Image-Capturing Device Pixel Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging apparatuses face increased processing time and cost due to the need for temporary storage of image data in frame memory when outputting to multiple destinations, especially as image resolution increases.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus that includes an imager with a two-dimensional array of pixels, an identifier adding unit to assign specific identifiers to pixel signals for different output destinations, and an image processing unit to direct these signals accordingly, eliminating the need for frame memory storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If image data is temporarily stored in frame memory for multiple output destinations, then image data can be processed and output to multiple destinations, but processing time increases and frame memory capacity requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple independent pixel groups, where each pixel group corresponds to a specific output destination. This segmentation allows pixel signals to be directly routed to different outputs without requiring temporary storage in frame memory, thereby reducing processing time while maintaining the capability to output to multiple destinations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of spatial separation by physically arranging pixels into distinct groups that map to different output destinations. This dimensional organization enables direct signal routing paths from specific pixel groups to specific outputs, eliminating the need for time-based sequential processing through frame memory.
2Adaptability or versatility
If image data is temporarily stored in frame memory for multiple output destinations, then image data can be processed and output to multiple destinations, but frame memory capacity requirements increase leading to higher cost
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple independent pixel groups, where each pixel group corresponds to a specific output destination. This segmentation allows pixel signals to be directly routed to different outputs without requiring temporary storage in frame memory, thereby reducing processing time while maintaining the capability to output to multiple destinations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the frame memory component from the system by implementing direct routing from pixel groups to output destinations. This elimination of the frame memory subsystem reduces both the hardware cost and the complexity associated with temporary image data storage.
3Measurement precision
If image resolution increases, then image quality improves, but processing time further increases and frame memory capacity requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple independent pixel groups, where each pixel group corresponds to a specific output destination. This segmentation allows pixel signals to be directly routed to different outputs without requiring temporary storage in frame memory, thereby reducing processing time while maintaining the capability to output to multiple destinations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-organizing pixels into dedicated groups before signal generation. Each pixel group is预先 assigned to a specific output destination, which enables direct routing of high-resolution pixel signals without requiring post-capture processing or temporary storage, thus maintaining fast processing even at high resolutions.
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
This solution reduces processing burden and costs by directly allocating pixel signals to their respective output destinations based on identifiers, minimizing frame delay and data handling, and maintaining efficiency regardless of the number of output destinations.
Implementation Method 1
an imager having a plurality of pixels that are arrayed two-dimensionally and respectively can generate pixel signals
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging apparatus (11) capable of outputting pixel signals to one or more output destinations includes an imager (16) having a plurality of pixels that are arrayed two-dimensionally and respectively can generate pixel signals; an identifier adding unit (17) configured to add an identifier associated with at least one output destination to each of pixel signals of at least a part of pixels among the plurality of pixels and an image processing unit (18) configured to output each of the pixel signals to an output destination that corresponds to an identifier included in each of the pixel signals.