Pixel Switch Control for Noise Correction in Endoscope Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors face challenges in accurately correcting pixel values, particularly due to variations in light exposure and noise patterns, which affect the quality of images captured, especially in endoscope systems where precise light management is crucial.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device employs a dual-mode operation for its pixels, switching between a first mode for transferring electric charges and a second mode for resetting them, allowing for the generation of distinct pixel signals that can be used to correct for noise and variations, with a correction circuit processing these signals to enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If OB pixels or dummy pixels are used for correction, then pixel value correction capability is improved, but device complexity and area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the correction signal generation function from dedicated OB/dummy pixels and implements it within the existing effective pixel structure by controlling switch states during specific timing periods, thereby eliminating the need for separate correction pixels while maintaining correction capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes effective pixels perform dual functions: they serve as both image-capturing pixels and correction signal generation pixels by controlling the transfer switch and reset switch states, allowing one pixel type to fulfill multiple roles and eliminating the need for separate OB/dummy pixels
2Reliability
If reset switch is turned on first to reset FD, then electric charge is transferred to FD, then signal is output, but this sequence increases operation time and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic switching between first operation mode (normal imaging) and second operation mode (correction signal generation) in the pixel operation, allowing correction signals to be generated at specific intervals without continuously disrupting the normal imaging flow, thus balancing signal accuracy with imaging productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs correction signal generation in advance during specific timing periods by controlling switch states, so that correction data is prepared beforehand and can be applied to improve signal accuracy without delaying subsequent imaging operations
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 effectively reduces noise and improves image accuracy by allowing for real-time correction of pixel values, even under varying light conditions, thereby enhancing the overall performance of endoscope imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
The photoelectric conversion element is configured to perform photoelectric conversion and generate an electric charge in accordance with the amount of received light
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes multiple pixels. When a first mode is set, at least one pixel of the multiple pixels sets a state of a transfer switch to an ON state and outputs a first pixel signal in accordance with an electric charge held in a floating diffusion. When a second mode is set, the at least one pixel sets the state of the transfer switch to an OFF state, sets a state of the reset switch to the ON state, and outputs a second pixel signal in accordance with the electric charge held in the floating diffusion in an output period.