Optical Module Calibration Data Storage via External Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for higher image quality in cameras with larger pixel arrays requires more calibration data, which poses a challenge for efficient storage and processing using non-volatile memory, especially in terms of silicon area and programming time.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize non-volatile memory to store identification information for an optical module, allowing for the retrieval and updating of calibration data from a separate memory or server, reducing the need for extensive on-chip storage and enabling efficient calibration and image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-volatile memory is used to store calibration data on the optical module chip, then calibration information is available for image processing, but the silicon area required and programming time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the calibration data storage function from the optical module chip itself and relocates it to an external server. The chip only retains identification information (minimal storage), while comprehensive calibration data is stored externally and retrieved on-demand, thereby eliminating the need for large on-chip non-volatile memory.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a server and communication interface that mediates between the optical module and the calibration data. The identification information on the chip serves as a key to retrieve the actual calibration data from the external server, acting as an intermediary storage mechanism.
2Reliability
If non-volatile memory is used to store calibration data on the optical module chip, then calibration information is available for image processing, but programming time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-storing comprehensive calibration data on an external server during manufacturing. This eliminates the need for time-consuming programming of the optical module chip during assembly, as the data is already prepared and readily accessible when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
By extracting the calibration data storage from the chip, the patent eliminates the programming step that would otherwise be required to write calibration data to on-chip memory, thereby reducing programming time to near zero for the optical module assembly process.
3Measurement precision
If more calibration data is stored for higher image quality, then image processing accuracy improves, but memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional on-chip memory constraint to a three-dimensional solution by utilizing external server storage capacity. This allows virtually unlimited calibration data to be stored without increasing the physical footprint of the optical module chip, enabling high-precision image processing without on-chip memory limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
By extracting calibration data storage from the constrained on-chip environment to an external server with vastly greater storage capacity, the patent enables storage of extensive calibration datasets required for high-quality image processing without being limited by chip memory capacity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical module for use in a device comprising: an array of pixels configured to capture image data; and a memory, said memory configured to store identification information associated with said optical module, said identification information enabling retrieval of information for controlling said optical module from a source outside said device.