Imaging Apparatus Global Shutter Readout Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing imaging apparatuses face a delay in updating live view images after still image storage, leading to a higher risk of losing sight of the subject, as the readout time for pixel signals is longer for still image storage compared to live view image display, and existing solutions do not account for the varying readout times between global and rolling shutter drives.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus and method that employs a global reset drive, global shutter drive, first rolling readout drive, rolling shutter drive, and second rolling readout drive to manage exposure and signal readout for each pixel row, allowing for simultaneous or sequential control of exposure ending and signal readout to expedite live view image updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If global shutter drive is used for still image storage, then imaging quality is improved, but readout time becomes longer causing live view image update delay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel rows into multiple groups and processes them separately. During still image capture, different pixel row groups are transferred to different charge holding sections simultaneously, enabling parallel readout operations. This segmentation allows the system to maintain global shutter imaging quality while reducing the total readout time by processing multiple rows concurrently rather than sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary transfer of pixel signals from photoelectric conversion elements to charge holding sections before the actual readout operation begins. By pre-positioning the charges in dedicated holding sections organized in groups, the system prepares the data structure in advance, allowing rapid sequential access during readout without delaying the live view image update after still image capture.
2Loss of information
If all pixel signals are read out sequentially for still image storage, then complete image data is obtained, but readout time increases causing live view image display to pause
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pixel array into multiple pixel row groups, with each group assigned to a separate charge holding section. This segmentation enables the readout circuit to process multiple groups in parallel or rapid succession, completing the readout of all pixel signals faster than sequential processing would allow, thus maintaining data completeness while improving update speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The charge holding sections are designed to serve multiple functions: they can hold charges for global shutter operation, store signals for still image capture, and facilitate rapid readout for live view updates. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware structure to support both high-quality still image acquisition and fast live view refresh without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function.
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 reduces the time required to update live view images after still image storage, thereby minimizing the risk of losing sight of the subject by optimizing the imaging process to synchronize exposure and readout operations across multiple pixel rows.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion element...charges accumulated in the photoelectric conversion elements
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes: an imager that has a plurality of pixels as defined herein, that includes a plurality of pixel rows including the plurality of pixels arranged in one direction, and that discharges charges of the photoelectric conversion element and the charge holder to a charge discharge region of the readout circuit as defined herein; and an imaging controller that performs a global reset drive, a global shutter drive, a first rolling readout drive, a rolling shutter drive and a second rolling readout drive as defined herein, and the imaging controller performs a first imaging control as defined herein.