Abstract: Improving the dynamic range of captured images is disclosed by using sub-pixel arrays to capture light at different exposures and generate color pixel outputs for an image in a single frame. Each sub-pixel array can include multiple sub-pixels. The sub-pixels that make up a sub-pixel array can include red (R) sub-pixels, green (G) sub-pixels, blue (B) sub-pixels, and in some embodiments, clear sub-pixels. Those sub-pixel arrays having clear sub-pixels effectively have a higher exposure level and can capture low-light scenes (for dark areas) better than those sub-pixel arrays without clear sub-pixels. Each sub-pixel array can produce a color pixel output that is a combination of the outputs of the sub-pixels in the sub-pixel array. Each sub-pixel in a sub-pixel array can have the same exposure time, or in some embodiments, individual sub-pixels within a sub-pixel array can have different exposure times to improve the overall dynamic range even more.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a variable active image area. Sub-pixels are arranged into a variable selection group, which comprises a pixel group. Sub-pixels of the pixel group can belong to a plurality of selection subgroups. A selector is configured to select a combination of one or more selection subgroups to provide variable sub-pixel selection. Variable sub-pixel selection can vary different aspects of a variable active image area (e.g., location, size, shape). Varying these aspects can lead to greater flexibility in alignment and calibration considerations. Selecting only some of all the sub-pixels can lead to less processing and lower power consumption. A plurality of sub-pixel values can be processed into one pixel group value. Variable sub-pixel selection for different variable selection groups can be independent. Holding circuitry can hold unused or non-selected sub-pixels in a reset condition to reduce blooming.

Abstract: Increasing the resolution of digital imagers is disclosed by sampling an image using diagonally oriented color sub-pixel arrays, and creating missing pixels from the sampled image data. A first method maps the diagonal color imager pixels to every other orthogonal display pixel. The missing display pixels can be computed by interpolating data from adjacent color imager pixels, and averaging color information from neighboring display pixels. This averaging can be done either by weighting the surrounding pixels equally, or by applying weights to the surrounding pixels based on intensity information. A second method utilizes the captured color imager sub-pixel data instead of interpolation. Missing color pixels for orthogonal displays can be obtained directly from the sub-pixel arrays formed between the row color pixels in the imager.

Abstract: Improving the dynamic range of captured images is disclosed by using sub-pixel arrays to capture light at different exposures and generate color pixel outputs for an image in a single frame. Each sub-pixel array can include multiple sub-pixels. The sub-pixels that make up a sub-pixel array can include red (R) sub-pixels, green (G) sub-pixels, blue (B) sub-pixels, and in some embodiments, clear sub-pixels. Those sub-pixel arrays having clear sub-pixels effectively have a higher exposure level and can capture low-light scenes (for dark areas) better than those sub-pixel arrays without clear sub-pixels. Each sub-pixel array can produce a color pixel output that is a combination of the outputs of the sub-pixels in the sub-pixel array. Each sub-pixel in a sub-pixel array can have the same exposure time, or in some embodiments, individual sub-pixels within a sub-pixel array can have different exposure times to improve the overall dynamic range even more.

Abstract: The use of a Bayer pattern array in digital image sensors to enhance the dynamic range of the sensors is disclosed. Each Bayer pattern in the array can include three different pixels having a first exposure, and a fourth pixel (which is the same color as one of the other pixels in the array) having a second exposure. The dynamic range of the Bayer pattern array can be enhanced by using different exposure times for the pixels. Each pixel can capture only one channel (i.e. either red (R), green (G) or blue (B) light). Interpolation of neighboring pixels, including those having different exposure times, can enable the pixels in the Bayer pattern array to generate missing color information and effectively become a color pixel, and can allow the Bayer pattern array to have a higher dynamic range.