Image Reading Resolution Conversion for Mixed Pixel Pitch Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices face inefficiencies in handling multiple resolutions and require redesigning the optical system when replacing light receiving element arrays with different pixel pitches, leading to increased development steps and costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a resolution conversion unit that can adjust the resolution of image data independently of the optical system, allowing for the use of light receiving element arrays with different pixel pitches without redesign, and optimizing the reading process based on the document size to improve productivity and reduce unnecessary pixel reading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the optical system is redesigned when replacing light receiving element arrays with different pixel pitches, then the manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the device complexity and development costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A resolution conversion unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the light receiving element array and the image processing unit. This unit independently converts the resolution of image data through digital signal processing, eliminating the need for optical system redesign when replacing light receiving element arrays with different pixel pitches. The resolution conversion unit acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between different pixel pitch configurations and maintains consistent image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical adjustment approach with a digital signal processing approach. Instead of physically redesigning the optical system to match different pixel pitches, the invention uses a resolution conversion unit that digitally transforms image data from one resolution to another. This substitution of mechanical optical adjustment with digital processing eliminates the need for optical system redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light receiving element arrays with different pixel pitches are supported without optical redesign, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resolution conversion unit is designed to universally support multiple light receiving element arrays with different pixel pitches through a single unified design. Instead of requiring separate optical systems for different pixel pitches, the resolution conversion unit provides multi-functional capability to handle various resolutions, enabling one device to adapt to different sensor configurations without requiring hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the approach from physical parameter adjustment (optical system redesign) to digital parameter transformation (resolution conversion). By using digital signal processing to transform image data between different resolutions, the system can adapt to different pixel pitch configurations by changing software parameters rather than physical hardware, thereby supporting multiple arrays without increasing structural complexity.
3Productivity
If the reading process is optimized for different document sizes, then the productivity improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reading process is made dynamic and adaptable rather than static. The resolution conversion unit dynamically adjusts the reading process parameters based on the document size and the required output resolution. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize reading speed for different document sizes by intelligently controlling the data processing flow, converting data from the light receiving element array to the appropriate resolution without requiring complex hardware changes.
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 efficient resolution conversion and reduced manufacturing costs by allowing the use of various light receiving element arrays without optical system redesign, while improving reading speed and quality for different document sizes.
Implementation Method 1
multiple light receiving elements arrayed in a main scanning direction, the multiple light receiving elements to perform photoelectrical conversion for corresponding pixels
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading device includes a light receiving array including multiple light receiving elements arrayed in a main scanning direction, the multiple light receiving elements to perform photoelectrical conversion for corresponding pixels and output analog data, respectively; multiple analog-to-digital converters to respectively convert the analog data converted by the multiple light receiving elements to digital data in parallel form; circuitry configured to convert the digital data in parallel form converted by the multiple analog-to-digital converters to first image data in serial form in the main scanning direction and output the first image data having a first resolution; and an image processor to perform an image processing to second image data having a second resolution different from the first resolution.