Variable Wavelength Filter Imaging Device for Spatial Frequency Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging devices face challenges in setting suitable transmission wavelengths for pixels, which can lead to suboptimal image capture based on the photographic subject.

Innovation Solution

An imaging device comprising a plurality of pixels with variable wavelength filters that can change between two wavelengths, a light reception unit, and a control unit that analyzes images and adjusts the filter settings based on detected spatial frequency components to optimize image capture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed wavelength filters are used in imaging devices, then the device structure is simple, but the transmission wavelengths are not suitable for different photographic subjects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different photographic subjectsVSAvoidfilter control system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the filter wavelength variable rather than fixed. Each pixel's filter can dynamically change its transmission wavelength based on the photographic subject, allowing the imaging device to adapt to different subjects (flowers, landscapes, portraits, etc.) while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure without requiring multiple fixed-filter devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of filter transmission wavelength from a fixed value to a variable parameter that can be adjusted according to different photographic subjects. By controlling the wavelength parameter of each pixel's filter, the system achieves adaptability to various subjects while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate imaging devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If variable wavelength filters are used for each pixel, then adaptability to photographic subjects is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewavelength adjustment capabilityVSAvoidfilter control system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes each pixel's filter capable of performing multiple functions by enabling wavelength variation. Instead of having separate filters for different subjects, each filter can universally adapt to various photographic subjects by changing its transmission wavelength, reducing the need for multiple specialized components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service through automatic wavelength adjustment based on subject analysis. The control unit automatically determines the appropriate wavelength settings by analyzing photographic subject characteristics, eliminating the need for manual filter selection and reducing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If manual filter selection is used, then device structure is simple, but image quality optimization is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage quality optimizationVSAvoidautomatic wavelength adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by analyzing the captured image characteristics and automatically adjusting the filter wavelengths accordingly. The control unit receives image data, analyzes subject features, and adjusts the wavelength settings to optimize image quality, creating a closed-loop system that continuously improves imaging performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical filter selection with an automated control system that uses electronic signals to adjust filter wavelengths. This substitution of mechanical operation with electronic control achieves precise image quality optimization while maintaining system simplicity through software-based wavelength management

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 device dynamically adjusts pixel filter settings to match the subject's spatial frequency characteristics, enhancing image resolution and quality by changing the transmission wavelengths of the filters in real-time.

Implementation Method 1

a variable wavelength filter that passes a wavelength that can be varied

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVariable wavelength filtering: Filter (optical)

Implementation Method 2

a photoelectric conversion unit that photoelectrically converts the incident light and generates electric charge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11626436B2Imaging device and image sensor
Publication Date: 2023.04.11 NIKON CORP
  • US11626436B2 patent drawing
  • US11626436B2 patent drawing
  • US11626436B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging device, includes: an imaging unit in which are disposed a plurality of pixels, each including a filter that is capable of changing a wavelength of light passing therethrough to a first wavelength and to a second wavelength and a light reception unit that receives light that has passed through the filter, and that captures an image via an optical system; an analysis unit that analyzes the image captured by the imaging unit; and a control unit that controls the wavelength of the light to be transmitted, by the filter based upon a result of analysis by the analysis unit.