Flicker Detection via Frequency Domain Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image processing systems face challenges in removing flicker caused by indoor light fluctuations, which degrade image quality, and existing methods are inadequate in accurately detecting and correcting flicker.
Innovation Solution
An image processing system comprising active pixels and flicker pixels operating at different readout frequencies, with frequency detectors and analyzers that perform frequency domain transformation and confidence value calculations to detect flicker by identifying dominant frequencies and determining their significance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the integration time is set as an integer multiple of the light source period to remove flicker, then flicker removal is achieved, but the detection accuracy and adaptability to different light conditions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical timing-based flicker removal method (setting integration time as integer multiple of light period) with a frequency domain analysis system. The system uses frequency detectors to transform pixel signals into frequency domain and identify dominant frequencies, then applies adaptive correction based on detected flicker characteristics rather than relying on fixed timing relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts processing parameters based on detected flicker frequency and characteristics. Instead of using a fixed integration time relationship, the system changes its processing approach based on the actual flicker parameters detected through frequency analysis, enabling adaptation to different light sources and conditions.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If dedicated flicker pixels are added to detect flicker frequencies, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing pixel elements serve dual purposes: active pixels capture image information while also contributing to flicker detection through their signal variations. The system processes signals from regular pixel operations to extract both imaging data and flicker characteristics, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing pixel signals and processing infrastructure to perform flicker detection. Rather than requiring external or dedicated detection components, the imaging system's normal operational signals are analyzed to identify flicker frequencies, making the detection capability inherent to the existing system.
3Measurement precision
If multiple readout frequencies are used for active and flicker pixels, then detection precision is improved, but processing time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the imaging signal acquisition and flicker detection processes into a unified workflow. Both active pixel signals and flicker detection signals are read out and processed simultaneously through integrated frequency analysis, eliminating separate processing stages and reducing overall processing time while maintaining detection precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing system includes a plurality of active pixels and a plurality of flicker pixels. The active pixels output active pixel signals at a first readout frequency, and the flicker pixels output flicker pixel signals at a second readout frequency greater than the first readout frequency. A plurality of frequency detectors accumulate the flicker pixel signals and then perform frequency domain transformation of the accumulated flicker pixel signals. A frequency analyzer detects flicker by analyzing the flicker pixel signals which have been transformed into the frequency domain.