Image Sensor Region Division for Multi-Mode Subject Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic apparatuses with stacked image sensors have limited usability as they primarily capture images on a single-block basis, lacking the capability to generate multiple types of images of the same subject.
Innovation Solution
An electronic apparatus is designed with a drive control unit, a division unit, and an image generation unit. The division unit divides the image capture region of the image sensor into at least two regions, and the image generation unit captures images of an identical subject in each region to generate multiple types of images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the image sensor captures images on a single-block basis, then the device structure remains simple, but the usability and functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image sensor into multiple independent blocks (first block and second block), each capable of capturing images independently. This segmentation allows the sensor to capture multiple types of images (e.g., color images and depth images) simultaneously by assigning different capture functions to different blocks, thereby improving usability without requiring entirely separate imaging systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of images are captured simultaneously, then the functionality is enhanced, but the image capture speed may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the image sensor into multiple blocks that operate independently and in parallel, the system can capture multiple types of images simultaneously without sequential processing delays. Each block processes its assigned imaging task concurrently, maintaining high capture speed while enhancing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension by dividing the sensor into distinct physical blocks that can be positioned to capture different image types (e.g., visible light and infrared) simultaneously. This spatial separation enables parallel image capture across different spectral or functional dimensions, preventing speed reduction despite enhanced functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the image capture region is divided into multiple regions, then multiple image types can be generated, but the complexity of control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple image capture functions into a single integrated image sensor device with divided blocks. This merging approach allows the system to generate multiple image types (color, depth, infrared, etc.) from one unified device rather than requiring separate cameras or sensors for each function, thereby managing control complexity while enhancing image generation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
To generate multiple types of images of the same subject, an electronic apparatus includes a drive control unit that controls the drive of an image sensor, a division unit that divides an image capture region of the image sensor into at least first and second regions, and an image generation unit that generates a first image by capturing an image of the same subject in the first region and generates a second image by capturing an image of the same subject in the second region.