Multi-Sensor Image Capture with Independent Charge Accumulation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image capturing apparatuses with multiple cameras of different sensitivities face a limitation in exposure level control due to a common signal readout frequency, leading to decreased image quality, especially in low light environments for cameras with lower sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing apparatus comprising multiple imaging sections with overlapping fields of view, where one section generates a wide-angle image by combining overlapping images and another section captures detailed images, with control units setting a longer charge accumulation time for the lower sensitivity cameras, allowing for improved exposure control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a common signal readout frequency is used among a plurality of cameras having different sensitivities, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the degree of freedom of exposure level control decreases and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image capturing system into two independent segments: a first image capturing device with multiple imaging sections for wide-angle capture, and a second image capturing device for detailed close-up capture. Each segment operates with independent exposure control, allowing the first device to use longer charge accumulation times for improved low-light performance while the second device maintains standard readout frequencies for high-speed detailed capture. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling differentiated exposure control without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different charge accumulation time characteristics to different imaging sections based on their specific functions. The first image capturing device (wide-angle) is configured with longer maximum charge accumulation times to capture more light in low-light environments, while the second image capturing device (detailed) uses standard charge accumulation times optimized for its specific purpose. This localized optimization allows each imaging section to operate at its optimal exposure settings without compromising the other.
2Manufacturing precision
If the maximum charge accumulation time period is increased for solid-state image sensors in the first image capturing device, then image quality in low light environments is improved, but the signal readout frequency may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image capturing functions into two independent devices with different performance characteristics. The first image capturing device is specifically optimized for wide-angle capture with extended charge accumulation capabilities for low-light performance, while the second device handles detailed capture with standard readout speeds. This segmentation allows the first device to achieve longer charge accumulation times without compromising overall system frame rate, as the second device maintains standard readout frequencies for its detailed capture function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic charge accumulation time control where the maximum charge accumulation time period is independently adjustable for each imaging section based on lighting conditions and capture requirements. The control unit dynamically sets longer maximum charge accumulation times for the first image capturing device when low-light capture is needed, while maintaining standard timing for the second device. This dynamic adjustment allows optimization of image quality without fixed constraints on frame rate.
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 configuration enhances the quality of wide-angle images captured by lower sensitivity cameras without reducing frame rate, enabling the use of lower-cost, smaller, and higher-pixel-density sensors, while minimizing motion blur and flicker effects.
Implementation Method 1
each imaging section having a solid-state image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus, comprising: a first imaging section having a plurality of imaging sections arranged so that parts of their image capturing ranges overlap; a second imaging section configured to generate a detailed image by capturing a part of an image capturing range of the first imaging section; a combining section configured to generate a wide-angle image by combining images captured by the plurality of imaging sections; a transfer section configured to transfer the wide-angle image; and a control section configured to control a maximum charge accumulation time period that can be set to the plurality of imaging sections in the first imaging section to be greater than a maximum charge accumulation time period that can be set to the second imaging section.