Image Sensor Pixel Array Control for Signal-to-Noise Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors with pixel arrangements other than Bayer or QuadBayer require improved data output to match the performance of conventional sensors.
Innovation Solution
A control method for an image sensor with a 2D pixel array that includes minimal repeating units, each comprising color and panchromatic pixels. The method involves controlling exposure to obtain original image data, which includes color and panchromatic components, and outputting target image data accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If an image sensor with non-Bayer/QuadBayer pixel arrangement is used, then the spectral response and luminous flux are improved, but the data output structure does not match back-end algorithms and hardware functions
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented into multiple types of pixels (color pixels and panchromatic pixels) arranged in minimal repeating units. Each pixel type captures different spectral information, and the segmentation allows independent optimization of each pixel's function while maintaining overall system compatibility with back-end processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spectral response parameters of different pixels within the same pixel array. Color pixels have narrow spectral response for specific color channels, while panchromatic pixels have broad spectral response. This parameter differentiation enables improved luminous flux capture while the structured arrangement ensures data output compatibility.
2Measurement precision
If color pixels with narrower spectral response are used, then color accuracy is improved, but the overall luminous flux and signal-to-noise ratio decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges color pixels and panchromatic pixels within the same minimal repeating units, allowing both narrowband color information and broadband luminance information to be captured simultaneously. The panchromatic pixels compensate for the reduced luminous flux of color pixels, improving the overall signal-to-noise ratio while maintaining color accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The minimal repeating unit structure serves multiple functions: it captures color information through color pixels, captures luminance information through panchromatic pixels, and organizes data in a structured format compatible with back-end algorithms. This multi-functionality resolves the trade-off between color accuracy and signal-to-noise ratio.
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
The solution enhances the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by increasing luminous flux and improves the data output structure to match back-end algorithms and hardware functions.
Implementation Method 1
Original image data is obtained by controlling exposure of the 2D pixel array, where the original image data includes color original image data generated by exposure of the color pixels and panchromatic original image data generated by exposure of the panchromatic pixels
Data Source
AI summary
A control method, a camera assembly, and a mobile terminal are provided. The control method includes: obtaining original image data by controlling exposure of the 2D pixel array, where the original image data includes color original image data generated by exposure of the color pixels and panchromatic original image data generated by exposure of the panchromatic pixels; and outputting target image data according to the original image data.