Adaptive Multi-Pulse Exposure Control for Image Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging devices face challenges in capturing high-quality multiple exposure images due to exposure value determination issues, leading to potential exposure shortages or overexposures, which can result in unclear subject images.
Innovation Solution
An imaging control device and method that utilize a controller and image sensor to capture multiple exposure images using exposure signals with varying pulse widths, allowing for the selection of an optimal pulse width based on received image data to adjust exposure times within frame periods, enabling appropriate exposure value setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple exposure images are captured using fixed exposure signals, then the imaging process is simple, but exposure value determination is inaccurate leading to exposure shortages or overexposures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the exposure signal adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The controller dynamically selects from multiple exposure signals with different pulse widths based on analysis of previously captured multiple exposure images, allowing the exposure parameters to adapt to varying scene conditions and achieve accurate exposure value determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the captured multiple exposure images to inform subsequent exposure signal selection. The controller analyzes the captured images to determine appropriate exposure parameters, creating a closed-loop system where previous imaging results feed back into controlling future imaging operations, thereby improving exposure accuracy.
2Manufacturing precision
If exposure time is increased to capture moving subjects clearly, then image quality improves, but subject distortion increases due to subject movement during exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the exposure process into multiple discrete pulses rather than using a single continuous exposure. The exposure signal comprises multiple pulses with different pulse widths, allowing the system to capture multiple images at different exposure intervals and select or combine them to minimize distortion while maintaining image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic action by implementing exposure as a series of periodic pulses rather than continuous exposure. The exposure signal contains multiple pulses occurring at specific intervals, enabling the system to capture subjects at different moments within the periodic cycle, thereby reducing motion distortion while maintaining adequate exposure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pulse width varies in exposure signal, then exposure flexibility increases, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining multiple exposure signals with different pulse widths before actual imaging. The controller has a set of predetermined exposure signals ready, and based on analysis of captured images, it selects the most appropriate pre-defined signal, avoiding the need for complex real-time calculation and adjustment of exposure parameters.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for the determination of optimal exposure times, resulting in clear and high-quality multiple exposure images, even for moving subjects, by varying the sensitivity and exposure duration, thus improving image capture accuracy and reducing distortion.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor to, during at least one first frame period, capture at least one first multiple exposure image
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging control device includes a controller and an input section. The controller causes an image sensor to, during at least one first frame period, capture at least one first multiple exposure image by using a first exposure signal that contains a plurality of pulses having a plurality of pulse widths different from one another; the image sensor is configured to capture an image by making multiple exposure. The input section receives the at least one first multiple exposure image. The controller selects one pulse width from the plurality of pulse widths, based on the first multiple exposure image received by the input section and then causes the image sensor to, during a second frame period, capture the image by using a second exposure signal that contains a pulse having the selected pulse width; the second frame period follows the first frame period.