Dynamic Pixel Group Selection for Ranging Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices face challenges in achieving accurate ranging, particularly when dealing with dynamically moving objects or changing imaging areas, due to differences between object images used for detecting ranging regions and actual ranging, leading to insufficient accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device performs a first readout operation for imaging signals from a first pixel group, followed by a second readout operation for ranging signals from a second pixel group, with the third pixel group being reset during the period between first pixel group resets, allowing for selection of the second pixel group based on the imaging signal for improved ranging accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pixels to be reduced are fixed for readout operations, then the readout process is simple and efficient, but ranging information cannot be obtained on desired regions resulting in insufficient ranging accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pixel group selection dynamic rather than fixed. The third pixel group is selected based on the imaging signal from the first readout operation, allowing the ranging region to adapt to the actual imaged content. This dynamic selection ensures that ranging is performed on relevant regions while maintaining readout efficiency through the structured multi-group pixel architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of pixel group selection from static to variable. By selecting the second pixel group from the third pixel group based on the imaging signal, the system adjusts which pixels are used for ranging according to the actual imaging content, thereby improving ranging accuracy without sacrificing readout efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If ranging is performed on detected objects in a static image, then ranging accuracy is sufficient for stationary objects, but large differences occur between object images in ranging region detection and actual ranging when objects move or imaging area changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the first readout operation to acquire imaging signals before selecting the pixel group for ranging. This allows the system to first determine what is actually imaged, then select the appropriate third pixel group for ranging based on that information. This preliminary imaging step ensures that subsequent ranging is performed on the correct, dynamically determined region, accommodating moving objects and changing imaging areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the imaging signal from the first readout operation to inform the selection of the third pixel group for ranging. The imaging content feeds back into the pixel selection process, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to actual imaging conditions. This feedback mechanism ensures ranging accuracy is maintained for both stationary and moving objects by continuously aligning the ranging region with the actual imaged content.
3Reliability
If the third pixel group is reset during the period between first pixel group resets, then ranging can be performed with updated pixel states, but the readout sequence becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pixel array into multiple groups (first, second, and third pixel groups) with different functions and readout timings. The third pixel group is specifically designated for ranging and is reset during the period between first pixel group resets. This segmentation allows independent control and optimization of each pixel group's operation, managing complexity through functional division while ensuring reliable pixel states for ranging.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a plurality of pixels each of which outputs at least one of an imaging signal and a ranging signal and performs a first readout operation that reads the imaging signal from a first pixel group of the plurality of pixels, and a second readout operation that, after the first readout operation and before a readout operation for next acquiring the imaging signal, reads the ranging signal from a second pixel group of the plurality of pixels. In the first readout operation, the imaging signal is not read from a third pixel group of the plurality of pixels, in a period from a reset of the first pixel group to a next reset of the first pixel group, the third pixel group is reset, and the second pixel group is selected from the third pixel group based on the imaging signal read by the first readout operation.