Image Capture Apparatus Concurrent High Resolution Video and Still Image Output
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image capture apparatuses face challenges in capturing high resolution video and still images simultaneously due to the need to switch between pixel mixing modes, leading to suspension of video recording or increased drive frequency of the image processing circuit.
Innovation Solution
An image capture apparatus that generates and outputs first, second, and third pixel mixture signals from a solid-state imaging device, allowing for concurrent acquisition of low resolution video and high resolution still images without increasing the drive frequency, by processing these signals through dedicated image processing units and compression units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pixel mixing mode is used for video recording, then the number of frames per unit time increases, but the resolution decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pixel array into multiple regions (first region, second region, third region) and processes them separately. The first region is processed for video recording with pixel mixing to increase frame rate, while the second and third regions are processed for still image capture with high resolution. This segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of both frame rate and resolution without compromising either aspect.
2Measurement precision
If all pixel readout mode is used for still image capturing, then the resolution is high, but the power consumption increases and the operation speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of reading out all pixels in the array for still image capture, the patent selectively reads out only the necessary pixels from the second and third regions. This partial readout approach maintains high resolution for still images while significantly reducing the number of pixels processed, thereby lowering power consumption and improving operation speed.
3Measurement precision
If mode switching is performed for still image capture during video recording, then high definition still images can be captured, but the video recording is suspended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous video recording by processing different regions of the pixel array simultaneously. While the first region continues to provide video frames at high frame rate, the second and third regions can be processed for still image capture without interrupting the video recording. This parallel processing maintains continuity of the video recording operation while enabling high definition still image capture.
4Productivity
If vertical-horizontal mixed pixel readout mode is used, then the number of frames per unit time increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel array into distinct first, second, and third regions, each with specific readout characteristics. The first region uses mixed pixel readout for high frame rate video, while the second and third regions use targeted readout for still images. This segmentation simplifies the overall device complexity by allowing specialized processing of each region rather than requiring complex switching between different readout modes for the entire array.
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
Enables the output of high resolution video and still images while reducing the number of readout pixels, decreasing power consumption and circuit size, and allowing for still image capture at any time during video recording.
Implementation Method 1
photoelectric conversion element arrays of solid-state imaging devices
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image capture apparatus which allows concurrent output of high resolution video images and high resolution still images even if the number of readout pixels is reduced. In the image capture apparatus, a solid-state imaging device which includes a plurality of pixels disposed in rows and columns, generates: first pixel mixture signals each obtained by mixing pixel signals for a first region including a predetermined number of the pixels; second pixel mixture signals each obtained by mixing pixel signals for a second region in the first region; and third pixel mixture signals each obtained by mixing pixel signals for a third region in the first region, and outputs, for each first region, one of the first pixel mixture signals, at least one of the second pixel mixture signals, and at least one of the third pixel mixture signals.