Imaging Device Synchronization Intermediate Accumulation Times
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices that capture both motion and static images using a single camera face issues with synchronization, leading to unnatural object motion during video reproduction due to mismatched accumulation periods of image signals from different photoelectric conversion units, resulting in incorrect object positioning and perceived missing frames.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a pixel array and scanning unit that synchronizes the intermediate times of accumulation periods for two photoelectric conversion units, allowing for synchronized readout of image signals and generation of images with matched accumulation periods, enabling proper correction and smooth video reproduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the accumulation periods of two photoelectric conversion units are synchronized by matching ending times, then both signals can be captured simultaneously, but the intermediate times differ causing different object positions and unnatural motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the synchronization parameter from matching ending times to matching intermediate times of accumulation periods. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by ensuring that both photoelectric conversion units capture images at the same temporal reference point, maintaining object position consistency while still enabling simultaneous capture of both signals.
2Reliability
If frame images from one signal are replaced with frame images from the other signal, then correction can be attempted, but unnatural motion occurs due to missing frames
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by synchronizing the accumulation periods before image generation and replacement occurs. By matching the intermediate times in advance, the system ensures that object positions are consistent across both signals, eliminating the need for corrective frame replacement and preventing unnatural motion artifacts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two photoelectric conversion units with different light receiving efficiencies are used, then diverse image signals can be captured, but synchronization issues arise leading to incorrect object positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the synchronization parameter from ending time alignment to intermediate time alignment of accumulation periods. This allows the system to maintain object position accuracy despite using photoelectric conversion units with different light receiving efficiencies, as the synchronization is now based on a temporal reference point that is independent of the units' operational characteristics.
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 solution ensures accurate synchronization of image signals from different photoelectric conversion units, preventing unnatural object motion and allowing for high-quality image reproduction by matching the intermediate times of accumulation periods, thereby enhancing the quality of captured and reproduced images.
Implementation Method 1
a pixel array including a pixel having a first photoelectric conversion unit and a second photoelectric conversion unit
Data Source
AI summary
According to the present invention, an imaging device and a reproducing device that allow for high quality reproduction of images generated by using two image signals having different lengths of accumulation periods output form a single imaging element are provided. A solid state imaging device of the invention includes a pixel array including a pixel having first and second photoelectric conversion units; a scanning unit that drives the pixel such that an accumulation period of an intermediate time of the first photoelectric conversion unit matches an intermediate time of an accumulation period of the second photoelectric conversion unit; a readout unit that reads out a first image signal from the first photoelectric conversion unit and reads out a second image signal from the second photoelectric conversion unit; and a generating unit that generates images by using the first and second image signals whose accumulation periods have the matched intermediate time.