AIS - Research

INSECT EYE CAMERA

Natural vision systems such as insect compound eyes provide intriguing design inspiration for miniaturized imaging systems. The compound eyes have further features such as wide field of view, low aberration, large depth-of-field (DOF) and high motion sensitivity. Despite its great advantages, improving the resolution of cameras inspired by the vision system of insect is still challenging. This camera inspired by Xenos peckii offers high-resolution imaging and various applications. High-resolution imaging is demonstrated through the ultrathin camera with micro-optical elements (MOE) consisting of inverted microlens arrays (iMLAs) and multilayered aperture arrays (MAAs). The proposed biologically inspired ultrathin arrayed camera offers new and practical directions for in the field of biomedical, mobile and surveillance.

METAVERSE WEARABLES

Metaverse wearables are devices that connect the physical and virtual worlds, enabling immersive interaction in digital environments. These sophisticated interfaces serve as a bridge between the physical and digital realms by facilitating sensory input, output, and data exchange. Our research focuses on advancing these wearable devices for the application of rehabilitation. We have successfully developed a novel technology that integrates a digital twin model, enabling the transmission of anatomical information to accurately monitor the rehabilitation process. As technology evolves, these devices are expected to play a key role in fields such as education, sports training, and healthcare, offering users rich and interactive virtual experiences.

COMPACT MICROSCOPY

The key issue of compact microscopy is image quality such as image contrast and resolution. A new configuration is required to improve microscopic image quality because compact microscopy has relatively low performances of small optical components compared with conventional microscopes. The goal of my research is also high-contrast and high-resolution imaging through a novel configuration of portable microscopy. To further enhance the image quality of microscopic imaging, the principal investigator also aims to develop various image processing algorithms.

MEDICAL IMAGING

Dentists need patient cooperation to monitor their teeth condition through intraoral cameras. In particular, patients often feel pain while opening their mouths in order to observe teeth in anatomically deep depth. However, the ultrathin dental camera can solve such discomfort states owing to the thin thickness and observe teeth image even in anatomically narrow regions. the ultrathin arrayed camera is inspired by the insect vision system, and clear dental imaging is achieved without image blur by emulating the insect vision feature of infinite depth of field even in close object distance.

MANUFACTURING MONITORING

The laser processing technology is evolving into ultra-precision, high-speed, and large-area processing for the production of precise components and to enhance productivity. Defects during laser processing may arise from factors such as focal length deviation, low laser power, and foreign substances. These defects can be identified through signals such as reflected light. We conducted real-time laser processing monitoring using a multi-wavelength array sensor. Signals acquired with multi-wavelength array sensors can be analyzed through AI algorithms to determine processing defects. When a signal deviates from the band of the normal signal analyzed through the AI algorithm, a sign of NG is displayed.