Image Sensor Signal Storage for High-Speed Reproduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increase in pixel density in image sensors leads to longer signal transfer times due to fixed signal transfer circuit capacity, hindering high-speed data transfer and system performance, especially during simple reproduction after shooting.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing apparatus with a two-dimensionally arranged image sensor and a signal storing unit, where image signals from all pixels are stored and resized for efficient transfer to a signal processor during simple reproduction mode, utilizing a frame memory to facilitate high-speed data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the number of pixels in the image sensor is increased to achieve high-resolution images, then the image resolution is improved, but the time taken to transfer image signals from all pixels is lengthened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image sensor into multiple regions (first region and second region) with different pixel densities. The first region has a higher pixel density for high-resolution imaging, while the second region has a lower pixel density to reduce the total number of pixels and signal transfer time. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high resolution in critical areas without the penalty of transferring signals from every pixel in the entire sensor array.
2Productivity
If the data transfer speed is increased to improve system performance, then the productivity is improved, but the heat generation in transfer circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing high-speed data transfer only in the first region where high-resolution images are captured, rather than across the entire image sensor. The second region operates at standard transfer speeds. This approach allows the system to achieve high productivity where needed without generating excessive heat across the entire transfer circuit network.
3Productivity
If the data transfer speed is increased to improve system performance, then the productivity is improved, but the power consumption in circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image sensor into regions with different operational requirements. The first region uses high-speed data transfer with increased power consumption to achieve high productivity for high-resolution imaging. The second region uses standard-speed transfer with lower power consumption. This segmentation allows the system to optimize power usage by applying high-power modes only where high resolution is required, rather than across the entire sensor array.
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 significantly reduces the time required for simple reproduction and enhances system performance by enabling high-speed image signal processing and transfer.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor including two-dimensionally arranged pixels each having a photoelectric conversion element
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus comprises an image sensor, a controller, and a signal processor. The image sensor includes pixels each having a photoelectric conversion element and a signal storing unit. When in a simple reproduction mode in which the image signals read out from the image sensor undergo simple reproduction, the controller stores, in the signal storing unit, image signals from all pixels output from the image sensor, converts the size of the image signals stored in the signal storing unit into a size for simple reproduction to transfer the image signals to the signal processor, and upon the simple reproduction starting, the image signals from all pixels stored in the signal storing unit are transferred to the signal processor.