Image Sensor Synchronization via Dedicated Interface Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with multiple image sensors face synchronization issues due to differing timing for setting changes, such as exposure time, leading to desynchronization between the sensors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a designated interface for signal transmission between first and second image sensors, allowing the first sensor to shift states and transmit signals to the second sensor, enabling synchronized detection and data acquisition based on these signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If settings for two or more image sensors are changed independently, then each sensor can be optimized for its specific function, but synchronization between the sensors becomes out of order
Solution Approach 1:
A synchronization signal is introduced as an intermediary between the first and second image sensors. The synchronization signal includes a first signal transmitted from the first image sensor to the second image sensor, and a second signal transmitted from the second image sensor to the first image sensor. These signals coordinate the exposure and readout timing of both sensors, ensuring they remain synchronized even when settings are changed independently for optimization.
2Manufacturing precision
If exposure time settings are changed for image sensors, then image quality can be optimized for different lighting conditions, but the time points for command transmission to different sensors become different
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization signal is transmitted in advance to coordinate exposure timing. The first image sensor transmits a first synchronization signal to the second image sensor before the exposure period begins, and the second image sensor transmits a second synchronization signal to the first image sensor. This preliminary action ensures both sensors start exposure at the same time, even when different exposure durations are required for optimal image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization mechanism uses feedback through bidirectional signal transmission. The first image sensor receives a second signal from the second image sensor confirming its readiness, and the second image sensor receives a first signal from the first image sensor. This feedback loop ensures both sensors are synchronized before exposure begins, eliminating timing differences in command execution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image sensors are used for depth calculation and image synthesis, then functional capabilities are enhanced, but synchronization control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization signal serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an exposure start trigger, a readout coordination signal, and a timing reference for both image sensors. By using a universal synchronization mechanism that handles multiple control functions, the system enhances camera capabilities (depth calculation, image synthesis) without proportionally increasing synchronization control 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 ensures accurate synchronization of exposure time and readout timing between multiple image sensors, improving the overall performance and image quality captured by the electronic device.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second image sensors are configured to detect light outside the electronic device through a plurality of first pixels contained in the first image sensor and a plurality of second pixels contained in the second image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device according to various embodiments comprises a first image sensor and a second image sensor which is electrically connected to the first image sensor by means of one designated interface. The second image sensor can be configured so as to: receive a first signal, for shifting from a first state to a second state, from the first image sensor; while the first image sensor detects light outside the electronic device by means of a plurality of first pixels, detect the light by means of a plurality of second pixels on the basis of the first signal; receive a second signal, for shifting from the second state to the first state, from the first image sensor; and, while the first image sensor obtains first data corresponding to the light detected by means of the plurality of first pixels, obtain second data corresponding to the light detected by means of the plurality of second pixels on the basis of the second signal.