Pixel Defect Correction Circuit Using Segmented Partial Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data processing techniques for pixel data from imaging devices, such as CMOS and CCD sensors, face inefficiencies in correcting defective pixels due to complex circuitry and increased processing time, especially when dealing with large numbers of pixels per line.
Innovation Solution
A data processor with a pixel defect correcting unit that divides each line into multiple partial areas, allowing for parallel processing and correction of defective pixels using nearby defect-free pixels, utilizing a decision circuit and memory to efficiently identify and correct pixel data based on x-coordinate values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pixel defect correction techniques are used, then defective pixels can be corrected, but the circuitry becomes complex and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides each line of pixels into multiple partial areas, with each partial area processed independently by dedicated correction circuits. This segmentation allows the correction function to be distributed across multiple simple units rather than requiring one complex centralized circuit, thereby maintaining correction capability while reducing overall circuit complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by organizing correction circuits in a two-dimensional array structure that mirrors the pixel layout. Each correction circuit is positioned to serve specific partial areas, creating a systematic spatial mapping that simplifies the correction process and reduces circuit interconnections compared to traditional non-spatial approaches.
2Reliability
If traditional pixel defect correction techniques are used, then defective pixels can be corrected, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the pixel line into multiple partial areas with dedicated correction circuits operating in parallel, the patent enables simultaneous correction of multiple defective pixels. This parallel processing approach dramatically reduces the time required compared to sequential correction methods while maintaining comprehensive defect correction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-organizes pixel data into partial areas and pre-positiones correction circuits to handle specific regions before actual correction is needed. This preliminary organization enables immediate parallel processing when defect correction is required, eliminating setup and sequencing delays that would otherwise extend processing time.
3Device complexity
If pixel data is processed sequentially, then processing is simpler, but processing time increases for large numbers of pixels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel processing task into multiple independent partial areas, each handled by its own correction circuit. This segmentation transforms a single complex sequential processing task into multiple simple parallel tasks, achieving both processing simplicity at the circuit level and high speed through parallel execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic parallel processing architecture where multiple correction circuits operate simultaneously on different partial areas. This dynamic approach allows the system to adaptively process multiple pixels in parallel rather than being constrained to fixed sequential processing, thereby achieving high productivity without excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of pieces of first input data are input to a first decision circuit in an order based on a first rule. The memory has a plurality of first memory areas that respectively store a plurality of pieces of first data that match at least part of the plurality of pieces of first input data. The first decision circuit compares the first data read from the memory with the first input data to be input. When they do not match each other, The first decision circuit compares the first data with the first input data to be input next. When they match, The first decision circuit compares the first data read next from the memory on the basis of the first read pointer incremented with the first input data to be input next.