a mandrel will be described. A method for forming a substantially dome-shaped surface using a core mold will be described. A method for forming a substantially dome-shaped surface using a core mold will be described. A method for forming a substantially dome-shaped surface using a core mold will be described. A form in which sensors are arranged on a dome-shaped surface is shown. Indicates a camera taking a wide-angle photo. Indicates a camera that is actually taking a magnification photograph. Indicates a camera taking a telephoto. It is a figure for demonstrating the characteristic that pixel density changes by comparing the image | video of the existing sensor with one Example with which the pixel is further concentrated in the center relatively. It is a figure for demonstrating the characteristic that pixel density changes by comparing the image | video of the existing sensor with one Example with which the pixel is further concentrated in the center relatively. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a camera having a retractable / extendable lens shade. When the camera performs wide-angle shooting, the lens shade contracts, and when the camera performs telephoto shooting, the lens shade expands. In actual magnification shooting, the lens shade partially extends. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a camera having a retractable / extendable lens shade. When the camera performs wide-angle shooting, the lens shade contracts, and when the camera performs telephoto shooting, the lens shade expands. In actual magnification shooting, the lens shade partially extends. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a camera having a retractable / extendable lens shade. When the camera performs wide-angle shooting, the lens shade contracts, and when the camera performs telephoto shooting, the lens shade expands. In actual magnification shooting, the lens shade partially extends. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a camera having a retractable / extendable lens shade. When the camera performs wide-angle shooting, the lens shade contracts, and when the camera performs telephoto shooting, the lens shade expands. In actual magnification shooting, the lens shade partially extends. Two forms of composite sensor are shown. In the first diagram, the sensor is aligned to its original position and captures the first video. In the second diagram, the sensor rotates and captures the second video. These two consecutive images are combined to produce a complete final image. Two forms of composite sensor are shown. In the first diagram, the sensor is aligned to its original position and captures the first video. In the second diagram, the sensor rotates and captures the second video. These two consecutive images are combined to produce a complete final image. 22 shows another embodiment of FIGS. 22 and 23, and shows that the sensor moves to a diagonal position during exposure. FIG. 22 shows another embodiment of FIGS. 22 and 23, and shows that the sensor moves to a diagonal position during exposure. FIG. 4 shows four types of sensors including variously arranged sensor facets and gaps between them. 4 shows four types of sensors including variously arranged sensor facets and gaps between them. 4 shows four types of sensors including variously arranged sensor facets and gaps between them. 4 shows four types of sensors including variously arranged sensor facets and gaps between them. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing various connection methods used for outputting an electric signal, and showing a back surface of a moving sensor. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing various connection methods used for outputting an electric signal, and showing a back surface of a moving sensor. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing various connection methods used for outputting an electric signal, and showing a back surface of a moving sensor. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the radio | wireless connection between a sensor and a processor. It is a sectional side view of the camera apparatus by other Examples of this invention. It is a front view of the sensor of the camera apparatus of FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a camera apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Various forms of electronic devices incorporating a curved sensor are shown. Various forms of electronic devices incorporating a curved sensor are shown. Various forms of electronic devices incorporating a curved sensor are shown. Various forms of electronic devices incorporating a curved sensor are shown. Various forms of electronic devices incorporating a curved sensor are shown. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. Demonstrates how to capture images that are sharper than what the sensor can capture. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the optical element moving along a complete circular path over a fixed planar sensor. It is the figure which looked at the optical element and sensor which were shown by FIG. 51 from the top. FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a movable optical element located on a fixed curved sensor. It is the figure which looked at the optical element and sensor shown by FIG. 53 from the right. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a method for rotating a planar sensor under a fixed optical element. It is the figure which looked at the optical element and sensor which were shown by FIG. 55 from the top. FIG. 57 is a schematic diagram showing a method for causing the rotational movement of the sensor as shown in FIGS. 55 and 56. FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the components shown in FIG. 57. FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a method for causing a rotational movement of a curved sensor moving under a fixed optical element. FIG. 60 is a top view of the optical element and sensor shown in FIG. 59. FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a method for circularly moving an optical element. 9 shows nine types of planar sensors moving along a single circular path. It is a simplified diagram of a planar sensor in which pixels are arranged. In FIG. 63, the sensor is in its original position. It is a simplified diagram of a planar sensor in which pixels are arranged. In FIG. 64, the sensor continues to rotate along a circular path. It is a simplified diagram of a planar sensor in which pixels are arranged. In FIG. 65, the sensor continues to rotate along a circular path. A single strand of silicon fiber is shown. A mesh woven with silicon fibers is shown. It is a figure for demonstrating the method of forming a dome shape with a textile fabric using a heated pair of core type | mold (mandrel). It is a figure for demonstrating the method of forming a dome shape with a textile fabric using a heated pair of core type | mold (mandrel). A method for forming a fusion thin film including a hemispherical surface by heating parallel fibers is shown. A method for forming a fusion thin film including a hemispherical surface by heating parallel fibers is shown. A method of forming a fusion thin film by heating two sets of fibers arranged at right angles will be described. A curved surface sensor composed of mini-sensors of different sizes is shown. The rotation state of the sensor shown in FIG. 73 is shown. The pixel parts arranged alternately are shown.

<I. Summary of Invention>
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for a camera having a non-planar, bent or curved sensor. The present invention can be combined with a mobile communication device. In this specification and claims, the terms “mobile communication device” and “mobile communication means” are used to communicate (including transmit and / or receive) information, data, content or other forms of signals and information. It is intended to include possible device or hardware and / or software combinations.

Specific examples of mobile communication devices include cellular or wireless telephones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops or laptops, ipad ^TM or other reader / computers, or communications or video content Mention may be made of other general portable devices that can be used for viewing and recording. Unlike existing cellular telephones equipped with a camera that includes a conventional flat sensor, the present invention includes a curved surface type, otherwise a non-planar type sensor. According to one embodiment, the non-planar surface of the sensor used in the present invention is composed of a plurality of small flat segments that together form a generally curved surface. In contrast to conventional sensors that are approximately two-dimensional planes, the sensors used in the present invention occupy approximately three-dimensional space.

  The present invention can utilize sensors having various three-dimensional shapes (including but not limited to spherical surfaces, paraboloids, and ellipsoids). In this specification, the terms “curve” and “curved surface” are concepts covering all lines, edges, boundaries, segments, surfaces or features that are not exactly collinear with a straight line. The term “sensor” refers to a detector, imager, measuring instrument, transducer, focal plane array, charge-coupled device (CCD), complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) that reacts to incident photons of any wavelength. Or a concept encompassing photovoltaic cells.

  Some embodiments of the present invention are configured to record images on the optical spectrum, and other embodiments of the present invention provide various operations for collecting, sensing and recording other forms of light radiation. Can be used for. Embodiments of the present invention include devices that collect / collect and record hue, black and white, infrared, ultraviolet, X-ray, or other types of radiation, emissions, waves, and particle flows. Embodiments of the present invention also include an apparatus for recording stop video and moving images.

<II. Specific Example of the Present Invention>
FIG. 3 is an overall schematic diagram of a digital camera including a curved sensor 12 that can be coupled to a mobile communication device. An optical element 16 is disposed on one side of the housing 14. The objective lens 16 receives incident light 18. According to this embodiment, the optical element is an objective lens. In general, the sensor 12 converts the energy of an incident photon 18 into an electrical signal 20 and then outputs it to a signal processor or photon processor 22. The signal processor 22 is connected to a user operating device 24, a battery or power supply device 26, and a semiconductor memory 28. The video generated by the signal processor 22 is stored in the memory 28. The video can be output or downloaded from the camera via an output terminal 30 such as a USB port.

  Examples of the present invention include, but are not limited to, mobile communication devices equipped with cameras incorporating the following sensors.

  1. Curved sensor: A sensor having a substantially continuous part of a sphere, a rotational shape of a conical part such as a paraboloid or an ellipsoid, or other non-planar shape. Examples of the sensor 12 having a substantially curved surface are shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C. In the present specification, various embodiments of the curved surface sensor are designated by reference numerals 12, 12a, 12b, 12c and the like.

