Image Data Aggregation High Dynamic Range Imaging System and Related Methods

Abstract

Aggregation of Image Data The high dynamic range imaging system includes: an image sensor for generating N image data sets from a photodiode array, where N is an integer greater than one. The image sensor is adapted to generate each of the N image data sets with different durations of respective exposure times of the photodiode array. The system also includes an image data aggregation module, which is used to aggregate N image data sets to obtain a virtual long-exposure image data set.

Description

Background technique [0001] Conventional image sensors have a limited dynamic range, eg, 60 decibels (dB) to 70 dB. However, many scenes have a much larger dynamic range. For example, natural scenes often have a dynamic range of 90 dB or more. Therefore, techniques have been developed to extend the dynamic range of image sensors. [0002] For example, multiple exposure techniques have been developed to obtain a single high dynamic range image from multiple exposures of conventional image sensors. In these techniques, multiple image data sets are generated, where each image data set is generated with a different duration of exposure using the photodiodes of the image sensor. Multiple image data sets can be sequentially generated one after the other. Alternatively, multiple image data sets may be generated in part in parallel using rolling shutter techniques, thereby reducing the delay between successive exposures of a given pixel. A high dynamic range image is sequentially...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, the fact that each pixel 102 includes at least eight photodiodes reduces the available surface area for large photodiodes, making it difficult to obtain high sensitivity in low light conditions.

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