Imaging Device Parallel Signal Processing for Live View
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices require waiting for signals from all pixels to generate captured image data, leading to longer processing times and inability to display post-view or live view images during data generation.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a sensor unit, storage unit, and dual output terminals that allows selective output of signals from specific pixel rows and divided image groups, enabling parallel processing and faster data generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If all pixel signals are read out and processed sequentially to generate captured image data, then complete image data is generated, but the processing time becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging signals from all pixels are divided into multiple groups based on pixel row positions. Each group is processed and output independently through separate output terminals, allowing parallel processing of different image portions rather than sequential processing of all pixels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of parallel processing by utilizing multiple output terminals (first and second output terminals) to simultaneously output different groups of imaging signals. This transforms the single-channel sequential processing into multi-channel parallel processing, reducing overall processing time while maintaining complete image data generation
2Manufacturing precision
If all pixel signals must be read out before displaying any image, then complete image data is ensured, but no live view or post-view display can be shown during processing
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging signals are segmented into multiple groups corresponding to different pixel row ranges. These groups are independently processed and can be displayed separately, enabling live view display of processed groups while other groups are still being processed, thus improving display speed without compromising complete image data generation
Solution Approach 2:
Certain groups of imaging signals are processed and prepared for display in advance before all pixels have been fully read out. This preliminary processing allows live view images to be displayed during the ongoing data acquisition and processing phase, rather than waiting for complete data collection
3Measurement precision
If sequential processing of all image signals is performed, then accurate captured image data is generated, but the time from imaging to completion becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
Image signals are divided into multiple groups based on pixel row positions, with each group processed independently through separate processing paths. This segmentation enables parallel processing of different image portions, maintaining processing accuracy while reducing the total time from imaging to completion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a parallel processing dimension by using multiple processing units operating simultaneously on different signal groups. This transforms the time-consuming sequential processing into concurrent parallel processing, achieving both accuracy and speed improvement
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes: an imaging element including a sensor unit provided with a light reception surface on which a plurality of pixel rows including a plurality of pixels arranged in a row direction are arranged in a column direction orthogonal to the row direction, a storage unit that stores imaging signals read out from all of the pixels included in the plurality of pixel rows, a first output terminal that outputs the imaging signal stored in the storage unit, and a second output terminal that outputs the imaging signal stored in the storage unit; an imaging control unit as defined herein; an output control unit that performs a first output control and a second output control as defined herein; a first image processing unit as defined herein; and a second image processing unit as defined herein.