Endoscope Imaging Pixel Binning for Depth of Field Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscope imaging systems face challenges in achieving a deep-focus image due to the decrease in depth of field caused by high-resolution imaging elements with small pixel pitches, leading to noise increase and deteriorated image quality when attempting to maintain or increase the F-number.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an imaging apparatus with an observation mode setting section and a control section that allows for variable depth of field control by switching between close and distant observation modes using a pixel binning read process, where the pixel binning read process increases the pixel pitch and thereby the depth of field in distant observation mode, and maintains high resolution in close observation mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of pixels of the imaging element is increased to achieve high-resolution imaging, then the imaging resolution is improved, but the depth of field decreases due to smaller pixel pitch and smaller permissible circle of confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the depth of field adjustable rather than fixed. Through the control section, the system can dynamically change the depth of field based on observation mode (close or distant), allowing the imaging system to adapt between high resolution and deep focus requirements as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the depth of field parameter through control of the imaging section's focus settings. By adjusting the in-focus object plane position and depth of field range based on the selected observation mode, the system resolves the contradiction between fixed high-resolution imaging and variable depth of field requirements
2Manufacturing precision
If the aperture of the optical system is reduced and the F-number is increased to maintain depth of field, then the depth of field is maintained, but the optical system darkens, noise increases, and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the depth of field through focus control rather than relying on fixed aperture settings. This allows maintaining appropriate aperture opening for image quality while achieving deep focus through electronic control of the imaging section's focus parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the depth of field parameter through control of the imaging section's in-focus object plane position, avoiding the need to increase F-number. This maintains optimal aperture settings for image quality while achieving the required depth of field through focus plane adjustment
3Manufacturing precision
If the F-number of the optical system is increased to increase depth of field, then the depth of field increases, but the imaging performance deteriorates due to increased diffraction effect
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls the depth of field through the imaging section's focus settings rather than increasing F-number. This allows maintaining lower F-numbers that minimize diffraction while achieving deep focus through electronic adjustment of the in-focus object plane and depth of field range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the depth of field parameter through control of the imaging section's focus parameters (in-focus object plane position), avoiding the need to increase F-number. This resolves the contradiction by achieving deep focus without the diffraction penalties associated with high F-numbers
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes an imaging section that images an object, an observation mode setting section that sets an observation mode when the imaging section images the object, and a control section that controls an image read mode in which an image is read from the imaging section and a in-focus object plane of the imaging section based on the observation mode set by the observation mode setting section.