Imaging Apparatus Pixel Sensitivity and Filter Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses using solid-state imaging elements sensitive to both visible and near-infrared light face challenges in improving image quality captured solely with near-infrared light, as they often suffer from reduced dispersion but lack effective methods to enhance image clarity and dynamic range.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a solid-state imaging element with specific pixel configurations and color filters that vary in sensitivity across visible and near-infrared wavelengths, utilizing a filter switching unit to select the appropriate filter for image capture, and a processor to determine pixel signals based on object brightness, thereby expanding the dynamic range and improving image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pixels with different sensitivity characteristics are used, then dynamic range is expanded, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different sensitivity characteristics to different pixel regions within the imaging element. Specific pixels are designed with heightened sensitivity to particular wavelength ranges (visible or near-infrared), allowing each pixel to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the sensitivity parameters of different pixels to match imaging conditions. The system can adjust which pixel signals are prioritized based on whether visible light or near-infrared light imaging is required, effectively changing the operational parameters without physical reconfiguration
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 allows for enhanced image quality in near-infrared light capture without degrading visible light image quality, by selectively using pixel signals based on object luminance and employing specific color filter transmittance schemes to control sensitivity, thus improving the dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio.
Implementation Method 1
solid-state imaging element having sensitivity not only for visible light but also for near-infrared light
Implementation Method 2
a visible light cut filter is provided for acquiring an image captured only with near-infrared light on a light entry side of the solid-state imaging element
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a solid-state imaging element including a first pixel and a second pixel, the first pixel being higher in sensitivity than the second pixel in a first wavelength range of visible light, the second pixel being higher in sensitivity than the first pixel in a second wavelength range of visible light, and further the first pixel being higher in sensitivity than the second pixel in a wavelength range of near-infrared light, a first cut filter provided on a light entry side of the solid-state imaging element and configured to cut visible light, and at least one processor or circuit configured to generate an image from pixel signals acquired by the solid-state imaging element, wherein the at least one processor or circuit determines a pixel signal to be used for generating the image, according to brightness of an object.