Solid-State Imaging Device Pixel Signal Processing Bit Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid-state imaging devices face challenges in efficiently outputting pixel data with varying numbers of pixels to accommodate different operation modes in imaging systems, requiring trade-offs between image quality and real-time performance, and existing solutions do not effectively manage bit reduction for optimal data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device is configured with a pixel signal-processing unit that outputs total and reduced pixel signals, along with a difference calculation and bit reduction unit to generate digital values, allowing for flexible bit reduction and efficient data transmission based on operation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If pixel data with all pixels is output to ensure image quality, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to larger data transmission volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments pixel data into two categories: high-precision data for still image capture and reduced-precision data for moving image capture. The pixel signal processing unit selectively outputs pixel signals with different bit depths based on the capture mode, dividing the data stream to optimize for either quality or speed depending on the application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic bit depth adjustment where the precision of pixel data output is changed based on real-time operating conditions. The pixel signal processing unit dynamically switches between outputting full-precision pixel signals for still images and reduced-precision signals for moving images, adapting to different performance requirements
2Productivity
If pixel addition or thinning-out is performed to reduce data volume for real-time performance, then loss of time is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to reduced pixel data quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different quality levels to different operational contexts rather than uniformly reducing all pixel data. The pixel signal processing unit maintains high precision for still image capture while applying reduced precision only when moving image capture is detected, allowing real-time performance improvement without sacrificing quality when it matters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the bit depth parameter of pixel data based on the operating mode. The pixel signal processing unit outputs pixel signals with a reduced number of bits for moving image capture modes, dynamically adjusting the data precision parameter to balance real-time performance requirements with acceptable image quality
3Loss of substance
If the number of bits of pixel data is reduced for efficient transmission, then loss of substance is reduced, but loss of information increases due to reduced data precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies bit reduction selectively rather than universally. The pixel signal processing unit outputs pixel signals with reduced bits only for moving image capture where some information loss is acceptable for real-time performance, while maintaining full precision for still images where information integrity is critical
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the bit depth parameter of pixel data based on capture mode detection. The pixel signal processing unit adjusts the number of bits in pixel signals according to whether still image or moving image capture is performed, optimizing the balance between data volume and information preservation for each scenario
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 configuration enables the device to output pixel data with reduced bit numbers, optimizing data transmission and supporting real-time performance and image quality requirements across different operation modes.
Implementation Method 1
signal charges generated by a photoelectric conversion unit such as a photodiode provided in a pixel on which light is incident
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state imaging device includes a pixel signal-processing unit which includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a two-dimensional matrix, wherein the pixel signal-processing unit outputs an total pixel signal while outputting a reduced pixel signal; a difference calculation unit which outputs a digital value obtained by calculating a difference between a digital value indicating a magnitude of the total pixel signal and a digital value indicating a magnitude of the reduced pixel signal; and a bit number reduction unit which reduces the number of bits of either the digital value obtained by calculating the difference, or the digital value indicating the magnitude of the total pixel signal, and outputs a digital value whose number of bits is reduced, wherein the solid-state imaging device outputs the digital value corresponding to the total pixel signal and the digital value indicating the magnitude of the reduced pixel signal.