Imaging Apparatus Synchronized Rolling Shutter Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional compound-lens type imaging apparatuses experience image distortion due to differences in exposure timing when using the rolling shutter method, which degrades the quality of combined images.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with lines of pixels arranged in a predetermined direction, where first and second lenses form partially overlapping images, and a scanning unit sequentially selects and exposes corresponding lines in overlapping portions to synchronize exposure timing, and a combining unit merges these images into one image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the rolling shutter method is used to capture images with multiple lenses, then the imaging apparatus can capture images sequentially, but distortion occurs due to exposure timing differences between lines
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging apparatus divides the light receiving surface into multiple regions corresponding to different lenses, and processes each region independently with dedicated scanning units. This segmentation allows simultaneous exposure control for corresponding lines across different lens regions, eliminating distortion while maintaining sequential scanning efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning unit pre-selects corresponding lines from multiple lens regions before initiating exposure. By determining which lines need to be exposed simultaneously in advance, the system coordinates exposure timing across different lenses, preventing distortion caused by timing differences while maintaining efficient sequential operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lenses are used to capture more images, then the field of view and image information increase, but the complexity of synchronizing exposure timing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning unit is designed to handle multiple lens regions with a single unified control mechanism. It can sequentially select and process corresponding lines from different lens regions using the same exposure control logic, reducing overall system complexity while supporting multiple lenses for expanded field of view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the exposure control functions for multiple lenses into a single scanning unit that processes corresponding lines from all lens regions. This merging of control functions simplifies the system architecture while maintaining the ability to coordinate exposure timing across multiple lenses.
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 enhances image quality by reducing distortion caused by exposure timing differences, resulting in improved image quality when combining images from overlapping portions.
Implementation Method 1
first and second lenses that form first and second images on a light receiving surface
Implementation Method 2
the pixels generating pixel signals by performing exposure when supplied with an exposure start signal
Data Source
AI summary
Image quality is to be increased by a compound-lens type imaging apparatus. Lines each having pixels arranged in a predetermined direction are arranged on the light receiving surface. The pixels each generate a pixel signal by performing exposure when supplied with an exposure start signal. First and second lenses form first and second images that partially overlap at overlapping portions on the light receiving surface. A scanning unit supplies the exposure start signal to a line sequentially selected in the overlapping portion of the first image among the lines, and the line corresponding to the selected line in the overlapping portion of the second image. A combining unit combines images formed from pixel signals into one image.