Solid-State Imaging Device Pixel Group Exposure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid-state imaging devices face challenges in capturing scenes with high dynamic range without deteriorating spatial resolution, as methods to avoid halation and blackening often result in poor SN ratio and image quality, and previous technologies that extend dynamic range by multiple exposures compromise spatial resolution.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device with a pixel array unit grouped into multiple pixel groups, where a timing controller independently sets exposure start and end timings for each group, allowing multiple exposures within a single vertical synchronization period to set exposure time ratios close to each other, thereby capturing high dynamic range images without compromising spatial resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple images are imaged serially with different exposure times to extend dynamic range, then the dynamic range is extended, but the frame rate is lowered and multiple image creation occurs if subject moves
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple pixel groups, each capable of independent exposure timing control. This segmentation allows simultaneous multi-exposure imaging across different pixel groups without requiring sequential capture, thereby maintaining high frame rates while achieving extended dynamic range through spatial rather than temporal multiplexing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from temporal multiplexing (serial imaging at different times) to spatial multiplexing (parallel imaging across different pixel groups within the same vertical synchronization period). This dimensional shift enables multiple exposure times to be captured simultaneously without compromising frame rate or causing temporal artifacts from subject movement.
2Productivity
If the number of pixel groups is increased to enable multiple exposures within one vertical synchronization period, then multiple exposures are achieved, but the spatial resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces dynamic exposure timing control where each pixel group can independently adjust its exposure start and end timings. This dynamic control allows multiple exposures to be performed within the same vertical synchronization period without fixed spatial partitioning, thereby maintaining spatial resolution while achieving multiple exposures through temporal flexibility within each pixel group.
Solution Approach 2:
The exposure timing parameters (start timing and end timing) are made independently adjustable for each pixel group. By changing these temporal parameters dynamically, the system achieves multiple exposures within one vertical synchronization period without altering the spatial configuration or reducing spatial resolution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If exposure time ratios between multiple exposure images are set differently to capture high dynamic range, then the dynamic range is extended, but the spatial resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the pixel array into multiple pixel groups with independent exposure control, the system can assign different exposure time ratios to different spatial regions. This allows high dynamic range capture through spatially varied exposure timing while maintaining full spatial resolution, as each pixel group operates independently without requiring spatial downsampling or averaging.
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 dynamic range images without halation or blackening, maintaining spatial resolution by synchronizing exposure times across pixel groups within a single vertical synchronization period.
Implementation Method 1
unit pixels including photoelectric conversion elements are arranged in a matrix form and each unit pixel is grouped into a plurality of pixel groups
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state imaging device according to the present disclosure includes a pixel array unit in which unit pixels including photoelectric conversion elements are arranged in a matrix form and the unit pixels are grouped into a plurality of pixel groups and a timing controller which independently sets an exposure start timing and an exposure end timing relative to each of the plurality of pixel groups so that at least one pixel group of the plurality of pixel groups is exposed a plurality of times within a single vertical synchronization period.