  2. Sensor consisting of facets: a collection of polygonal facets (or segments). Any suitable polygon can be used, i.e., square, square, triangle, trapezoid, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, and the like. FIG. 5 shows a sensor 12a composed of nine planar polygon segments, or facets 32a. For some applications, a simple assembly of a plurality of flat sensors is significantly cheaper, but can lose the gain of a smooth curved sensor. 6 and 7 are a side view and a perspective view of the sensor surface 12b in which a plurality of facets 32b are assembled to form a substantially spherical shape. In FIG. 7, the gap 34 between the facets is exaggerated. Each facet can have hundreds, thousands, or millions of pixels. In this specification, the facets of the sensor 12 are designated by reference numerals 32, 32a, 32b, 32c, and the like.

FIG. 8 shows the electrical connecting portion 36 connected to the curved surface sensor 12b shown in FIG. A semiconductor surface is arranged on the inner surface. The external surface can be MYLAR ^™ , KAPTON ^™ , or a similar curved circuit board. The semiconductor surface and the wiring board are electrically connected through a through hole (via). According to one embodiment, two to 2,000 electrical paths may be required to connect the facet array and the wiring board.

  FIG. 9 is a detailed view of the facet of the curved surface sensor 12b. In general, the more polygons used to form a spherical surface, the more smoothly the sensor will be curved.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a wafer is manufactured such that each camera sensor has a grid-shaped facet when the wafer is manufactured. A flexible film (for example, MYLAR ^™ or KAPTON ^™ ) is attached to one of the front and rear surfaces of the sensor chip wafer, which can be bent slightly but has a strength that can support the facet at the position. . A thin line is formed by etching on the silicon chip between each facet. However, it must not pass through a flexible membrane. Next, the wafer is processed into a substantially spherical shape. Each facet is formed with a through hole that passes through the wafer and is connected to the wiring harness on the back surface. This wiring harness also serves to mechanically support each facet.

  9A and 9B show the facet 32b inside the curved sensor, and the electrical connection that connects the facet of the sensor and the wiring board.

  10A and 10B show a wiring board 38 that receives the output signal emanating from the facet of the sensor.

  11A and 11B show a substantially hemispherical body 40 formed by bending and joining a plurality of ultra-thin silicon petal-shaped segments 42. A curved sensor is made by bending these segments together.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of a petal-shaped segment 42. Such segments can be made using conventional manufacturing methods. According to one embodiment, if this segment is made using ultra-thin silicon, it can be bent to some extent without damaging the segment.

  As used herein and in the claims, the term “ultra-thin” means in the range of 50 to 250 microns. According to another embodiment, the pixel density increases toward the top of each segment and gradually decreases toward the base of each segment. This embodiment can be implemented by programming changes to the software or mask that generates the pixels.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a curved shape formed by joining or slightly overlapping the segments shown in FIG. The sensor is arranged on a concave surface and the electrical connection is made on the convex surface. The number of petal-shaped segments used to make such a non-planar surface may be any suitable number. Silicon can be processed in a desired form using heat or radiation. The curvature of the “petals” can be changed depending on the specific sensor design. According to another embodiment, a flat sensor may be arranged in the center, and a “petal” having a terminal portion cut into a square may be placed around the sensor.

  14A, 14B, and 14C show another method for fabricating a curved sensor. FIG. 14A shows a dome-shaped first core mold 43a on a base material 43b. In FIG. 14B, a thin sheet made of the heat-deformable material 43c is pressed onto the first core mold 43a. As shown in FIG. 14C, the central region of the heat-deformable material 43c is deformed according to the shape of the first core mold 43a, and is formed by a substantially hemispherical curved sensor base 43e.

  14D, 14E and 14F show another method for forming the base of the curved sensor. In FIG. 14D, the second heat-deformable sheet 43f is placed on the second core mold 43G. A vacuum pressure is applied to the port 43h, and the second thermally deformable sheet 43f is pulled into the space 43i surrounded by the second core mold 43g. FIG. 14E shows the next stage of this process. The temperature of the heater 43j is raised while the second thermally deformable sheet 43f is pulled inside the second core mold 43g by the vacuum pressure applied to the port 43h. The temperature of the second core mold 43g is increased. FIG. 14F shows that a substantially hemispherical dome 43k is formed for use as the base of the curved sensor. FIG. 14G shows the curved sensor base 43e or 43k after the sensor pixel 43l is formed on the base 43e or 43k.

[Improved digital zoom]
FIG. 15A shows a camera taking a wide-angle photograph, FIG. 15B shows that an actual magnification photograph is taken with the same camera, and FIG. 15C shows that a telephoto photograph is taken. In each drawing, the subject maintains the same state. It can be seen that a wide foreground is displayed in FIG. 15A, an actual size foreground in FIG. 15B, and an image obtained by enlarging a long-distance image in FIG. 15C on the camera screen (monitor). Similar to optical zoom, using digital zoom, the user can accurately view the image being processed by the camera sensor.

  Digital zoom works with software. The camera captures only a small part at the center of the video, captures the entire scene, or captures the subject at any magnification between them. The recorded part of the whole image can be viewed through the monitor. In one embodiment that uses pixels that are gathered at a relatively high density in the center, the software can use all the data when zooming out digitally. In the case of a telephoto image, even if this telephoto image is cut into a small sensor portion, the number of pixels per area in the center is larger, so that the image is clear. The reason is that the pixel density at the center is even higher.

  If the zoom is returned to the wide angle, the software compresses the data at the center to the pixel density at the end of the video. Even in this case, since there are very many pixels in the center of the wide-angle image, the image quality of the wide-angle image is not affected.

  However, if compression is not performed, the pixel at the center is unnecessary and a minute capture portion that cannot be seen is displayed, which requires more storage capacity and processing time. According to the current photographic terminology, when taking a telephoto, it is said to be “RAW” processed or not compressed in the center, whereas when it is wide-angle video, it is “JPEG” or other compression in the center. You may call it processing with an algorithm.

  Currently, digital zoom is neglected by experts in the field. If the image captured by a traditional sensor is digitally enlarged, it will be broken into jagged lines, pixels will be visible, and an image with poor resolution will be created. Optical zoom has never made a clear image that a fixed focal length lens can make, but it still cannot. Further, the optical zoom is slow and the amount of light passing through the optical unit is reduced.

  Embodiments of the present invention provide a camera that is light, fast, cheap, and a little more reliable. According to one embodiment, the present invention provides digital zoom. Since no optical zoom is required, the number of components is fundamentally reduced and a light lens can be designed.

  According to various embodiments of the present invention, many pixels are concentrated in the center of the sensor and few are located at the end of the sensor. Various density distributions can be formed between the central portion and the end portion. With such a feature, the user can zoom in to telephoto shooting using only the central portion while maintaining high resolution.

  According to one embodiment, when viewing an image with a wide field of view, the central pixel is “stored” or summed together to normalize the resolution with the outer pixel density value.

  When viewing images in telephoto mode, you can use the high resolution of the center pixel to obtain the clearest image without changing any lens or camera settings. In addition to extreme telephoto zoom, a wide viewing angle can be obtained with the digital zoom function. Such a feature is made possible by the excellent resolving power, contrast, speed, and color resolution that the lens can exhibit when the digital sensor is a curved surface that is not flat like the retina of the human eye.

  An average human eye consisting of cornea and lens uses an average of 25 million rod cells and 6 million cone cells to capture images. This level of video data is larger than video data captured by rare and expensive camera models or two types of cameras that have recently been commercialized. Furthermore, since such a camera uses only a planar sensor, approximately 7 to 20 lens elements must be used. These cameras are unable to capture dusk (sunset) video without artificial lighting or without ISO amplification (thus losing fine details of the video). The diameter of the human eyeball is on average 25 mm, but such high-end cameras use sensors that currently have a maximum diagonal length of 48 mm. Eagle eyes with very small eyes are eight times more than the number of sensory organs in the human eye, further illustrating the optical potential exerted by the curved sensor or retina.

  Embodiments of the present invention are more reliable and inexpensive and provide high performance. No more interchangeable lenses are required, and mirror actuation and coupling mechanisms are not required. The lens design becomes simple and the number of parts is small, so the saving effect can be doubled. This is because, unlike a curved surface, a flat film and a sensor are located where the distance and angle from the light coming from the lens change, so that chromatic aberration occurs and the amount of light changes across the sensor. To compensate for this, current lenses have alleviated such problems almost completely over the last two centuries, but have allowed a major compromise.

