Dual-Mode Image Signal Processor Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image signal processors in mobile devices face challenges in balancing power consumption with image quality, particularly when used for extended periods in applications like face recognition, where traditional optimization for human perception does not align with feature detection requirements.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode signal processing system that operates in a mode optimizing image quality for human perception and another mode optimizing for feature detection with reduced power consumption, where the latter degrades image quality to conserve power, using a power management circuit to switch between sets of processor blocks and selectively activate perception-enhancing circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the ISP operates in high-power mode to provide improved human perception quality, then image quality is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ISP dynamically switches between two operational modes (first mode with full processor blocks for high quality, second mode with selective activation for low power) based on the application requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize power consumption while maintaining necessary image quality for each specific use case.
Solution Approach 2:
In the second mode, only specific processor blocks that are critical for feature detection are activated, while other blocks are deactivated. This selective activation applies local quality optimization by maintaining processing capability only where necessary, reducing overall power consumption while preserving essential functionality.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the ISP operates for extended periods to support feature detection applications, then functionality is maintained, but battery capacity is exhausted
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its power consumption characteristics by switching between operational modes. For extended feature detection tasks, the system operates in the second mode with reduced power consumption, enabling prolonged operational duration without depleting battery capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational parameters of the ISP are changed between modes - specifically, the activation state of processor blocks is modified. In the second mode, fewer blocks are activated, changing the power consumption parameter to enable extended operation on battery power.
3Measurement precision
If perception-enhancing circuits are fully activated to improve human perception, then image quality is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Perception-enhancing circuits are selectively activated based on the operational mode and application requirements. In the second mode, only the minimum necessary perception-enhancing circuits are activated to maintain sufficient quality for feature detection, reducing power consumption while preserving essential perception capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
In the second mode, partial activation of perception-enhancing circuits is applied - only enough processing is performed to maintain adequate quality for the specific application, rather than applying full perception optimization. This partial action reduces power consumption while maintaining necessary functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal processing circuit, for example, an image signal processor, is operated in two modes including a first mode for providing output optimized for human perception and a second mode providing output optimized for feature detection where the image signal processor in the second mode provides a degraded output with respect to human perception that nevertheless saves power and provides reliable feature detection.