Imaging Apparatus Flicker Detection via Alternating Frame Rates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses face challenges in distinguishing and detecting flickers of light sources with different frequencies, such as 50-Hz and 60-Hz flickers, without changing the exposure time, leading to potential image quality deterioration.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus that alternately performs imaging operations at different frame rates, using a flicker detection unit to differentiate between flickers based on captured image signals obtained at various frame rates, allowing for detection without altering the exposure time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the exposure time is changed to detect flicker, then flicker detection capability is improved, but the quality of the display image deteriorates and the system process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection process into two separate operational modes: a detection mode where exposure time is varied to detect flicker, and a normal display mode where exposure time remains constant to maintain image quality. This segmentation allows the system to perform flicker detection without compromising the quality of the displayed images.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs flicker detection in advance by capturing a series of images with varying exposure times before normal display operations begin. The flicker detection unit analyzes these pre-captured images to determine the presence and characteristics of flicker, allowing subsequent display operations to proceed with optimized, constant exposure settings.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the exposure time is changed to detect flicker, then flicker detection capability is improved, but the system process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flicker detection function with the existing image capture and processing system. The imaging element, signal processing unit, and display control work together in an integrated manner, where the same hardware components serve both normal imaging and flicker detection purposes, avoiding the need for separate dedicated detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own imaging resources (imaging element, signal processing capabilities) to perform self-diagnosis for flicker detection. Rather than requiring external detection devices, the imaging apparatus leverages its inherent functions to detect and adapt to flicker conditions in the imaging environment.
3Manufacturing precision
If the exposure time is maintained constant to prevent image quality deterioration, then display image quality is improved, but the ability to distinguish and detect different flicker frequencies is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic variation of exposure time specifically for detection purposes, capturing images at multiple exposure intervals (e.g., short, medium, long exposure times) in sequence. By analyzing the brightness variations across these periodically varied exposures, the system can identify flicker patterns and frequencies without maintaining constant exposure during normal display operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic exposure time adjustment during the detection phase, where the exposure time is varied according to a predetermined pattern to probe for flicker characteristics. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to different flicker frequencies by adjusting the detection sequence, while the actual display operations use static, optimized exposure settings for quality maintenance.
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
Enables the accurate detection of flickers with different frequencies, improving image quality by adjusting frame rates and shutter speeds accordingly without compromising exposure time.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging element that captures an image of an object using a plurality of pixels which convert light into an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes: an imaging element; an imaging element driving unit that directs the imaging element to alternately perform imaging operations at a first frame rate and a second frame rate being different from the first frame rate; and a flicker detection unit that detects whether a first flicker of a light source with a first frequency is present and whether a second flicker of a light source with a second frequency is present, based on a captured image signal obtained by an imaging operation at the first frame rate, a captured image signal obtained by an imaging operation at the second frame rate following the imaging operation at the first frame rate and a captured image signal obtained by an another imaging operation at the first frame rate or the second frame rate, wherein the first frame rate and the second frame rate are as defined herein.