  The compromise includes limitations on speed, resolution, contrast, and color resolution. In addition, when designing a conventional lens, a plurality of parts, an aspheric lens, a special material, and a special coating on each surface are required. In addition, the air-glass interface and the glass-air interface are further increased, causing problems of light loss and light reflection.

[Variable pixel density]
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the central portion of the sensor that captures the digital magnified image has pixels arranged at a high density to allow for higher magnification video quality digital magnification.

  FIGS. 16 and 17 show such a feature, in which the pixels 48 are concentrated at a high density in the center of the sensor. By concentrating the pixels in the center of the sensor, there is no loss of image clarity during the digital zoom function. Such a unique approach provides gain for both planar and curved sensors. Pixels 48 are arranged substantially uniformly on the surface of the conventional sensor 46 shown in FIG. FIG. 17 shows a sensor 50 made according to the present invention, in which pixels 48 are arranged at a high density in the center of the sensor.

  According to another embodiment of the present invention, when the camera is taking a wide-angle picture, the high-density data at the center of the picture taken through appropriate software is compressed. This greatly reduces requirements during system processing and recording.

[Lens Shade]
Another embodiment of the present invention includes a lens shade that can sense whether the image being captured is wide-angle or telephoto. When the camera senses a wide-angle image, the shade contracts so that the shade does not enter the image area. If the camera senses that it will shoot a telephoto image, the shade will extend, blocking external light coming from outside the image area (causing flare and cloudy images).

  18 and 19 show a camera in which a retractable lens shade is optionally attached. During wide-angle shooting, the lens shade contracts as indicated by reference numeral 52. In the case of telephoto shooting, the lens shade extends as indicated by reference numeral 54. FIGS. 20 and 21 are similar to FIGS. 18 and 19, but show a camera using a flat sensor, and indicate that the lens shade function can be applied independently.

[Dust reduction]
Embodiments of the present invention reduce dust that has been a problem with conventional cameras because there is no optical zoom and no lens replacement is required. Therefore, the camera built in the mobile communication device can be sealed, and dust that disturbs image quality does not enter. Oxidation and condensation can be reduced by sealing an inert dry gas (such as argon, xenon, krypton, etc.) within the lens and sensor chamber in the camera housing 14. When such a gas is used, the camera can also have a good thermal insulation, gain a temperature change less, and can be used in a wider temperature range.

[Completely sealed camera]
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the entire camera can be sealed with an inert gas such as argon, krypton, or xenon.

[Improved optical performance]
The present invention can be implemented with an ultra high speed lens useful for monitoring without flash illumination (or without floodlight for motion) or when shooting fast motion. This is possible because non-planar sensors are used. And since there is no restriction | limiting by a plane sensor or a film, a still faster range like a f / 0.7 or f / 0.35 lens is attained in a practical side.

  All these improvements are put to practical use as new lens configurations become possible. Currently, when designing planar films and sensor lenses, the “rainbow effect” or chromatic aberration that occurs at the edge of the sensor where light travels farther and refracts more must be compensated. Current lens and sensor designs and associated processing algorithms must compensate for the low light intensity at the sensor end. Such compensation limits the potential for performance improvement.

  Since the camera lens and body are sealed, an inert gas such as argon, xenon, krypton, etc. can be injected during final assembly to reduce corrosion and rust. The camera of the present invention can operate over a wider temperature range. This is a gain for both the camera installed on the satellite and the ground.

[Rotation and movement of sensor]
22 and 23 show another structure of sensor array having sensor segments 32c separated by gaps 34 to further facilitate sensor assembly. According to the present embodiment, such a sensor arrangement is applied to the stop camera, and two pictures can be taken continuously in a short time.

  In the drawing, the sensor array is shown in its original position 74 and rotational position 76, respectively. The position of the sensor array changes between the time when the first photo is taken and the time when the second photo is taken. The leaked video at the first exposure is recognized by software, and the leaked video data is acquired at the second exposure and further inserted into the first video (stitch). Changes in sensor movement or direction can vary depending on the sensor facet pattern.

  A video camera can operate in the same way. Or, as another example, the gap can be filled in the subsequent processing process by simply moving the sensor and capturing only a new image using the data of the previous position. This method captures images using a moving sensor with a gap between the arranged sensors. This method is very easy to manufacture because the space between the segments is less important. As an example, the center square sensor is surrounded by eight square sensors, and this is further surrounded by 16 square sensors. The sensor is sized to fit the circular optical image, and each line has it. A slight curvature is given to make a non-planar sensor as a whole.

  When using, first take a picture with the camera. Next, immediately rotate the sensor a little or move its position and capture the second video immediately. The software knows where the gap is and inserts new data from the second photo into the first photo (stitch). As another method, the sensor can be linearly moved in a two-dimensional space depending on the arrangement pattern of the sensors, or can be moved along an arc in three dimensions so as to correspond to a curved surface.

  This concept allows complex sensors to be made more easily. In this case, the complex sensor is a large sensor composed of a plurality of small sensors. If such a complex sensor is used to capture a focused image, data necessary for creating a complete image leaks from the gap between the sensors. Reducing the gap can further reduce this problem, but makes it more difficult to assemble a sensor with a small gap. Larger gaps are easier and more economical to assemble the sensor, but produce incomplete images.

  However, according to the present method, after the first video is shot, the problem is solved by moving the sensor and shooting the second video quickly. Thereby, a complete image can be obtained, and data collected by the second image coming from the gap is separated using software and joined to the first data.

  Identical results can be obtained by moving or tilting the lens element or reflector to move the image slightly during rapid and continuous exposure. According to the present embodiment, the camera of the present invention uses a known “image stabilization” technique, except that the stabilization function is fundamentally changed and applied. This camera can take advantage of video stabilization for both the first and second video. This method neutralizes the effects of camera movement during exposure. Such movement can come from hand tremors or engine vibrations. However, according to this embodiment, after the first exposure, video stabilization is applied oppositely, and during the second exposure, by performing “video destabilization” or “intentional jitter”. Move the sensor image slightly. Even when this method is applied together with a sensor that is fixed in position, the gap between facets can be detected at the first exposure by moving the image at the second exposure. Video can be recorded and combined in the final video.

  In the example shown in FIG. 23, the sensor rotates back and forth. According to other embodiments, the sensor can be moved sideways or diagonally. Further, this sensor can rotate only a part of the entire circle. According to another embodiment, the sensor can be continuously rotated while the software combines the data to create a complete image.

  FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B show the second sensor group. The sensor is first shown to be in the original position 78 and then shown to be in the moved position 80.

[Sensor grid pattern]
25A, 25B, 25C, and 25D show four different embodiments for four different grid patterns of sensors 82, 84, 86, and 88. FIG. A curved surface sensor can be manufactured using the gap 34 between the facets 32e32f, 32g, and 32h.

[Electrical connection of sensor]
26, 27, and 28 show another embodiment of the electrical connection line that connects to the sensor.

  FIG. 26 shows a sensor 90 to which a substantially helical electrical connection conductor 92 is applied. The electrical conductor is coupled to the sensor at the point designated by reference numeral 94 and to the signal processor at the point designated by reference numeral 96. This embodiment is an electrical connection method that can be used when the sensor rotates between the first and second exposures as shown in FIG. This wiring method reduces the bending of the conductor 92 and extends the life. The signal processor is built into the sensor assembly.

  FIG. 27 shows the back side of the sensor 102 to which the conductor 100 in the form of “accordion” is connected, which is connected to the sensor at point A and connected to the signal processor at point B. This embodiment can be used when the sensor moves without rotating between the first and second exposures as shown in FIG. With such a connection method, it is possible to withstand 20 sensor connections to the front and rear as in the case of coil wiring.

  FIG. 28 shows the back surface of the sensor 114 having a substantially radial conductor. Each conductor is connected to a brush B in contact with the ring. The output of the rotation sensor is collected while moving while the brush is in contact with the ring, and transmitted from the center point C to the processor. This embodiment can be used when the sensor rotates during exposure. This connection method can also be applied to other embodiments, for example, a sensor that subsequently rotates. According to such an embodiment, the sensor rotates continuously in one direction and the software detects the gap and fills the data leaked from the first exposure.

