Image Sensor Rapid Startup Using Binning and Skipping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image sensor systems face challenges in rapidly determining Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) and Automatic Gain Control (AGC) parameters, leading to prolonged startup times for visually appealing imaging, especially at real-time video rates.
Innovation Solution
The method employs an initial fast frame rate and pixel binning and skipping to quickly determine AEC and AGC parameters, which are then used for subsequent normal frame rate imaging, reducing the startup time to approximately 10 milliseconds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional AEC and AGC parameter determination methods are used, then accurate exposure and gain control are achieved, but the startup time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing multiple AEC and AGC parameter sets corresponding to different illumination levels before actual image capture. During startup, the system quickly selects from these pre-prepared parameters based on initial brightness assessment, avoiding time-consuming real-time calculations and achieving rapid startup within 10 milliseconds while maintaining parameter accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by using multiple predetermined exposure time and gain parameter pairs with different brightness levels instead of a single parameter set. The system assesses scene brightness and selects the most appropriate parameter pair from the predetermined sets, enabling fast parameter determination without compromising the accuracy of exposure and gain control.
2Use of energy by moving object
If pixel binning is used to increase light collection, then sensitivity is improved, but resolution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the binning factor adjustable and adaptable rather than fixed. The system dynamically selects the appropriate binning factor (e.g., 2×2, 4×4, or no binning) based on lighting conditions, scene requirements, and performance needs. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize between light collection efficiency and resolution preservation depending on the specific imaging scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by varying the binning factor as a controllable parameter. Different binning factors are applied to different regions or different frames based on local brightness and imaging requirements, allowing flexible optimization of the trade-off between sensitivity enhancement through binning and resolution preservation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for rapidly starting up an imaging system and an imaging system using the method is provided by reducing the time required to acquire the AEC and AGC parameters required for visually appealing imaging. The method employs an initial fast frame rate and binning and skipping to determine AEC and AGC parameters for use in subsequent normal frame rate imaging.