Compound eye for high-density 3D imaging

Prof. Lee Wing-bun and his research team at the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University have developed a system named "Compound eye for high-density 3D imaging". This innovation was inspired by the physiological structure of flies' compound eyes. Applying ultra-precision rolled plate machining technology, this low-cost system realises higher quality of images.



Adopting microlens arrays composed of 12,000 microlens, the technology can acquire realistic 3D images of objects at both near and far fields and achieve “shoot first, focus later” effect. By processing the captured images, this technology provides a solution for image distortion caused by conditions such as insufficient light and inadequate resolution.

This technology can be broadly applied in imaging applications, including high precision surface profile, displacement and velocity measurements. In future, such type of lens can be used for optical cameras for medical devices, Lytro cinema cameras, 3D scanners, as well as the production of 3D images and movies etc.

The invention won a Gold Medal and the Prize of Association “Russian House for International Scientific and Technological Cooperation” at the 44th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva.

More information can be found from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University website.