[Wireless connection]
FIG. 29 is a block diagram of the wireless coupling device 118. Sensor 12 is coupled to transmitter 120 that sends a signal to wireless receiver 122. The receiver is coupled to the signal processor 124.

The gain obtained by the present invention can be summarized as follows. However, it is not limited to these.
High-resolution digital zoom function Fast, light, long focus range reliability Excellent low chromatic aberration More precise pixel resolution Flash or floodlight unnecessary Zoom function from wide angle to telephoto

<III. Additional Examples>
A mobile communication device including a camera 150 having many preferred features according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  Since existing functions such as the battery, shutter release, aperture monitor, monitor screen, etc. are clear, explanations are omitted.

  The camera includes a sealed housing 154 that houses a generally curved sensor 160 and a lens 156. The housing 154 is filled with argon, xenon, and krypton. The front surface of the sensor 160 is schematically shown in FIG. 31, but a plurality of planar square pixel elements (ie, facets) 162 are inclined relative to each other to form a substantially curved surface. The central square 170 is maximized to reduce the area of the generally triangular gap 164 that occurs between the pixel elements 162, and the eight adjacent squares surrounding it are slightly smaller so that the corners of the outline The parts are brought into contact with each other or are almost in contact with each other. Similarly, the 16 adjacent squares 176 that surround them are made slightly smaller than their inner squares 172.

  The center square 170 has the highest pixel density and uses this square facet alone to capture telephoto images. The square 172 that encloses inside is pixelated at an intermediate density and provides the image quality of an actual magnification photograph.

  The enclosing rectangle 176 has the lowest density of pixels. In this embodiment, the gap 164 between the pixel elements 162 is used as a path through which the electrical connection line passes. The camera 150 further includes a lens shade extender 180, which includes an inner fixed shade member 182, a first movable shade member 184, and a second movable shade member 186 that is radially outermost. . As shown in FIG. 30, when the user takes a wide-angle photograph, the shade member contracts. In this case, only stray light entering at an extreme wide angle is blocked. In this mode, in order to reduce data processing time and recording requirements, the high density pixel data in the central portion 170, 172 of the curved sensor is generally made to be the same as the low pixel density at the sensor end facets 176. It can be normalized over the video area.

  In the case of an actual magnification photograph, the shade member 184 expands to block stray light coming from outside the subject area. In this mode, a portion of the data facet 172 of the curved sensor is compressed. In order to reduce processing time and recording requirements, data of the central area 170 having the highest pixel density can be normalized over the entire video area. When the user takes a telephoto photograph using the digital zoom, the shade member 186 extends. In this mode, only the central portion 170 of the curved surface sensor 160 is used. Since pixels are covered with high density only in the center of the sensor, the image becomes clear.

  In operation, the camera 150 performs two exposures to fill all gaps within the sensor range, that is, to obtain pixel data that leaks from the gap 164 upon a single exposure. For this purpose, the camera performs one of the following two methods. First, as described above, after the sensor is moved, the second exposure is then performed quickly. The data leaked due to the gap of the image sensor is detected by the processing software at the time of the first exposure, and the leaked data is inserted into the first image. As a result, a complete video is generated. In the case of a moving image, such a process is continuously performed, and one of the previous or subsequent exposures is selected at the time of the third exposure to generate a complete image.

  The second is a method of fundamentally changing the standard process using “video stabilization” which is currently known in the art. Stabilize the video during the first exposure. Once recorded, this “image stabilization” is stopped, the image is moved by the stabilization device, and the second image is captured in a more stable state. In this way, a complete image can be made again without moving the sensor at all. The dotted line shown in FIG. 30 shows the two-dimensional movement of the lens in one embodiment of the focus processing. According to another embodiment of the invention for intentional jittering, the lens does not move back and forth, but instead is tilted to change the position of the image connected to the sensor.

  The camera 150 described above has many advantages. By sealing the housing 154 filled with a gas such as argon, the components are prevented from being oxidized, and an operational thermal insulation effect can be obtained over a wide temperature range.

  Although the price of the high pixel density center square 170 is relatively high, it is relatively small and requires only one, thus reducing overall costs. The cost saving effect is great because a good digital zoom can be realized without a separate sub lens (the sub lens price is much higher than the sensor price, large, heavy and slow). The sensor 176 that surrounds the outside is relatively inexpensive because it is the smallest in size and has a small number of pixels. Thus, when looking at the overall assembly of square elements, the overall cost of the sensor is low, considering that good performance can be obtained over a wide perspective range.

  The camera 150 can be variously modified. For example, the lens 156 can be composed of a plurality of parts that are not monolithic. The enclosure 154 may be sealed with other inert or non-reactive gases (nitrogen, krypton, xenon, argon, etc.) or may not be sealed at all. Pixels or facets 170, 172, 176 can be rectangular, hexagonal, or other suitable shapes. The production of regular squares and squares is the easiest. The center pixel and the quadrangle pixel surrounding it with two layers have been described above, but the number of surrounding layers is arbitrary and can be realized with a desired number of layers.

  FIG. 32 is a block diagram of a camera 250 having many features of the camera 150 shown in FIGS. The non-planar sensor 260 is composed of a central region 270 having a high pixel density and a peripheral region 272 composed of facets having a low pixel density. A shutter controller 274 is also shown. The focus / stabilization operation mechanism 290 of the lens 256, the shutter controller 274, and the lens shade actuator 280 are controlled by the video sequence processor 200.

  Signals from pixels at facets 270, 272 are input to the far-field sensor capture device 202. The output of this device 202 is coupled to a device 204 that performs autofocus, autoexposure / gain, and autowhite balance functions. The other output of this device 202 is input to the pixel density normalizer 206, and the output is input to the video processing engine 208. A first output of engine 208 is input to display / LCD controller 210 and a second output of engine 208 is input to compression and storage controller 212. The features and variations of the various embodiments of the invention can be combined or substituted as desired.

<IV. Mobile communication device having curved sensor camera>
33, 34, 35, and 36 show an embodiment of the present invention in which a curved sensor camera is coupled to a mobile communication device. Mobile communication devices can include cell phones, laptops, notebook or netbook computers, or other suitable devices or means for communication, recording, or computation.

  FIG. 33 is a side view illustrating a specific embodiment of such an apparatus, including an evolved form of camera 150 that captures stop photos and video footage on both the front surface 305a and the back surface 305b. The housing 302 includes a microcontroller 304, a display screen 306, a touch screen interface 308a, and a user interface 308b. A power and / or data terminal 310 and a microphone are located at the lower end of the housing 302. A volume and / or sound canceling operation switch 318 is installed on one of the thin side surfaces of the housing 302. A speaker 314 and an antenna 315 are installed inside the upper portion of the housing 302.

  34 and 35 show perspective views 330 and 334 of another embodiment 300a. 36 and 37 show perspective views 338, 340 of yet another example 300b.

<V. Method for capturing minute images that cannot be recorded by existing sensor>
This alternative method exposes multiple times quickly, but moves precisely little by little for each exposure. For example, although the same scene is shot four times, the image is moved by 1/2 pixel in each of the four directions for each exposure (actually, the moving amount of the image to be used is changed to 3, 4, 5). More than one exposure may be applied).

  For example, the tree in FIG. 38 is far from the camera and occupies 4 pixels horizontally (there is a space between pixels), and vertically occupies 5 pixels, including spaces. (Currently commercially available cameras have a resolution of 250,000 pixels, and the image of this tree is smaller than one millionth of the image area and cannot be distinguished by visual inspection unless it is extremely enlarged.) .

  FIG. 39 shows a part of a specific camera sensor, both flat and curved. In the following description, the vertical columns are numbered with letters and the horizontal columns are numbered. A black part shows the space between pixels.

  FIG. 40 shows how the tree image is positioned on the pixel when initially exposed. It should be noted that the image of the tree is “covered more than elsewhere” only in pixels C2, C3, D3, C4, D4, B5, C5, D5. These pixels are recorded as the video.

  FIG. 41 shows a result image of the tree when the exposure is performed once. The black pixel becomes the first image.

