Dynamic Pixel Distribution for Super-Resolution Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current super-resolution image acquisition methods require multiple cameras or image sensors to achieve higher resolution, which is complex and not easily adaptable to diverse user needs.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that adjust the pixel point distribution of a single image sensor to acquire multiple images of the same scene with varying resolution, allowing software processing to fuse these images into a super-resolution image without the need for multiple sensors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple cameras or image sensors are used to achieve higher resolution, then image resolution is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the pixel point distribution of the image sensor adjustable and changeable over time. The image sensor transitions between different pixel distribution states (first distribution and second distribution) to capture multiple images of the same scene. This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single sensor to function effectively as multiple sensors would, achieving super-resolution without increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the pixel point distribution parameter of the image sensor. By changing the spatial arrangement parameters of pixels on the sensor, the system captures images with different sampling patterns. These parameter variations enable the acquisition of complementary information from the same scene, which is then processed to generate high-resolution images without requiring additional sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If pixel point distribution is adjusted to acquire multiple images, then imaging quality is improved, but acquisition time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging qualityVSAvoidacquisition time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by rapidly switching the pixel point distribution between different states and capturing images at each state. This periodic reconfiguration and capture process is designed to occur quickly, acquiring multiple images in succession. The periodic nature of the pixel distribution changes enables systematic collection of complementary image data while maintaining relatively fast acquisition speeds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-planning and pre-configuring the sequence of pixel point distribution changes before image acquisition begins. The different pixel distribution patterns are predetermined, allowing the system to efficiently transition between states without computational delays during the actual capture process. This preparation minimizes acquisition time while ensuring optimal imaging quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10110810B2Super-resolution image acquisition methods and apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.10.23 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US10110810B2 patent drawing
  • US10110810B2 patent drawing
  • US10110810B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present application disclose various super-resolution image acquisition methods and apparatus. One of the super-resolution image acquisition methods comprises: acquiring an image of a to-be-shot scene by an image sensor; changing pixel point distribution of the image sensor at least once; separately acquiring an image of the to-be-shot scene by the image sensor changed each time; and acquiring a super-resolution image of the to-be-shot scene according to the acquired images. According to the embodiments of the present application, by fusing multiple differentiated images of the same scene acquired by a single image sensor in different time periods, a super-resolution image is acquired. The solution is simple and easy to implement, and may better meet users' diversified actual application needs.