Design and replication of a six-channel foveated imaging system

Multichannel imaging systems consist of multiple channels which could have different imaging characteristics (field-of- view and angular resolution). The different imaging characteristics would enable the imaging system to achieve a variety of functionalities. In our approach, we designed and demonstrated a miniaturized six-channel multiresolution imaging system which allows a relative magnification ratio of up to 10 times between the different channels. The imaging system consists of two double-sided lens arrays replicated in-house in a polymer material through hot embossing. The mold inserts of the lens arrays were made in brass through ultra-precision diamond tooling. The replicated lens arrays were assembled together with a baffle block aiming at reducing crosstalk between neighboring channels. The assembled system was then integrated with a Sony full-frame image sensor and tested in proof-of-concept experiment. The acquired images using the integrated imaging system met the expectations compared to the simulation. This opens up new possibilities and functionalities in a compact imaging system.