Solid State Imaging Device Pixel-Level Signal Counting Without Frame Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid state imaging devices require frame memories to acquire desired images, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming, especially when producing black-subtracted images or motion blurs.
Innovation Solution
A solid state imaging device that generates pulses based on photon reception frequency, uses a count unit to count signals, and a processing unit to combine image signals with applied gains, allowing for the production of black-subtracted images and motion blurs without frame memory by setting initial values for counters based on exposure ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a frame memory is used to store acquired images for processing, then image composition operations (black-subtraction, motion blur) can be performed, but the device complexity increases and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the image storage function from a separate frame memory component and integrates it directly into the pixel structure. Each pixel now includes a small storage unit that holds the acquired image data locally, eliminating the need for a large external frame memory while maintaining the capability to perform image composition operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the storage unit is embedded within each pixel unit. This nesting allows the storage function to be integrated at the pixel level, reducing overall device complexity while preserving image composition capabilities. The pixel unit now contains both the photoelectric conversion element and the storage unit in a hierarchical arrangement.
2Reliability
If a frame memory is used to store images for processing, then desired images can be acquired, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing function by providing each pixel with its own storage unit and processing capability. This segmentation allows parallel processing of image data at the pixel level, eliminating the sequential bottlenecks associated with centralized frame memory processing and significantly reducing overall processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel unit becomes self-sufficient with its own storage unit, allowing it to independently perform image composition operations without waiting for centralized memory access. This self-service capability enables simultaneous processing across multiple pixels, dramatically reducing the time required to generate final images.
3Extent of automation
If each pixel has an accumulation capacitor and comparator circuit, then image processing can be performed at pixel level, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal pixel unit structure that can perform multiple functions (photoelectric conversion, signal accumulation, comparison, and storage) using a standardized set of components. This universal design simplifies manufacturing by allowing mass production of identical pixel units that can be systematically arranged to form different image sensor configurations.
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 acquisition of black-subtracted images and motion blurs efficiently without using frame memory, reducing the time required for image processing and enhancing imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor unit that generates pulses at a frequency in accordance with a frequency of photon reception
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a solid state imaging device, an imaging apparatus, and an imaging method that may acquire a desired image without using a frame memory. The solid state imaging device includes: a sensor unit that generates pulses at a frequency in accordance with a frequency of photon reception; a count unit that generates an image signal by counting the number of signals generated from the sensor unit; and a processing unit that performs a predetermined process on a count value obtained in acquisition of a first image signal, and the count unit combines a second image signal and a value obtained by performing a predetermined process on the count value obtained in the acquisition of the first image signal to generate a third image signal.