Imaging Apparatus Hardware Software Image Processing Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
High sensitivity in imaging devices leads to an increase in defective pixels, causing noticeable image degradation due to replacement methods, which existing hardware-based image processing techniques struggle to address without compromising frame rate.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a dual processing system, utilizing hardware-based and software-based image processing units, where the image-processing switching unit selects between them based on sensitivity levels and light detection, allowing for sensitivity adjustment and optimal pixel correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If hardware-based image processing is used to maintain frame rate, then processing speed is improved, but image precision deteriorates due to defective pixel replacement artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between hardware-based and software-based image processing methods based on the detected number of defective pixels. When defective pixels exceed a threshold, the system transitions from hardware processing to software processing, allowing adaptive optimization of both processing speed and image precision under different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the processing method parameter based on the defective pixel count. By monitoring the number of defective pixels and adjusting the processing approach (hardware vs. software), the system optimizes the balance between processing speed and image quality according to actual imaging conditions.
2Measurement precision
If sensitivity of imaging device is increased to capture more light, then light detection capability is improved, but number of defective pixels increases causing image degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful effect of increased defective pixels (which occurs when sensitivity is increased) into a controllable parameter. By detecting the number of defective pixels and switching to software-based processing when necessary, the system transforms what was previously an unavoidable degradation into a manageable condition that can be compensated through method switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the light detection unit monitors imaging conditions and the system adjusts the processing method based on the detected number of defective pixels. This closed-loop control allows the system to respond to changes in sensitivity and defective pixel count, maintaining image quality despite variations in imaging conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus capable of capturing a moving image with an imaging device is equipped with a first image-processing device that uses hardware to process images captured by the imaging device and a second image-processing device that processes captured images with software. The imaging apparatus includes an image-processing switching device that selectively operates one of either the first image-processing device or the second image-processing device. The imaging apparatus includes a light-detection device that detects the amount of light received by the imaging device and a sensitivity adjustment device that increases the sensitivity of the imaging device as the amount of light decreases. The image-processing switching device operates the first image-processing device when the sensitivity is lower than a predetermined value and operates the second image-processing device when the sensitivity is higher than the predetermined value.