Line Scan Imaging With Synchronized Gain and Light Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image acquisition systems require multiple imaging processes when using multiple light sources, which is inefficient and may lead to inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An image acquisition system that switches between multiple light sources and synchronizes gain values in a line scan sensor to adjust brightness levels, allowing efficient image acquisition using a combination of reflective and transmissive light sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two kinds of imaging are used to acquire an image with both reflective and transmissive illumination, then the imaging completeness is improved, but the device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges reflective and transmissive imaging into a single imaging process by using a beam splitter to combine the optical paths. The line sensor simultaneously captures both reflected light from the object surface and transmitted light through the object, eliminating the need for separate imaging devices or processes while maintaining complete imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single line sensor is designed to perform multiple functions by detecting both reflected and transmitted light. The beam splitter directs both types of light to the same sensor, making it a universal imaging solution that handles both reflective and transmissive imaging modes without requiring separate specialized devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to improve imaging quality for different objects, then the adaptability is improved, but the signal-to-noise ratio may deteriorate without proper gain adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic gain adjustment for each pixel in the line sensor to adapt to different light sources. The gain values are dynamically changed according to the active light source, allowing optimal signal amplification for both reflective and transmissive imaging modes while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratio across different imaging conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the gain parameter of each pixel based on the imaging mode and active light source. By adjusting the gain values dynamically, the system optimizes the signal-to-noise ratio for different light intensities and imaging conditions, ensuring reliable image quality whether using reflective or transmissive illumination
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
The system efficiently acquires images with improved signal-to-noise ratio and accuracy by synchronizing light source switching with gain value adjustments, eliminating the need for multiple imaging and reducing afterimages.
Implementation Method 1
a line scan sensor configured to detect light from the object irradiated with the light
Data Source
AI summary
An image acquisition system configured to acquire an image of an object to be conveyed. The system includes a plurality of light sources configured to emit light rays with which the object is irradiated, a light source control unit configured to switch a light source that irradiates the object with the light among the plurality of light sources, and a line scan sensor configured to detect light from the object irradiated with the light. The line scan sensor has a pixel section in which a plurality of pixels are at least one-dimensionally arrayed and is configured to switch a gain value for amplifying a signal from each pixel. The line scan sensor switches the gain value in synchronization with the switching of the light source.