Image Sensor Controller Equalizing Pixel Exposure Periods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image sensors face challenges in generating clear images due to unequal exposure time periods across pixel groups, leading to image distortion.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor with a controller that generates a light control signal to ensure equal exposure time periods for all pixel units during image frame generation, using a light-emitting module to control the light exposure, thereby minimizing distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If pixel units are exposed to light continuously during image frame generation, then image coverage is complete, but exposure time periods become unequal across pixel groups causing image distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by controlling the light-emitting module to emit light in multiple discrete periods during image frame generation. The controller divides the exposure into at least two separate light emission periods, allowing pixel groups to be exposed sequentially rather than simultaneously. This periodic illumination approach ensures that each pixel group receives equal exposure time while maintaining complete image coverage, thereby resolving the distortion issue caused by unequal continuous exposure.
2Manufacturing precision
If light is emitted continuously to expose all pixel groups, then image completeness is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements periodic light emission by activating the light-emitting module in discrete intervals corresponding to different pixel group exposures. Instead of continuous illumination, the system emits light in synchronized pulses that match the sequential exposure requirements of different pixel groups. This approach maintains complete image coverage while significantly reducing power consumption by eliminating unnecessary continuous light emission.
3Manufacturing precision
If exposure time is extended to improve image clarity, then image quality improves, but distortion increases due to unequal exposure across pixel groups
Solution Approach 1:
The system resolves the contradiction between image clarity and distortion by implementing periodic exposure control. The controller manages multiple light emission periods where each pixel group is exposed for equal duration in sequence. This ensures that extended exposure time improves image clarity uniformly across all pixel groups while preventing the distortion that would result from unequal exposure timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary planning of exposure timing by pre-determining the sequential exposure schedule for different pixel groups. Before light emission begins, the controller establishes the timing sequence that ensures equal exposure duration for each pixel group. This preliminary action prevents distortion from occurring in the first place while allowing sufficient exposure time for clear image capture.
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 enables the generation of clear images by equalizing exposure time periods across pixel groups, improving image quality and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a light-emitting module configured to generate the light in connection with the light control signal
Implementation Method 2
An image sensor is a semiconductor device which senses light reflected from an object and converts the light into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes a pixel array including a plurality of pixel units, and a controller configured to generate a light control signal for controlling light reflected from an object to expose the plurality of pixel units to the light at least twice during generation of an image frame.