  FIG. 42 shows the second exposure data. It should be noted that at the time of this exposure, the image has moved by ½ pixel to the right. For moving the image, the sensor may be physically moved, and the “image stabilization” technique known in the art may be applied in reverse. Image stabilization is a method of removing image clouding that occurs due to camera movement during exposure. For the second exposure, this technique is applied in the opposite direction to move the image imaged on the sensor. The reverse application of video stabilization techniques only between exposures is a unique technique and is claimed in the present invention.

  In FIG. 42, the pixels of the image “covered more than others” are D2, C3, D3, C4, D4 (E4 may be either), C5, D5, and E5. The resulting video data is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 44 shows the third exposure data. This time, the image is moved upward by ½ pixel from the second exposure data. As a result, the tree occupies the pixels D2, C3, D3, C4, D4, E4, and D5. The result data of the third exposure is as shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, in the example of FIG. 46, the image is moved to the left by ½ pixel from the third exposure data. As a result, the image is located on the pixels C2, C3, D3, B4, C4, D4, and C5.

  FIG. 47 shows an image in which the fourth exposure data is recorded. The camera has four types of scenes for the same tree image.

  Current image stabilization neutralizes minute hand tremors that occur during a single exposure, and also neutralizes vibrations from motors, etc., to remove image fogging. Such a function implies that video movement to a second, third, fourth, or higher position can occur quickly.

  Just as most digital cameras have become video cameras due to improvements in subsequent models (previously there were only stopped video cameras), pixel response times have continued to improve. This also implies that rapid multiple exposures can be made, especially since this is an essential aspect of the motion picture technique.

  For changing the mode of the image stabilization mechanism to move the image a small amount by each exposure while stabilizing the image during each exposure during multiple exposure, or Not implied.

  Another way to achieve the same effect is to move the sensor slightly.

  The software interprets the four captured images, which is part of the claimed invention. The software grasps that there is a short fragment in the lower middle of any video from “see” the data in FIG. 45 and FIG. In FIG. 41 and FIG. 43, since this fragment is leaking, the software determines that the width of this fragment is 1 pixel and the length is half (1/2) pixel.

  After seeing all four scenes, the software knows that whatever the video is, there is a base on the fragment that occupies three pixels that is wider and horizontal than the rest. This is determined based on the four lines in FIGS. 45 and 47 and the five lines in FIGS. 41 and 43.

  The software does not know what this image is by looking at lines 3 and 4 of FIGS. 41 and 43, but the second layer is 2 pixels wide and 2 pixels high on the wide base end. Once grasp that it is occupied. However, the software further looks at the three rows of FIGS. 45 and 47 and confirms that the width of the second layer is 2 pixels, but the height may be 1 pixel. The software averages these different results and concludes that the second hierarchy has a height of 11/2 pixels.

  The software sees two rows of all four videos and recognizes that there are more narrower videos on the second layer. The image is consistently 1 pixel wide and 1 pixel wide, is located on the second layer and is centered on the widest base (the bottom layer fragment is In some cases it is above the center of this piece).

  FIG. 48 shows result data obtained by shooting and recording by moving 1/2 pixel for each exposure during multiple exposure. Since the data has four times as much information, a synthesized pixel can produce fine pixels of 1/4 even when viewed on the screen or printed. As a result, it is possible to see a fine image that the sensor screen could not be captured by one exposure.

  FIG. 49 shows an original image of a tree that was digitally recorded while the sensor was exposed four times, but moved 1/2 pixel for each exposure. FIG. 49 shows the tree itself and four representative digital images of the tree recorded with four exposures. It doesn't look like a tree at all.

  Digitally capture the tree image four times. FIG. 50 shows a method for decomposing an original tree into a plurality of images, and whether a composite image generated by software from these four images is very similar to the original tree. Although not completely similar, they are closer. Considering that the area of this video is approximately 0.000001%, if the video is similar to this level, it can be used sufficiently for monitoring.

<VI. Other methods for forming curved sensor>
According to one embodiment of this new method, it is proposed to heat the wafer in a substantially molten state to produce a concave mold for forming silicon. Next, silicon is attached to the mold by gravity. In all such methods, the original thickness can be maintained uniformly by rapidly reducing the temperature to cool the mold.

  The use of centrifugal force is also the second possible method. The third method is to lower the pressure due to the porosity of the mold, and the fourth method is to increase the temperature of the vapor by using the liquid used at pressure and / or very high boiling point. . In the fourth method, the convex mold is simply pressed on the wafer so as to enter the concave mold. However, this is also done after raising the temperature of the silicon.

  Heating can be performed in various ways. Conventional “baking” is one method, and the second method is to select a radiation wavelength that affects the silicon material more than other materials. In order to proceed with this second method, a material such as soot that absorbs most of the radiation may be applied to the surface of the silicon to be convex and then removed. Although this material absorbs the radiation wave, heating of the portion is promoted. However, the thickness of the wafer is heated unevenly. That is, when the convex surface is heated most, this portion is expanded most. The third method is to apply a radiation absorbing material to both sides. The concave surface absorbs compressive tension and the convex surface is pulled by tensile stress and can be heated to adjust these deformation forces without rupture of the wafer.

  The last method is simply to remove unnecessary portions by machining, polishing and laser etching in order to produce a curved surface sensor.

  As a first implementation process, an ingot material such as silicon is processed to form a curved surface. This ingot must be thicker than a normal wafer. As the processing, mechanical processing by laser, ion, or other methods can be used. As a second implementation process, the wafer material is placed on a pattern in which concave disks are arranged. By heating with a flash, the wafer material falls into a concave groove. This can be done simply by gravity or a centrifuge can be used.

  Another method is to “apply” to the backside a specific substance that absorbs a specific wavelength of radiation that heats the backside of a material such as silicon, so that less heat is transferred to the middle part of the sensor. it can.

  This allows the middle part of the material, such as silicon, to be heated less and provides greater flexibility in the stretched surface so that it fits snugly, supports the sensor together, and does not shrink or stretch Just bend. According to yet another embodiment, the portion can be contracted without rupture by “coating” a wavelength absorbing material on the surface and irradiating it with radiation. According to yet another embodiment, both sides are heated simultaneously just before re-formation. If the doping material has already been injected, it must be chosen such that the radiation wavelength and the “application” of the absorbing material can minimize or eliminate the influence on the doping material.

<VII. Improving image clarity>
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the sensor and / or optical element is intentionally moved substantially constant during multiple exposure shooting. According to another embodiment, such movement can be performed intermittently. The software then processes the multiple exposures and produces an improved video with excellent image quality and sharp edges. The software takes as much exposure as the user can determine.

  In this embodiment, the sensors are arranged such that the pixel density varies, and the density is highest in the center of the sensor. When the sensor rotates, the movement at the outer edge is much greater than the movement at the center. Taking pictures that move smaller than the pixel diameter improves the clarity of the video captured by the composite video. The pixels at the outer edge have the smallest density, so the size of each pixel is the largest. The pixel in the center has the highest density, so the pixel size is the smallest. Among these, the pixel size gradually increases as the distance from the center increases. In such a method, by rotating to a certain extent, the change in the number of pixels becomes the same throughout the entire image, and the image quality in this rotation direction can be improved. If the pixel is rotated by a certain amount and the second exposure is performed, the edge of the image is captured more clearly and improved.

[When moving the image with the sensor fixed]
According to another embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to fix a flat or curved sensor and move the image in a circle to acquire data or generate an image. Taking one example embodying such an embodiment, the diameter of the circular movement path of the image is generally smaller than the pixel width of the sensor. As an example, the diameter of the circular movement path is half the pixel width. According to this embodiment, the pixel density is constant across the sensor. If the video is a clock photo, the clock moves constantly, drawing a small circle, with the number 12 always up and the number 6 always down.

[When fixing the image and moving the sensor]
According to still another embodiment of the present invention, data or an image can be generated by moving a flat or curved sensor while drawing a perfect circle substantially constant. Taking one example embodying such an embodiment, the diameter of the circular movement path of the moving sensor is generally smaller than the pixel width of the sensor.
As an example, the diameter of the circular movement path is half the pixel width. In other embodiments, the circular travel path has 4 and 1/2 pixels, or 6 and 1/4 pixels, or other suitable diameter.

