Imaging System Adaptive HDR Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems consume unnecessary power by generating high dynamic range (HDR) images even when the dynamic range of the image does not require it.
Innovation Solution
The imaging system includes an image sensor and a processing circuit that determine an operating mode based on illumination and dynamic range, adjusting exposure times for sub-pixels to either generate HDR images efficiently or skip HDR processing when not necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If HDR image processing is always performed, then dynamic range is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system dynamically switches between first and second operating modes based on scene requirements. The processing circuit determines the appropriate mode by analyzing illumination conditions and dynamic range needs, enabling the system to adapt its HDR processing behavior rather than operating in a fixed state
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (exposure times of sub-pixels) based on the determined operating mode. In the first mode, different exposure times are applied to capture HDR data, while in the second mode, uniform exposure times are used, thereby adjusting the degree of HDR processing according to actual needs
2Reliability
If HDR processing is performed in all conditions, then image quality is maintained, but unnecessary power is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts HDR processing from being a mandatory always-on function and makes it conditional. The processing circuit identifies when HDR processing is actually needed based on scene analysis, and selectively applies it only in those cases, removing the unnecessary processing in other scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system performs self-assessment of the scene's dynamic range requirements and automatically determines whether HDR processing is needed. The processing circuit evaluates the captured image data and makes autonomous decisions about processing mode without requiring manual intervention
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 reduces power consumption by selectively performing HDR image processing only when required, while maintaining improved dynamic range and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
a first sub-pixel configured to sense a target light corresponding to a target color, in the first mode, convert the target light sensed during a first exposure time, into a first signal
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system includes an image sensor configured to obtain first image data, based on a received light; and a processing circuit configured to determine an operating mode of the image sensor, among a first mode and a second mode, based on an illumination and a dynamic range corresponding to the obtained first image data. The image sensor includes a first sub-pixel configured to sense a target light corresponding to a target color, in the first mode, convert the target light sensed during a first exposure time, into a first signal, and in the second mode, convert the target light sensed during a second exposure time longer than the first exposure time, into a second signal.