Lensless Pixel Array Flicker Detection Using Segmented Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a demand for reducing flicker in imaging apparatuses that do not use imaging lenses, as existing methods are inadequate in effectively addressing this issue.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a pixel region with pixels that receive incident light and output detection signals modulated by the incident angle, arranged in rows and columns, and multiple detection regions for flicker detection, allowing for flicker detection based on detection images or restored images generated from these regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an imaging apparatus does not use an imaging lens to capture images, then the device complexity is reduced, but flicker occurs in the captured images
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple detection regions (first detection region, second detection region, third detection region) that capture images at different exposure timings. By segmenting the imaging area and using sequential exposure, the system can identify and correct flicker artifacts without requiring complex optical components like imaging lenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary flicker detection by comparing images from different detection regions before final image processing. Multiple images are captured at different exposure timings, and flicker is detected in advance through image comparison, allowing correction to be applied during signal processing rather than requiring complex preventive optical mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If multiple detection regions are used for flicker detection, then flicker detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array serves multiple functions: it acts as both the primary imaging sensor and the flicker detection mechanism. The same pixel region is used to capture both the main image data and the flicker reference data by dividing it into different detection regions with different exposure timings, eliminating the need for separate dedicated flicker detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the imaging function and flicker detection function into a single integrated system. Multiple detection regions within the pixel array work together to simultaneously perform image capture and flicker detection, merging what could have been separate systems into one unified device that achieves both functions efficiently.
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 effectively reduces flicker in imaging apparatuses without lenses by utilizing the modulation of incident light and advanced signal processing, enhancing image quality and detection accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a pixel that receives incident light and outputs a detection signal indicating an output pixel value modulated depending on the incident angle of the incident light
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to an imaging device, a signal processing device, a signal processing method, a program, and an imaging apparatus that are designed to reduce flicker in the imaging apparatus that does not use any imaging lens.The imaging device includes: a pixel region in which a plurality of pixels including a pixel that receives incident light and outputs one detection signal indicating an output pixel value modulated depending on the incident angle of the incident light is arranged in a row direction and a column direction, and is sequentially exposed row by row, the incident light entering from an object via neither an imaging lens nor a pinhole; and a plurality of detection regions that are disposed in different rows in the pixel region, and are used for flicker detection. The present technology can be applied to an imaging apparatus, for example.