The advantages of such an embodiment are as follows.
No reciprocation at all, no energy loss during no-vibration stop and moving operation

  FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram 342 of an optical element 344 moving over a planar sensor 346. The optical element 344 is moved to draw a complete circle on the planar sensor so that incident light travels on the planar sensor along a complete circular path 348. In this embodiment, the optical element is illustrated as an objective lens.

  According to other embodiments, other suitable lenses and optical components can be used. According to yet another embodiment, the optical element 344 is tilted back and forth substantially continuously or intermittently, or nodded to move the image over the stationary flat sensor 346 to draw a complete circle. be able to.

  FIG. 52 is a top view 350 of the optical element 344 moving on the fixed planar sensor 346 as shown in FIG. The optical element 344 moves on the sensor 346 in a complete circular path to move incident light on the planar sensor 346.

  53 is a schematic diagram 352 of an optical element 344 that moves over a fixed curved sensor 354, and FIG. 54 is a top view 356 of the optical element 344 and sensor 354 as shown in FIG. is there.

  FIG. 55 is a schematic diagram 358 of a method for moving the planar sensor 360 under the fixed optical element 362, and FIG. 56 is a top view of the fixed optical element 362 and the sensor 360 as shown in FIG. It is FIG.

  FIG. 57 shows the degree of detail 364 of the component that causes the rotational movement of the sensor 360 shown in FIGS. 55 and 56. A flat sensor 360 is attached to a connecting rod or connecting portion 367 installed on the rotating disk 366. That is, the rotating disk 366 is located under the sensor 360. Sensor attachment occurs at a position 368 away from the center of the disk 366. The disc is rotated by an electric motor 370 below the disc. The motor shaft 372 is not aligned with the attachment point 368 of the connecting rod 367.

  58 is a perspective view of the configuration shown in FIG.

  FIG. 59 is a schematic view 374 of the fixed optical element 362 located on the curved sensor 376. A curved sensor 376 moves under the fixed optical element 362.

  FIG. 60 is a top view of the optical element 362 and the sensor 376 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 61 is a schematic diagram 378 of a method for circularly moving the optical element 344, as shown in FIGS. Surrounding the optical element 344 is a band 380 that provides a rotational contact point 382 for the plurality of springs 384. Cams 386 and 388 are in contact with the two springs, and each cam is attached to electric motors 390 and 392. As the cam rotates, a spring connected to a band surrounding the optical element moves the optical element. The two cams are out of phase at 90 ° to cause circular motion.

  FIG. 62 is a schematic diagram 394 showing nine forms of planar sensors moving along a single trajectory on a circular path. According to one embodiment, the circular path is smaller than one pixel diameter. In each figure, the rotation axis C near the lower corner of the left side of the quadrangular sensor is shown. A radial line segment is shown for every figure, which is a line segment connecting the axis of rotation and the point at the top of each square. Each figure shows a quadrangular sensor moved 45 ° clockwise about the rotation axis C. In each figure, a square drawn with a dotted line indicates the original position of the square sensor. Radial line segments were numbered from r1 to r9 by 8 steps of movement in a circle.

  According to another embodiment, the sensor shown in FIG. 62 can be configured in a rectangular shape or other suitable plane form. According to yet another embodiment, the sensor can be made curved or hemispherical. The movement can be in the clockwise direction, in the counterclockwise direction, or in a suitable position for achieving the objectives of the present invention.

  FIG. 63 is a schematic view of a planar sensor 396 in which pixels are arranged. The sensor shown in FIG. 63 is in its original position, and the sensors shown in FIGS. 64 and 65 are continuously rotated along a circular path.

  While the sensor rotates, multiple exposures are made, which is determined by software. According to the present embodiment, the inner pixel row and the outer pixel row are moved by the same number of pixel intervals. This embodiment enhances the sharpness of images that exceed the number of pixels of the sensor and is used in conjunction with the method described in the previous chapter V, “Methods for capturing fine images that cannot be recorded by existing sensors”. can do.

  Although the pixel density on the sensor has increased rapidly, the pixel size has been reduced and each pixel can only detect one photon, thus hitting the pixel density limit. That is, as the pixel size decreases, the sensitivity of the sensor decreases.

  This embodiment is implemented with the sensor coupling method and apparatus described in U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 655,819 filed on Jan. 6, 2010 (see U.S. Published Patent No. 2010/0260494, especially paragraphs 101-113). be able to.

  As yet another embodiment, a sensor and a microprocessor can be connected using a small wireless device.

<VIII. Other Example-Sensor Fabricated from Silicon Fiber Fabric>
According to a further embodiment of the invention, the sensor is made of a fabric woven with silicon fibres. In this embodiment, silicon fibers are used, but the present invention can be implemented using any light transmissive fiber material suitable for the purpose of the present invention.

  FIG. 66 shows a single strand of silicon fiber 400 made of silicon. FIG. 67 shows a fabric 402 woven with two sets of such fibers 400.

  One set of fibers is arranged substantially parallel to each other, and the two sets of fibers are orthogonal to the set of fibers, but are woven sequentially so as to pass above and below each fiber. In traditional fiber weaving, a set of parallel fibers is called “warp”, and two sets of fibers weaving while passing the warp down and above are called “wefts”. When silicon fibers are melted by heat, a hard woven fabric is formed. Therefore, it is not necessary to weave while passing above and below each fiber, and it is only necessary to weave every two fibers or every ten pieces. As a possible example, when 10 warp fibers are woven above and below 10 weft fibers, they can be woven in units of 10 at the same time.

  Another way is to pass the first warp over 10 wefts and the second warp after passing over 9 wefts and then up and down 10 wefts. it can. Next, a pattern in which the third warp yarn is passed over the eight weft yarns and then passed over and under the ten weft yarns from the end of the fabric to the end of the fabric can be repeatedly woven.

  After weaving the fibers 402, they are placed on the heated first core mold 404 as shown in FIG. The upper part of the first core mold 404 is a curved surface. A second core mold 505 having a curved surface similar to this is positioned on the first core mold 404. The woven fibers take a core shape, and when heated, the silicon fibers are fused, as shown in FIG. As a result, the curved surface sensor 406 is manufactured, and unnecessary redundant portions 408 are cut off.

  According to another embodiment, the fiber groups 410 arranged in parallel are processed as shown in FIGS. 70 and 71 and formed of a single layer of unwoven thin film 412. If the non-woven thin film 412 is pressure-bonded between two core molds and heated, a curved sensor is manufactured while the silicon fibers are melted. The heat applied is sufficient if the silicon can be made flexible. In order to maintain this state, the core mold may be warmed first, but it must be quickly cooled so that the silicon is stable in the final hemispherical form.

  As yet another modified example, as shown in FIG. 72, two sets of fibers can be arranged at right angles (414), and heat can be applied to form a fused thin film 416.

<IX. Other Example-Curved Surface Sensor Manufactured by Changing Size of Mini Sensor>
According to still another embodiment of the present invention, the curved sensor 418 is manufactured by arranging a plurality of substantially flat mini-sensors and forming a substantially curved surface.

  According to the present embodiment, a slightly different manufacturing process is applied to each row in which mini sensors are gathered. According to other embodiments, the sensor may be a conventional flat sensor.

  According to the present embodiment, each mini sensor is slightly smaller in size than the adjacent inner rows, and each corner does not overlap even if the sensor is tilted inward to form a curved surface. This creates the gap described at the front of the specification. Also, such gaps are connected to the pixels at even shorter intervals, reducing space waste. As described above, since the image or the sensor itself moves and double exposure is performed, the image is captured on the entire sensor surface, and a “fill factor” of almost 100% can be obtained. “Fullness” is a term in the art that refers to the sensor area that actually captures photons and converts them into signal data.

  According to this embodiment, there are different pixel densities. Since the density of the mini-sensor in the central part of the whole sensor is the highest, the utility of the digital zoom is increased, and a clear image can be obtained without excessive cost. The density in the next column is even lower, saving money and getting a sharpness equal to that determined by the total number of pixels when shooting an actual scene without magnification. The outer row (in this example, it is assumed that there are simply three rows) has the lowest definition and the highest number, but the manufacturing cost is the lowest.

