Image Processing Device Synchronization via Timestamped Metadata
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing systems face synchronization delays and latency issues, particularly in non-real-time environments, leading to poor convergence and degraded performance in recognizing moving objects, especially in biometric applications.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device with a synchronous data processing system and asynchronous image processing system, utilizing timestamped metadata to synchronize and control image acquisition and lighting systems, allowing for robust and efficient image processing without real-time constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If non-real-time software is used for image processing, then system functionality and flexibility are improved, but synchronization accuracy and response time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent processing paths: a synchronous path for time-critical image acquisition and parameter application, and an asynchronous path for flexible AGC algorithm execution. This segmentation allows each path to operate with appropriate timing characteristics, resolving the contradiction between functionality and synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
A timestamp mechanism acts as an intermediary between the asynchronous AGC results and the synchronous image processing path. The timestamp records when parameters were applied, enabling the asynchronous system to provide feedback to the synchronous system without compromising either path's timing requirements.
2Reliability
If delay is added in non-real-time software, then configuration application is ensured, but convergence time and response time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronous system pre-applies configuration parameters to the image sensor and lighting system before the AGC algorithm needs to analyze images. This preliminary action ensures that when the asynchronous AGC algorithm produces results, the parameters are already in effect, eliminating the need for additional delay frames and reducing convergence time.
Solution Approach 2:
The timestamp mechanism provides feedback from the asynchronous AGC system to the synchronous system, allowing the synchronous system to know exactly when parameters were applied and when to expect updated parameters. This feedback loop maintains reliability without requiring time-consuming delay mechanisms.
3Speed
If standard ISP is used, then real-time processing is achieved, but adaptability to non-standard sensors and specific applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a universal timestamp mechanism that works with any image sensor type (standard or non-standard) and any processing path (synchronous or asynchronous). This universal approach allows the system to maintain real-time processing capability while being adaptable to diverse sensors and applications including biometric recognition and QR code reading.
Data Source
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AI summary
It comprises: - an image acquisition system (SA); - a synchronous data processing system (SSY) receiving instructions (CONS), including at least one for image acquisition, and determining, according to at least one of the instructions, control data (PIL) of the acquisition system, said synchronous system including a synchronous timestamping means that timestamps, at the time of acquisition, one of the control data of the acquisition system; - a means of associating one of the time-stamped control data of the image acquisition system with said image (IMG) acquired at the time of image acquisition by adding metadata to said image; - an asynchronous system (SAS) for processing said image (IMG_M) with associated metadata generating and sending instructions (CONS) to the synchronous system (SSY), the image acquisition instruction being determined on the basis of an acquired image (IMG_M) with associated metadata.