Low Frame Rate Imaging Signal Gain Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging apparatuses experience degradation in image quality when extending the electron accumulation period for low-frame-rate imaging, leading to insufficient dynamic range and fixed pattern noise, particularly due to variations in signal charge accumulation periods during electronic shuttering.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves amplifying imaging signals from an image sensor and variably setting the amplification gain for each frame based on its signal accumulation period during frame addition, ensuring equalized signal characteristics for improved image quality during low-frame-rate imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the electron accumulation period is extended for low-frame-rate imaging, then the imaging period can be lengthened to capture more light, but the dynamic range of the image sensor becomes insufficient and fixed pattern noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging period is divided into multiple frame periods, with charges accumulated separately in each frame period and then added together. This segmentation allows the total imaging period to be extended while maintaining the dynamic range characteristics of individual shorter accumulation periods, resolving the contradiction between extended imaging duration and sufficient dynamic range.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the electron accumulation period is extended for low-frame-rate imaging, then the imaging period can be lengthened to capture more light, but fixed pattern noise and automatic control system performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the extended imaging period into multiple shorter frame periods with separate charge accumulation and addition processing, the patent prevents fixed pattern noise from accumulating over the entire extended period. Each segment's charges are added after readout, maintaining signal quality while achieving low-frame-rate imaging with extended total accumulation time.
3Device complexity
If frame addition is performed without varying amplification gain, then processing is simplified, but signal characteristics deteriorate due to variations in charge accumulation periods
Solution Approach 1:
The amplification gain parameter is varied according to the charge accumulation period of each frame. Frames with shorter accumulation periods receive higher gain, while frames with longer accumulation periods receive lower gain, equalizing the output signal levels. This parameter adjustment maintains signal characteristic consistency across frames with different accumulation periods while enabling proper frame addition processing.
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 approach maintains signal quality by equalizing the characteristics of added frames, preventing deterioration and enhancing image quality by adjusting gains according to the accumulation periods, thus addressing the limitations of conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor for converting imaging light into the imaging signal
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging method is provided. The method includes the steps of: amplifying an imaging signal obtained from an image sensor for converting imaging light into an imaging signal; carrying out nonlinear processing on the amplified signal; adding a predetermined plurality of frames of the imaging signal subjected to the nonlinear processing per frame; and carrying out the variable setting of amplification gain of each frame on the basis of a signal accumulation period of each frame in the plurality of frames subjected to the addition.