  Suppose that only one of many possible examples has “mini-sensors” arranged in three rows to make up a “substantially curved sensor” as a whole. The center sensor is used only when performing telephoto shooting with the digital zoom function, and includes a 20MP sensor. Thereby, a telephoto image superior to the telephoto image by the optical zoom is generated. The cost of a “minisensor” that is small and densely arranged with pixels is competitive. The cost increases due to ultra-high density pixels, but the size of one “minisensor” may be small, thus overcoming this problem and thus increasing production per wafer. Assume that the second row surrounding this center sensor contains eight smaller 2.5 MP “minisensors”.

  While the “mini sensor” in the center is used for the digital zoom image at the maximum magnification, when the “mini sensor” in the second row is used together, the subject turns into an actual magnification photograph. In this embodiment, since the 20MP image is created by combining the 8 second row “mini-sensors”, the central sensor is compressed to 2.5MP itself. This means that an actual magnification photograph can consist of 22.5 MP. This is also a clear image. By compressing the data in the central “minisensor”, the processing is quicker and the requirements for recording are reduced. When capturing the image by switching the telephoto image to the actual magnification, the central sensor does not need a high degree of clarity. Similarly, in the case of an embodiment designed for wide angle photography, there are 16 “minisensors” of 1 MP each in the outermost row. However, the inner row and the central “mini-sensor” are processing unnecessary amounts of data, so they are all compressed to 1 MP. This results in a 25 MP wide-angle image that is larger than the human eye can read at 8 "× 10" when enlarged (25 "mini-sensors" each process 1 MP data).

  Such a configuration not only saves money for telephoto, actual magnification, wide angle, and all the situations in between, but also provides an optimal mega-class pixel count (MP).

  Further, according to another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 73, the “mini-sensor” having a relatively low density in the outermost row is configured to be larger in size than other mini-sensors close to the central sensor. Has been. A relatively large minisensor is even more sensitive than a small sensor that is aimed at the center of the sensor. While the mini-sensors in the large surrounding row are large, the mini-sensor in the center is relatively small. FIG. 73 shows a central mini-sensor 420, a mini-sensor 422 in the first row, a mini-sensor 424 in the second row, and a mini-sensor 426 in the outermost row.

  According to yet another embodiment, the sensor can rotate substantially continuously as in FIG. For example, if the sensor rotates 0.001 °, this is approximately the same as the pixel-image movement for the three rows of the center sensor, the first row sensor, and the outer sensor. By using multiple exposures, it is possible to capture a clearer picture than what is implied by the number of pixels. This is because the sensor captures a new pixel portion at the edge of the image during the second exposure. With this method, a clear image can be obtained in the rotation direction, but nothing can be obtained in the center direction.

  FIG. 75 shows still another embodiment, in which pixel portions are alternately arranged on a minisensor.

  Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to a plurality of preferred embodiments, those having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains may be understood in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. It can be seen that variations and improvements are possible. The various alternatives for providing the “curved sensor camera with moving optical part” disclosed above are only described for the reader to understand the preferred embodiment of the present invention, It is not intended to limit the limits.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Camera with curved surface sensor Curved surface sensor 14 Housing 16 Objective lens 18 Incident light 20 Electric output from sensor 22 Signal processor 24 User operation device 26 Battery 28 Memory 30 Camera output 32 Facet 34 Facet gap 36 Through hole 38 Wiring board 40 Curved surface sensor 42 made of adjacent petal-shaped segments 42 Petal-shaped segments 43a First core mold 43b Base material 43c First heat-deformable sheet 43d Deformable material dome portion 43e on the core mold Curved sensor hemispherical base 43f Second heat-deformable sheet 43g Second core type 43h Port 43i Empty area 43j Heater 43k Curved sensor hemispherical base 43l Sensor pixel 44 formed on the base 43e or 43k Monitor 46 A substantially uniform pixel Conventional sensor with cell density 48 Sensor with high pixel density towards the center 50 Pixel 52 Shade contraction 54 Shade extension 56 Multi-lens camera assembly 58 Objective lens 60 Built-in camera / lens combination 62 Basic objective lens 64 Auxiliary Objective Lens 66 First Sensor 68 Second Sensor 70 Mirror 72 Side Position Sensor 74 Original Position Sensor 76 Rotated Position Sensor 78 Original Position Sensor 80 Moved Position Sensor 82 Other Embodiments of Sensor 84 Sensor Other embodiment 86 Other embodiment of sensor 88 Other embodiment of sensor 90 Back surface of one embodiment of sensor 92 Helical conductor 94 Sensor connection point 96 Processor connection point 98 Back surface of one embodiment of sensor 100 Accordion type Conductor 102 Sensor connection point 104 Processor connection point 06 Back side of one embodiment of sensor 108 Radial conductor 110 Brush 112 Brush contact point 114 Annular ring 116 Sensor center, processor connection point 118 Schematic of wireless connection 120 Transmitter 122 Receiver 124 Processor 150 Camera 154 Housing 156 Lens 160 Sensor 162 Facet 164 Gap 170 Central square 172 Surrounding square 176 Surrounding square 180 Shade telescopic device 182 Inner shade member 184 Movable shade member 186 Outer movable shade member 190 Lens movement mechanism 200 Image processor 202 Sensor capture device 204 Automatic device 206 Pixel density normalizer 208 Video processing engine 210 Display / LCD controller 212 Compression and storage controller 250 Camera 256 Lens 260 Sensor 270 Center Facet 272 Surrounding Facet 274 Shutter Control 280 Lens Shade Actuator 290 Focus / Stabilization Actuator 292 Lens Movement 300 First Example 300a of Compound Device First Example 300b of Compound Device First embodiment 302 Housing 304 Microcontroller 305a Front surface 305b Back surface 306 Display screen 308a Touch screen interface 308B User interface 310 Power and / or data terminal 314 Speaker 315 Antenna 330 Other embodiments 334 Other embodiments 338 Other embodiments 340 Other Example 342 Schematic of Fixed Plane Sensor and Moving Lens 344 Moving Lens 346 Fixed Plane Sensor 348 Optical Path 350 FIG. 51 as Seen from Above 352 Schematic diagram of fixed curved surface sensor and movable lens 354 Fixed curved surface sensor 356 FIG. 53 viewed from above 358 Schematic diagram of movable planar sensor and fixed lens 360 Mobile planar sensor 362 Fixed lens 364 Fig. 365 seen from above Fig. 365 Schematic diagram of components causing circular movement of sensor 366 Rotating disc 367 Connecting rod 368 Attachment point 370 Electric motor 372 Motor rotating shaft 373 Perspective view of Fig. 57 on moving curved surface sensor Schematic diagram of fixed lens 376 Moving curved surface sensor 377 Fig. 59 viewed from above 378 Schematic diagram of components to move lens 380 Band 382 Spring 384 Spring 386 with cam in contact First cam 388 Second cam 390 1st electric motor 392 2nd electric motor 394 9 types at the time of sensor rotation 96 Sensor 398 Pixel 400 Optical fiber 402 Mesh woven with optical fiber 404 Heated first core type 405 Upper core type 406 Textile dome 408 Arrangement and removal of unnecessary parts 410 Parallel arrayed fibers 412 Fused thin film 414 Two sets of fibers arranged at right angles 418 Sensor 420 composed of mini-sensor rows increasing in size Sensor 422 First row of mini-sensors 424 Second row of mini-sensors 426 Size of outermost rows of mini-sensors 428 Rotating sensor 430 composed of an increasing number of mini-sensors 430 A sensor composed of a mini-sensor array, and each mini-sensor is moving upward in order

Claims (56)

