Multiband Image Sensor Spectral Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices face challenges in accurately estimating detailed spectral information of objects using only three types of color filters, leading to decreased image quality and increased complexity with multiband imaging techniques, and existing solutions either compromise on resolution or increase device size and cost.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a single-chip multiband image sensor incorporating four or more types of color filters with distinct spectral sensitivity characteristics, performing interpolation and spectral estimation to correct normal images while minimizing image quality deterioration, and including features for attention area detection and light source estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single-chip multiband image sensor with four or more types of color filters is used, then spectral information accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple color filter types (R, G, B, and additional spectral filters) onto a single image sensor chip, integrating spectral measurement capability into the standard imaging device. This merging approach enables spectral information acquisition without requiring separate measurement instruments, thereby improving spectral accuracy while managing device complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: standard color imaging using RGB filters and spectral information measurement using additional color filters. This multi-functionality allows the same device to capture both visual images and spectral data, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If spectral estimation processing is performed using pixel values from correction information generation color filters, then color correction accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs spectral estimation processing using pixel values from correction information generation color filters during the image capture phase. By preparing spectral estimate values in advance alongside the captured image data, the system enables rapid color correction without requiring extensive post-processing time, thus balancing accuracy with processing efficiency.
3Reliability
If interpolation processing is performed on pixel values from normal image generation color filters, then image quality is maintained, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the captured image data itself, including pixel values from normal image generation color filters, to perform interpolation processing. By utilizing the already-acquired image information for self-correction and enhancement, the system maintains image quality without requiring external reference data or complex additional measurement systems.
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 solution enables accurate color correction and light source detection while maintaining image quality, reducing processing complexity and device size, and improving visibility in medical imaging applications.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor that includes a color filter array in which normal image generation color filters and correction information generation color filters are placed in an array, the normal image generation color filters corresponding to three or more bands
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes: an image sensor that includes a color filter array in which normal image generation color filters corresponding to three or more bands and correction information generation color filters differing in spectral sensitivity characteristics from the normal image generation color filters are placed in an array; a normal image generation section that generates a normal image in which pixel values of missing pixels are interpolated; a spectral estimation section that performs a spectral estimation process based on pixel values obtained using at least the correction information generation color filters; a correction information generation section that generates correction information that corrects the normal image based on a spectral estimate value; and a corrected image generation section that performs a correction process on the normal image based on the correction information to generate a corrected image.