Imaging Sensor Temperature Control for Stable Low-Noise Frame Rates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging technologies face challenges in maintaining consistent noise levels in output images due to temperature fluctuations affecting imaging elements, particularly in time-lapse imaging, leading to unnatural video recordings.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a cooling unit, temperature detection, and a processor that adjusts frame rates and cooling based on detected temperature to maintain optimal imaging element temperature and reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the imaging element temperature is maintained at a constant target temperature using cooling system, then the noise caused by dark current is kept constant during time-lapse imaging, but the device complexity increases due to the cooling system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameter (frame rate) of the imaging element based on temperature conditions. When temperature exceeds a threshold, the frame rate is reduced, which decreases heat generation and allows the imaging element to cool down naturally, eliminating the need for active cooling systems while maintaining noise consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging element cools itself passively by reducing its operating frame rate, which reduces heat generation. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for external cooling systems while maintaining consistent noise levels through temperature control
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the frame rate is reduced to lower the temperature of the imaging element, then the noise is reduced, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frame rate adjustment based on real-time temperature monitoring. The frame rate is not fixed but varies dynamically - operating at high frame rates when temperature is acceptable and reducing frame rate when temperature exceeds thresholds, optimizing both noise performance and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system periodically monitors temperature and adjusts frame rate accordingly, creating a periodic cycle of high-performance operation followed by cooling periods. This periodic adjustment maintains average noise levels while preserving overall productivity through intermittent high frame rate operation
3Productivity
If the frame rate is increased to improve productivity, then the output rate increases, but the temperature of the imaging element increases causing more noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where temperature is continuously monitored and the frame rate is adjusted based on temperature readings. When temperature rises due to high frame rate operation, the system detects this and reduces frame rate to cool the imaging element, creating a closed-loop control that balances productivity and noise
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
The solution effectively stabilizes noise levels in output images by dynamically controlling cooling and frame rates, ensuring high sensitivity and low noise even with temperature changes.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling unit that cools the imaging element
Implementation Method 2
a temperature detection unit that detects a temperature of the imaging element
Implementation Method 3
an imaging element having a photosensitive layer on a silicon substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an imaging apparatus and a control method of the imaging apparatus which are for reducing noise included in an output image of an imaging element having a photosensitive layer on a silicon substrate. An imaging apparatus (1-1) includes an imaging element (12) having a photosensitive layer on a silicon substrate, a cooling unit (14) that cools the imaging element (12), a temperature detection unit (16) that detects a temperature of the imaging element (12), and a CPU (26) functioning as a processor, in which the processor (26) controls the cooling unit (14) based on a first frame rate at which the imaging element is driven (12) and the temperature of the imaging element (12) detected by the temperature detection unit (16).