  Mobile communication means for providing a communication function, wherein the mobile communication means includes a casing, the casing includes an objective lens, the objective lens is attached to the casing, and the objective lens is radiated light. A curved surface sensor including a mobile communication means and a plurality of planar facets, wherein the curved surface sensor is mounted inside the housing, and the curved surface sensor is connected to the objective lens. An apparatus comprising: a curved sensor that is aligned and has a portion that deviates from a substantially two-dimensional plane, and wherein the curved sensor outputs a signal for video recording. The body,
An optical element mounted on the housing for transmitting radiation light; and
A sensor mounted inside the housing, wherein the sensor is aligned with the optical element and outputs a signal for recording an image, and
An apparatus in which the optical element moves intentionally during the collection of the emitted light to enhance the image. The sensor is a curved surface sensor,
The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the curved sensor includes a plurality of planar facets.   4. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the curved sensor includes a plurality of segments as a whole.   The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of segments are arranged so as to form a substantially curved surface.   4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the curved sensor has a two-dimensional cross section that is not completely collinear with a straight line.   The apparatus according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the curved sensor is made of ultra-thin silicon.   8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the thickness of the ultra-thin silicon is in the range of 50 to 250 microns on one dimension.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the curved sensor is made of polycrystalline silicon.   The apparatus according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the curved sensor includes a plurality of radial segments.   4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the curved surface sensor is formed of a plurality of polygons.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of pixels are arranged on the curved surface sensor while changing in density.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the curved sensor is configured to have pixels having a relatively high density at a substantially central portion of the curved sensor.   4. An apparatus according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the curved sensor is configured to have relatively low density pixels at substantially the ends of the curved sensor.   15. The telephoto shooting can be zoomed in while maintaining a relatively high image resolution by using the pixels having a relatively high density at a substantially central portion of the curved sensor. The device described. Further comprising a shade arranged to move globally to block incident light;
The shade contracts when a wide-angle image is detected and does not block incident light.
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shade extends when a telephoto image is detected, and blocks external incident light entering from a non-image area. The camera housing is sealed,
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an inert gas is injected into the camera housing during assembly.   The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the inert gas is selected from the group consisting of argon, krypton, and xenon.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the objective lens is fundamentally a high-speed lens and enables the mobile communication means to be used for monitoring without illumination.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the objective lens is basically a high-speed lens, and enables the mobile communication means to be used for fast-moving photography.   The curved surface sensor is connected to one of a spiral electrical connection line, an accordion-type electrical connection line, and a substantially radially extending electrical connection line. apparatus. A transmitter coupled to the curved sensor;
The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a receiver coupled to the signal processor. In the plurality of segments, a gap is formed between the segments,
The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the gap is used as a path of an electrical connection line. Mobile communication means for providing a communication function, wherein the mobile communication means includes a casing, the casing includes an objective lens, the objective lens is attached to the casing, and the objective lens is radiated light. Providing mobile communication means for concentrating
A curved sensor including a plurality of planar facets, wherein the curved sensor is mounted inside the housing, the curved sensor is aligned with the objective lens, and the curved sensor deviates from a substantially two-dimensional plane; Forming a curved sensor having a portion to
Generating an image using an output of the curved sensor. Capturing only a small portion of the central image generated by the curved sensor;
Using a monitor to display the small portion of the entire video;
Switching digital zoom to telephoto shooting mode,
25. The method of claim 24, further comprising generating an image with improved image quality using relatively high density pixels in the center of the curved sensor. Capturing only a small portion of the central image generated by the curved sensor;
Using a monitor to display the small portion of the entire video;
Switching digital zoom to wide-angle shooting mode,
Generating data having an improved image quality by compressing data at a central portion of the entire image to a level substantially equal to a pixel density at an end portion of the entire image. 25. A method according to claim 24. When the curved sensor is in the first position, after capturing the first image, quickly changing the curved sensor to the second position and capturing the second image;
Recognizing video data leaked from the first video;
The method of claim 24, further comprising: acquiring leaked video data from the second video and plugging into the first video.   28. The method of claim 27, wherein the curved sensor rotates to go to a second position.   28. The method of claim 27, wherein the curved sensor moves to move to a second position.   25. The method of claim 24, further comprising tilting the objective lens during rapid double sequential exposure for image stabilization. First exposing the scene,
Moving the scene a little from the time of the first exposure and performing a second exposure on the subject;
25. The method of claim 24, further comprising interpreting the first and second exposures to identify objects in the scene. After heating the wafer in a substantially molten state, creating a concave mold for forming silicon,
25. The method of claim 24, further comprising allowing the silicon to be gravity loaded into the concave mold to make the curved sensor.   35. The method of claim 32, further comprising cooling the concave mold to maintain a uniform original thickness by rapidly reducing the temperature.   The method of claim 32, further comprising using a centrifuge to complete the production of the curved sensor.   The method of claim 32, further comprising lowering air pressure due to the porosity of the concave mold to complete the fabrication of the curved sensor.   The method of claim 32, further comprising using steam to complete the fabrication of the curved sensor. Pressing a convex mold on the upper side of the wafer;
33. The method of claim 32, further comprising placing the wafer in the concave mold after increasing the temperature.   The method of claim 32, further comprising processing the wafer to complete the fabrication of the curved sensor.   The method of claim 32, further comprising polishing the wafer to complete the fabrication of the curved sensor.   The method of claim 32, further comprising etching away excess material in the wafer with a laser to complete the fabrication of the curved sensor. First preparing a dome-shaped first core mold on a substrate and forming a base of the curved sensor;
Crimping a heat-deformable thin sheet on the first core mold;
Placing the second thermally deformable sheet on the second core mold;
Applying a vacuum pressure to pull down the second heat-deformable sheet;
Heating the second core mold;
The method of claim 32, further comprising forming sensor pixels on the curved sensor. A mobile communication device comprising a camera, wherein the camera includes an optical unit and a curved sensor, wherein the mobile communication device is provided, wherein the curved sensor is substantially bounded by a plurality of gaps. Including a plurality of facets, wherein the camera includes optical part moving means for intentionally imparting motion to the optical part;
Recording the first exposure data;
Driving the optical unit moving means to intentionally impart movement to the optical unit during the second exposure;
Recording second exposure data;
Comparing the first exposure data and the second exposure data to detect a missing portion from a desired image due to the plurality of gaps of the curved surface sensor;
Composing a complete image using both the first exposure data and the second exposure data. Providing a plurality of light transmissive fibers;
Arranging the plurality of light transmissive fibers in a first set and a second set;
Configuring the plurality of light transmissive fibers of the first set such that all the plurality of light transmissive fibers of the first set are substantially parallel to each other, the plurality of light transmission fibers of the first set The first set of the plurality of light transmissive fibers and the second set of the plurality of light transmissive fibers so that the light transmissive fibers and the second set of the plurality of light transmissive fibers are substantially orthogonal to each other. A stage in which the synthetic fiber is composed;
Weaving the second set of light transmissive fibers into the first set of light transmissive fibers to produce woven fibers;
Placing the woven fiber on a heated first core mold;
Crimping the fabric fibers overlying the first core mold using a heated second core mold;
Fusing together the plurality of light transmissive fibers of the first set and the plurality of light transmissive fibers of the second set to form woven fibers;
Removing the excess fabric, and a method for producing a sensor.   44. The method of claim 43, wherein the plurality of light transmissive fibers are formed of silicon.   45. The method of claim 44, wherein the first core mold and the second core mold are bent so that curved textile fibers can be made. Providing a plurality of light transmissive fibers;
Arranging a plurality of light transmissive fibers such that the plurality of light transmissive fibers are substantially parallel to each other;
Heating the plurality of light transmissive fibers to form a substantially flat nonwoven film;
Heating the nonwoven thin film on a mold.   47. The method of claim 46, wherein the plurality of light transmissive fibers are formed of silicon.   The method of claim 46, wherein the mold is bent to produce a curved nonwoven film. Providing a first set of light transmissive fibers and a second set of light transmissive fibers;
Arranging the first set of light transmissive fibers and the second set of light transmissive fibers at right angles;
Heating the first set of light transmissive fibers and the second set of light transmissive fibers to form a fusion thin film; and
Forming a sensor with the fused thin film.   50. The method of claim 49, wherein the first and second sets of light transmissive fibers are formed of silicon.   51. The method of claim 50, wherein a curved sensor is formed from the fused thin film. Preparing a sensor,
Preparing a plurality of substantially flat mini-sensors;
The substantially flat mini-sensors are arranged in a plurality of horizontal rows, and the plurality of substantially flat mini-sensors are arranged in each successive row so that the substantially flat mini-sensors are arranged at a low density. Fixing to the sensor.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein the two ends of the minisensor are substantially parallel to the base of the sensor.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein each minisensor in a minisensor row is positioned slightly higher than two adjacent minisensors in the same row.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein the sensor rotates substantially continuously about its vertical axis.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein the sensor is a generally curved sensor.

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