Image Sensor HDR Capture Single Reset Multi-Scan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HDR imaging techniques face challenges in generating composite images that are not completely aligned due to changes during successive image captures, leading to motion artifacts and delayed processing times.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a single image capture using multiple scans by an image sensor, where one scan represents an underexposed and another an overexposed representation, with data being processed by an image signal processor to generate a High Dynamic Range (HDR) image, allowing for real-time alignment and reduced processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple images are captured successively to generate HDR images, then the dynamic range representation is improved, but motion artifacts occur and alignment is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple exposure representations (underexposed, normally exposed, and overexposed) from a single captured image into a composite HDR image. The image sensor captures light energy and converts it to electrical signals that represent multiple exposure levels simultaneously, which are then processed and combined to generate the final HDR image with improved dynamic range while avoiding motion artifacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional temporal dimension by performing multiple scans (reads) of the image sensor data at different exposure levels within a single capture event. This allows the system to extract multiple exposure representations from the same spatial scene at the same moment in time, eliminating the temporal separation that causes motion artifacts in traditional multi-shot HDR methods.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple images are captured successively to generate HDR images, then the dynamic range representation is improved, but processing time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple exposure representations from a single captured image into one HDR image, eliminating the need to capture and process multiple separate images. This merging approach reduces the total number of images that need to be processed while still achieving the desired dynamic range representation in the final HDR output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs multiple scans and exposure readings during a single capture event, preparing all necessary exposure data in advance before processing begins. This preliminary action of capturing multiple exposure levels simultaneously allows for faster processing compared to sequentially capturing multiple images, as the data is already available and organized for immediate HDR generation.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple scans are performed on the image sensor to capture different exposure levels, then HDR image quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple exposure representations from a single captured image into one HDR image, reducing the need for multiple separate capture devices or complex multi-camera systems. The merging of underexposed, normally exposed, and overexposed data from one image sensor simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining high HDR image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: it captures the scene at multiple exposure levels through multiple scans and converts the captured light energy into electrical signals representing different exposures. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized sensors or cameras, reducing overall system complexity.
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 approach enables the generation of HDR images with improved alignment and reduced processing time, minimizing motion artifacts and enhancing the speed and continuity of image generation.
Implementation Method 1
light energy that is converted into electrical signals (e.g., a voltage) by an image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of generating a high dynamic range image. A single reset of an image sensor may be executed followed by two or more reads of the sensor to retrieve data. These reads of the image sensor may be done prior to a subsequent reset of the sensor. These reads may also be accomplished at predetermined times relative to one another. Data read out during these scans may be deinterleaved by an image signal processor and combined into a high dynamic range image.