Image Sensor Line Buffer Reduction via Segmented Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for correcting lens distortion in digital images require a large number of line buffers, leading to increased power consumption, die size, and system cost, which is not suitable for real-time applications.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor apparatus with a customized color filter array and processor that decomposes the distortion model into vertical and horizontal components, allowing for automatic correction of lens distortion at capture time using a custom-designed color filter array to reduce or eliminate the need for line buffers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional lens distortion correction methods are used, then distortion-free images can be achieved, but a large number of line buffers are required, leading to increased power consumption, die size, and system cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lens distortion correction process into two independent components: radial distortion correction and tangential distortion correction. By segmenting the correction algorithm, the system can apply each correction type separately, reducing the computational complexity and memory buffer requirements compared to applying a comprehensive correction model all at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary distortion parameter estimation during the image capture phase using the distortion correction circuit. By pre-calculating and storing distortion parameters in memory before full image processing, the system avoids the need for large line buffers during subsequent processing stages, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining correction accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If traditional lens distortion correction methods are used, then distortion-free images can be achieved, but a large number of line buffers are required, increasing die size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the distortion correction into radial and tangential components that can be processed independently with minimal buffer requirements. This segmentation allows the system to correct distortion using small, localized buffer areas rather than requiring large line buffers across the entire image sensor array, thereby reducing die size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical approach of using large physical line buffers with a circuit-based distortion correction unit that performs real-time correction. By substituting the mechanical buffer system with an electronic correction circuit, the system achieves distortion-free images without the die area overhead associated with large buffer memory structures.
3Measurement precision
If traditional lens distortion correction methods are used, then distortion-free images can be achieved, but a large number of line buffers are required, increasing system cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the distortion correction system into modular components: a distortion correction circuit for parameter estimation, a separate processing unit for applying corrections, and minimal buffer memory. This segmentation simplifies the overall system architecture compared to traditional approaches requiring large integrated buffer systems, thereby reducing system complexity and cost while maintaining correction accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service distortion correction system where the distortion correction circuit automatically estimates parameters and applies corrections without requiring complex external buffer management systems. The system serves its own distortion correction needs through integrated circuitry, eliminating the need for complex, costly buffer management infrastructure.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
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AI summary
An image sensor apparatus is disclosed. The image sensor apparatus includes an image sensor for generating image data corresponding to an optical image. The image sensor apparatus also includes a color filter customized for a lens distortion model. A processor processes the image data with a plurality of distortion correction routines to generate a digital image.