Buffered Image Multiplexer for CoaXPress-to-GigE Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems face challenges in converting image data from CoaXPress to GigE Vision standard, leading to increased costs and communication band limitations, especially when multiple imaging devices are involved, resulting in delayed data transfer and loss of synchronicity.
Innovation Solution
A multiplexer that converts image data from multiple CoaXPress devices to GigE Vision standard using a storage unit to buffer data temporarily and a processing unit to convert the data, allowing simultaneous output without separate conversion units for each device, and a synchronization mechanism to maintain imaging timing synchronicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a grabber board is separately prepared for each CoaXPress imaging device, then the device can be used in restricted installation environments, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple CoaXPress imaging devices into a single network by connecting them to one terminal device through a multiplexer. This eliminates the need for separate grabber boards for each imaging device, reducing system cost while maintaining the ability to use CoaXPress cameras in restricted installation environments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conversion devices are prepared for each imaging device, then interface compatibility is achieved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device is designed with universal functionality to receive and process image data from multiple CoaXPress imaging devices simultaneously. This multi-functional capability eliminates the need for separate conversion devices for each imaging device, achieving interface compatibility while significantly reducing system cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If image data from multiple CoaXPress devices is converted to GigE Vision standard, then compatibility with terminal devices is improved, but communication band limitations cause data transfer delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network as an intermediary between CoaXPress imaging devices and terminal devices. The imaging devices connect to the network, which handles the data transmission, allowing the terminal device to receive image data without direct conversion requirements. This intermediary approach maintains compatibility while reducing data transfer delays.
4Adaptability or versatility
If CoaXPress standard is adopted for small housing imaging devices, then installation flexibility is improved, but communication band is insufficient for multiple devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a direct point-to-point connection model to a network-based multi-dimensional communication architecture. Multiple CoaXPress imaging devices can connect to the network simultaneously, expanding the data transfer capacity beyond the limitations of direct connections while maintaining the installation flexibility of small housing devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Multiplexer according to the present invention includes: an input unit to which a plurality of image signals based on a first data communication standard are input, the image signals being acquired by respective imaging devices; an output unit that outputs an image signal based on a second data communication standard having a data transfer rate lower than that of the first data communication standard; and a storage unit that temporarily buffers the image signals input from the input unit. With such a multiplexer, it is possible to collectively convert the image data acquired by a plurality of imaging devices adopting a certain data communication standard into another data communication standard and suppress the data transfer delay caused by the conversion.