Wearable Imaging Terminal With Switchable Shutter Modes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging elements using the global shutter method and rolling shutter method cannot be switched, leading to issues such as image distortion for moving subjects and charge leakage in the floating diffusion layer.
Innovation Solution
A body wearable terminal that switches between global and local shutter methods by controlling pixel exposure and signal generation, using a pixel array unit with a light receiving unit, signal level storage, and separate image signal generation units for each method, along with a control unit to manage frame and object detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the rolling shutter method is used to simplify the imaging element configuration, then device complexity is reduced, but image distortion occurs when capturing moving subjects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dual-mode imaging system that dynamically switches between rolling shutter and global shutter methods based on operational requirements. The pixel control unit can select different exposure and reading modes, allowing the system to adapt between simplified operation (rolling shutter) and high-quality imaging (global shutter) as needed.
2Manufacturing precision
If the global shutter method is used to prevent image distortion by simultaneously exposing all pixels, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for a second charge storage unit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the first charge storage unit (floating diffusion layer) multi-functional by enabling it to serve both as a charge storage unit during rolling shutter operation and as a signal generation unit during global shutter operation. Through control signals that enable simultaneous exposure and reading, the same hardware structure performs multiple functions, eliminating the need for a separate second charge storage unit.
3Manufacturing precision
If the global shutter method is used to simultaneously expose all pixels, then image distortion is prevented, but power consumption increases due to extended charge storage time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by enabling simultaneous reading of all pixels after a single exposure period in global shutter mode, rather than requiring continuous charge storage. The control unit coordinates exposure and reading operations to complete the imaging cycle efficiently, reducing the time charges must be held and thereby lowering power consumption compared to extended charge storage requirements.
4Device complexity
If the floating diffusion layer is used as the charge storage unit to reduce device complexity, then manufacturing is simplified, but charge leakage occurs leading to deteriorated image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing a reset mechanism that clears residual charges from the floating diffusion layer before each exposure period. The control unit manages reset operations to prevent charge accumulation and leakage effects, ensuring the floating diffusion layer is properly prepared for each imaging cycle and maintaining image quality without requiring additional charge storage structures.
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
Enables high-speed frame generation with reduced power consumption and improved image quality by minimizing image distortion and charge leakage, allowing for simultaneous localization and mapping and object detection.
Implementation Method 1
the charge generated by the photoelectric conversion during the exposure period is accumulated inside the photoelectric conversion element
Data Source
AI summary
Switching is performed between a global shutter method and a local shutter method. A pixel control unit 30 performs local shutter and global shutter on a pixel. The image generation unit 40 generates a first frame, which is an image based on the first image signal, and a second frame, which is an image based on the second image signal. The self-position estimation unit 50 generates a surrounding map from the first frame. The object detection unit 60 detects a target object from the second frame and generates target object information.