Three dimensional imaging utilizing stacked imager devices and associated methods

Abstract

Stacked imager devices that can determine distance and generate three dimensional representations of a subject and associated methods are provided. In one aspect, an imaging system can include a first imager array having a first light incident surface and a second imager array having a second light incident surface. The second imager array can be coupled to the first imager array at a surface that is opposite the first light incident surface, with the second light incident surface being oriented toward the first imager array and at least substantially uniformly spaced. The system can also include a system lens positioned to direct incident light along an optical pathway onto the first light incident surface. The first imager array is operable to detect a first portion of the light passing along the optical pathway and to pass through a second portion of the light, where the second imager array is operable to detect at least a part of the second portion of light.

1 - 24 . (canceled) 
     
     
         25 . An imaging system capable of deriving three dimensional information from a three dimensional subject, comprising:
 an active illumination source capable of emitting pulsed infrared light;   a first imager capable of detecting visible and infrared light;   a second imager capable of detecting infrared light, wherein the active illumination source, first imager, and the second imager are pulsed at a frequency and duty cycle such that the pulsed infrared light is detected by the first imager and the second imager when the active illumination is on.   
     
     
         26 . The imaging system of  claim 25 , wherein the first imager is operable to detect visible light when the active illumination source is in an off state.