Multi-Array Imaging System with Global Shutter Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image sensor systems face challenges in providing high-resolution images with varying zoom levels and field of view, as existing technologies struggle to efficiently capture and process spatial and spatio-temporal information across different angular ranges with high fidelity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multi-array imaging system with multiple image sensor arrays and optical systems, each with distinct zoom levels, where the image sensor arrays are configured to capture images with varying pixel densities and sizes, and an electronic global shutter mechanism synchronizes the integration period across all arrays to ensure high-resolution image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single image sensor array is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to capture high-resolution images with varying zoom levels and field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent image sensor arrays, each optimized for specific zoom levels and fields of view. This segmentation allows each array to capture high-resolution images in its designated range while the system as a whole provides versatile zoom capabilities across multiple focal lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single two-dimensional sensor array to a multi-dimensional array system where sensors are positioned at different spatial locations and orientations. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous capture of multiple fields of view and zoom levels, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple image sensor arrays with distinct zoom levels are used, then the measurement precision and image fidelity are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each image sensor array is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple roles: capturing wide-angle scenes, telephoto images, and serving as a backup or supplement to other arrays. This universality justifies the increased device complexity by maximizing the utility of each additional sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the multi-array system are optimized with distinct local qualities - some arrays have higher pixel densities for telephoto work, others have wider apertures for low-light performance, and some are positioned for specific fields of view. This local optimization achieves high measurement precision in each specialized domain while managing overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If an electronic global shutter mechanism is implemented to synchronize integration periods, then the image quality and resolution are enhanced, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic global shutter implements periodic synchronization of integration periods across all image sensor arrays, ensuring that all sensors capture images at the same moment in time. This periodic action enhances image quality by preventing temporal artifacts while managing energy consumption through efficient timing control.
4Productivity
If multiple image sensor arrays are used to capture spatial and spatio-temporal information, then the productivity and imaging performance are improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary processing layers that manage the complex spatial and spatio-temporal information from multiple arrays. These intermediaries include synchronization control circuits, data aggregation modules, and processing algorithms that coordinate the multiple sensors and transform their outputs into coherent high-resolution images, reducing the difficulty of detecting and measuring the captured information.
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 enables the capture of high-fidelity images with adjustable zoom levels and field of view, enhancing image quality and resolution by synchronizing the integration period across multiple image sensor arrays, thereby improving the overall imaging performance.
Implementation Method 1
Image sensors transduce spatial and spatio-temporal information, carried in the optical domain, into a recorded impression. Digital image sensors provide such a recorded impression in the electronic domain.
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, an imaging system and method are provided. In an embodiment, the system comprises a first image sensor array, a first optical system to project a first image on the first image sensor array, the first optical system having a first zoom level. A second optical system is to project a second image on a second image sensor array, the second optical system having a second zoom level. The second image sensor array and the second optical system are pointed in the same direction as the first image sensor array and the first optical system. The second zoom level is greater than the first zoom level such that the second image projected onto the second image sensor array is a zoomed-in portion of the first image projected on the first image sensor array.