Imaging Device Temporal Multiplexing Color 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging devices face challenges in producing high-resolution color images with reduced color artifacts and simplifying the process of creating three-dimensional color images, due to limitations in time-of-flight measurements, pixel size, resolution, power consumption, and complex evaluation circuits and algorithms.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device employs an image sensor circuit with pixel elements that receive electromagnetic waves of different wavelengths during separate time intervals, allowing an image processing circuit to produce color images based on pixel image data from each wavelength, thereby eliminating the need for color filters and reducing pixel size, and uses a modulation control signal to generate modulated light for three-dimensional image production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If color filters are used in image sensors, then color information can be captured, but pixel resolution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes color filters from the image sensor array, extracting the color information capture function from the pixel level and implementing it through temporal multiplexing. Each pixel sequentially receives different wavelength light during different time intervals, eliminating the need for color filters while maintaining full pixel resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by sequentially illuminating each pixel with different wavelengths of light in time intervals. The image sensor circuit receives electromagnetic waves of different wavelengths during separate time intervals, creating a temporal sequence that enables color information capture without spatial compromise.
2Measurement precision
If time-of-flight measurements are used for 3D imaging, then depth information can be obtained, but resolution and pixel size are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges color imaging and time-of-flight 3D imaging functions into a single integrated system. The same image sensor circuit that captures color information through temporal multiplexing also performs TOF measurements, combining multiple functions without requiring separate sensors that would reduce resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor circuit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a color imaging device through sequential wavelength reception and as a TOF measurement device for 3D imaging. This universal approach eliminates the need for dedicated separate systems, thereby maintaining high resolution while achieving both color and depth information.
3Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods are used, then color images can be produced, but complex evaluation circuits and algorithms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by having the image sensor circuit directly capture color information through its inherent temporal multiplexing capability, eliminating the need for complex external evaluation circuits. The sensor itself performs the color separation function through sequential wavelength reception, reducing system complexity.
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 enhances pixel resolution, simplifies the production of three-dimensional color images, reduces color artifacts, and minimizes errors by using successive illumination with different colors and modulated light, resulting in improved image quality and reduced noise.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnetic waves having the first wavelength are emitted by a light emitting device and reflected by an object
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic waves having the first wavelength are emitted by a light emitting device and reflected by an object
Implementation Method 3
The pixel element is configured to receive during a first receiving time interval electromagnetic waves having a first wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes an image sensor circuit including a pixel element. The pixel element is configured to receive during a first receiving time interval electromagnetic waves having a first wavelength, and to receive during a subsequent second receiving time interval electromagnetic waves having a second wavelength. The imaging device includes an image processing circuit configured to produce a color image of the object based on a first pixel image data and a second pixel image data. The first pixel image data is based on the electromagnetic waves having the first wavelength received by the pixel element during the first receiving time interval. The second pixel image data is based on the electromagnetic waves having the second wavelength received by the pixel element during the second receiving time interval.