Dual Image Sensor Parameter Encoding for Timing Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in quickly and accurately synchronizing multiple image sensors for efficient image capture and processing, which affects user experience.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a first image sensor that receives parameter information from a processor, encodes it, and transmits it to a second image sensor through different interfaces, allowing synchronization of operation timing and field of view between the sensors, which are housed in separate chips.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple image sensors are used for image capture, then image capture efficiency and quality are improved, but synchronization accuracy and timing coordination deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage capture efficiencyVSAvoidsynchronization accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the synchronization task into two parts: the first image sensor encodes its parameter information locally, and the second image sensor receives this encoded information through a dedicated interface. This segmentation allows each sensor to operate semi-independently while maintaining synchronization, resolving the contradiction between using multiple sensors and achieving accurate timing coordination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an encoded parameter information transmission mechanism as an intermediary between the first and second image sensors. The first sensor encodes its parameters, transmits them through a dedicated interface, and the second sensor decodes and uses this information for synchronization. This intermediary approach enables accurate timing coordination while maintaining the benefits of multiple independent sensors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If parameter information is transmitted between image sensors, then operation timing synchronization is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperation timing synchronizationVSAvoidinterface and encoding complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first image sensor performs self-service by encoding its own parameter information locally using its own encoder, rather than relying on the processor or external systems. This self-encoding capability reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining reliable synchronization, as each sensor contributes to the synchronization process independently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The first image sensor serves multiple functions: it captures images, encodes its parameter information, and transmits this information to the second sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated synchronization hardware, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable timing synchronization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260011106A1Image sensor, electronic apparatus including the same and control method thereof

Publication Date: 2026.01.08 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

Provided is a first image sensor that includes a first interface configured to receive first parameter information from a processor, an encoder configured to encode the first parameter information, and a second interface configured to transmit the encoded first parameter information to a second image sensor. The first image sensor provides a first field of view (FOV) and the second image sensor provides a second FOV. The processor is included in a first chip and the second image sensor is included in a second chip.