Single image sensor for capturing mixed structured-light images and regular images
US10447950B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 16, 2018 |
| Grant date | Oct 15, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N23/555
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An integrated image sensor for capturing a mixed structured-light image and regular image using an integrated image sensor are disclosed. The integrated image sensor comprises a pixel array, one or more output circuits, one or more analog-to-digital converters, and one or more timing and control circuits. The timing and control circuits are arranged to perform a set of actions including capturing a regular image and a structured-light image. According to the present invention, the structured-light image captured before or after the regular image is used to derive depth or shape information for the regular image. An endoscope based on the above integrated image sensor is also disclosed. The endoscope may comprises a capsule housing adapted to be swallowed, where the components of integrated image sensor, a structured light source and a non-structured light source are enclosed and sealed in the capsule housing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.