Camera Module Signal Conversion for Color Filter Pattern Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensing systems require redesign of the image signal processor when changing color filters, leading to inefficiencies and increased development costs.
Innovation Solution
An image sensing system that includes a camera module with an image sensor and an application processor, where the camera module features a pixel array with color filters of a first pattern, and converters to transform the image signal into different patterns, allowing the application processor to perform image processing without needing redesign when the color filter pattern changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the color filter pattern in the pixel array is changed, then the image sensor can capture different color information, but the application processor must be redesigned to process the new signal pattern
Solution Approach 1:
An image signal processor is introduced as an intermediary component between the image sensor and application processor. This mediator converts image signal patterns from different color filter arrangements (e.g., Bayer, RGBW, FM-Mosaic) into a standardized pattern that the application processor can process uniformly, eliminating the need to redesign the application processor when color filter patterns change
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the signal pattern parameter through software-based conversion in the image signal processor rather than hardware redesign. By dynamically adjusting signal processing parameters and conversion algorithms, the system adapts to different color filter patterns while maintaining a fixed application processor architecture
2Reliability
If the color filter pattern is changed to improve image quality, then better color information is captured, but development costs increase due to processor redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The image signal processor serves as a cost-effective intermediary that handles pattern conversion through software algorithms rather than expensive hardware redesign. This approach allows multiple color filter patterns to be supported with a single application processor, significantly reducing development costs while maintaining image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The image signal processor is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple color filter patterns (Bayer, RGBW, FM-Mosaic, etc.) through a single device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate processors for different patterns, reducing overall system cost and simplifying manufacturing
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed application processor design is used, then development costs are reduced, but it cannot process different color filter patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The image signal processor acts as an adaptable intermediary layer that provides pattern conversion functionality between the image sensor and the fixed application processor. This mediator enables the system to support multiple color filter patterns without requiring changes to the application processor hardware or firmware
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the image processing function into two parts: pattern-specific conversion handled by the image signal processor, and universal image processing handled by the application processor. This segmentation allows the application processor to remain fixed while the image signal processor adapts to different color filter patterns
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
Enables image processing without redesigning the application processor, even when the pixel array's color filter pattern is altered, improving flexibility and reducing development costs.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the pixels may include, for example, a photodiode (PD). The photodiode may serve to convert incident light into an electrical signal.
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensing system includes a camera module and an application processor. The camera module includes: an image sensor including a pixel array, the pixel array including color filters having a first pattern, the image sensor being configured to sense light incident on the pixel array to generate a first pattern image signal having the first pattern; a first converter configured to convert the first pattern image signal into a second pattern image signal having a second pattern different from the first pattern; and a second converter configured to convert the second pattern image signal into a third pattern image signal having a third pattern different from the first pattern and the second pattern. The application processor is configured to perform image processing on the third pattern image signal.