Dual-Mode Image Sensor Signal Acquisition for Noise and Frame Rate Trade-offs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image pickup apparatuses face challenges in reducing noise levels and improving frame rates due to variations in signal reading methods for focus detection, leading to image deterioration and decreased performance.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a dual-mode signal acquisition and processing system, where a first imaging signal is read by adding pixel signals from multiple photoelectric converters in one mode, and a second imaging signal is read independently in another mode, with differential noise reduction processing applied to each, allowing for improved noise management and faster image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pixel signals from multiple photoelectric converters are added together to be read (first mode), then the reading time is reduced and frame rate is improved, but noise levels increase and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image sensor into multiple pixel areas, where some regions read signals in the first mode (adding pixel signals for speed) and other regions read signals in the second mode (reading independently for quality). This spatial segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of both frame rate and image quality by assigning different reading strategies to different regions based on their specific requirements.
2Loss of time
If different signal reading methods are used for different rows depending on focus detection needs, then the reading time is reduced, but noise levels vary and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the signal reading method dependent on the specific row's requirements. Rows designated for focus detection use the second mode (independent reading) while other rows use the first mode (added reading). Additionally, noise reduction processing is selectively applied only to rows read in the second mode, ensuring noise level consistency is maintained where needed while preserving reading speed efficiency overall.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If individual pixel signals are read independently (second mode), then noise levels are reduced and image quality is maintained, but reading time increases and frame rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image sensor into multiple pixel areas, where some regions read signals in the first mode (adding pixel signals for speed) and other regions read signals in the second mode (reading independently for quality). This spatial segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of both frame rate and image quality by assigning different reading strategies to different regions based on their specific requirements.
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 effectively reduces noise levels and enhances image quality while maintaining or improving frame rates, thereby addressing the limitations of previous technologies.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor which includes a plurality of photoelectric converters that correspond to a single microlens
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus (106) includes an acquirer (106a) which acquires a first imaging signal that is read in a first mode from a first pixel area of an image sensor and a second imaging signal that is read in a second mode from a second pixel area of the image sensor, the image sensor including a plurality of photoelectric converters corresponding to a single microlens, and an image processor (106b) which performs noise reduction processing on the first and second imaging signals, the first mode is a mode in which pixel signals of photoelectric converters are added to each other to be read from the image sensor, and the second mode is a mode in which a pixel signal of at least one of the photoelectric converters is read independently as a predetermined signal.