Enhanced depth of focus cameras using variable apertures and pixel binning
US11606517B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 7, 2021 |
| Grant date | Mar 14, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 17, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N25/75
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Example embodiments relate to enhanced depth of focus cameras using variable apertures and pixel binning. An example embodiment includes a device. The device includes an image sensor. The image sensor includes an array of light-sensitive pixels and a readout circuit. The device also includes a variable aperture. Additionally, the device includes a controller that is configured to cause: the variable aperture to adjust to a first aperture size when a high-light condition is present, the variable aperture to adjust to a second aperture size when a low-light condition is present, the readout circuit to perform a first level of pixel binning when the high-light condition is present, and the readout circuit to perform a second level of pixel binning when the low-light condition is present. The second aperture size is larger than the first aperture size. The second level of pixel binning is greater than the first level of pixel binning.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.