Electrochromic Switchable Pixel Demosaicing for Reduced Signal Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing demosaicing methods for image sensors result in reduced image quality and resolution due to signal loss during the reconstruction process.
Innovation Solution
A demosaicing device and method utilizing switchable pixels with an electrochromic layer that can switch between clear and colored states, allowing simultaneous capture of panchromatic and chromatic images by the same pixel array, followed by weighted averaging, signal subtraction, and fusion processes to generate high-resolution demosaiced images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional demosaicing methods are used to reconstruct images from pixel arrays, then the demosaicing process can be performed, but image quality and resolution are reduced due to signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array dynamically switches between clear state and color state using electrochromic layers, allowing the same physical pixels to serve different functions (panchromatic or chromatic) based on operational requirements, thereby reducing signal loss and improving image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The optical properties of the pixel array are changed by adjusting the state of electrochromic layers (clear or colored), enabling flexible control over light transmission and color filtering characteristics to optimize both panchromatic and chromatic image capture
2Loss of information
If multiple pixel arrays are used to capture both panchromatic and chromic images, then complete image data can be captured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same pixel array is designed to perform multiple functions by switching the state of electrochromic layers in different pixels, enabling both panchromatic and chromatic image capture without requiring separate dedicated pixel arrays for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel array is segmented into switchable pixels with electrochromic layers and clear pixels, where each segment can be independently controlled to be in clear state or color state, allowing flexible configuration for different imaging modes
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
The solution enables high-resolution image reconstruction with reduced signal loss by simplifying operations and improving image quality through the use of switchable pixels in the same pixel array.
Implementation Method 1
The switchable pixel includes a first photodiode and an electrochromic layer above the first photodiode. When the electrochromic layer is unbiased, the switchable pixel and the clear pixel are under a clear state. When the electrochromic layer is biased, the switchable pixel is under a color state
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides a demosaicing device and a demosaicing method for image sensor. The method includes capturing a panchromatic image by using a pixel array including switchable pixels and clear pixels, where the panchromatic image is captured when the switchable pixels and the clear pixels are under a clear state. The method includes capturing a chromic image by using the pixel array when the switchable pixels are under a color state and the clear pixels are under the clear state. The method includes performing a weighted average calculation and a signal subtraction on the chromic image and the panchromatic image to generate first resolution chromic images. A resolution of the first resolution chromic images is the same as a resolution of the panchromatic image and the chromic image. The method includes fusing the first resolution chromic images with the panchromatic image to generate demosaiced chromic images.