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Showing papers on "Image sensor published in 1980"


Patent
07 Jul 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a high-resolution image is subdivided into contiguous sub-images, each of which is minified before being projected upon an image sensor module, which avoids bars of blindness between the fields of view of the image sensor modules.
Abstract: An image sensor, suitable for resolving a high-resolution image, comprises an arrayed plurality of image sensor modules of moderate individual resolution. The high-resolution image is subdivided into contiguous sub-images, each of which is minified before being projected upon an image sensor module. This avoids bars of blindness between the fields of view of the image sensor modules, and also facilitates production and repair of the image sensor.

216 citations


Patent
07 Apr 1980
TL;DR: In this article, an apparatus for controlling the exposure of a solid state image sensor array monitors the semiconductor substrate current produced as charge signal accumulates during an exposure of the array to radiant energy.
Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the exposure of a solid state image sensor array monitors the semiconductor substrate current produced as charge signal accumulates during an exposure of the array to radiant energy. The exposure of the array is controlled in response to an output signal representative of the total substrate current.

146 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a tomographic extension of Doppler processing for rotating planar arrays of point scatterers has been proposed to obtain high resolution in all directions in the object plane without the use of a wideband signal.
Abstract: Doppler processing is an established method for obtaining spatial resolution of objects which exhibit radial motion relative to an observing sensor. When applied to rotating objects, Doppler processing yields resolution in cross-range along an axis normal to both object rotation and line-of-sight axes. In this case, the cross-range resolution performance is dictated by the angular interval over which the data are observed and processed. This paper treats a tomographic extension of Doppler processing in the case of a rotating object (or a rotating planar array of point scatterers). It uses a stationary, continuous-wave (CW) irradiating source and sensor, co-located in the plane being imaged. The processing of data from a rotating object is shown to be equivalent to synthesizing an aperture which is a segment of a circle, however, processing over large angular rotations requires a focusing correction. Angular rotations up to and including 2? radians are considered. For this latter condition the system simulates an annular aperture which encloses the object. With this technique, high resolution may be obtained in all directions in the object plane without the use of a wideband signal, and equal point-objects separated by a quarter wavelength may be resolved. The imaging process provides high resolution for sparse arrays of objects of similar strength which are small in comparison to a wavelength. The imaging capability in the case of dense object arrays or large objects is limited and has a restricted dynamic range.

76 citations


Patent
06 Mar 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a reader system for optically scanning a bar code and processing the resulting video signals to produce corresponding digital signals is disclosed, which comprises a camera having an image sensor which converts the varying black and white bar code image into a corresponding analog video signal.
Abstract: A reader system for optically scanning a bar code and processing the resulting video signals to produce corresponding digital signals is disclosed. The scanner comprises a camera having an image sensor which converts the varying black and white bar code image into a corresponding analog video signal. This signal is fed to a dynamic threshold detector which tracks the midpoint voltage value of the video signal and applies this value to a comparator, where it is compared to the analog video signal. The output of the comparator provides a train of logic states "0" and "1" representing video levels below and above the midpoint voltage value, respectively, thus producing a digitalized video signal corresponding to the bar code. The digital signals are filtered to mask single bit aberrations, with the filter producing a series of logic "0"'s and "1"'s at the clock rate of the system, each of which represents the output of a single "pixel", or picture element, of the image sensor, the output level indicating whether the pixel has sensed a black or white bar. The number of consecutive pixels having "0" or "1" output levels are counted and compared to preset values to determine whether wide or narrow code bars are being sensed, and this information is stored in digital form in one of two serial memories. At the same time, the total number of bars scanned is counted, and the memory is inhibited when the count equals the number of bars in the code. At the completion of a first scan of the bar code image, the storage of informatiion is switched to the other serial memory and the bar code scanning process is repeated while the data just stored in the first memory is processed, for example, in a conventional bar code-to-numeric or alpha-numeric converter for display. Multiple scans of the bar code insure an accurate readout.

71 citations


Patent
15 Aug 1980
TL;DR: In this article, a system for analyzing images represented by a serial stream of digital electrical signals corresponding to values of pixels in a matrix of points constituting an image is presented, which includes a pipeline of substantially identical neighborhood transformation stages.
Abstract: A system for analyzing images represented by a serial stream of digital electrical signals corresponding to values of pixels in a matrix of points constituting an image. The system includes a pipeline of substantially identical neighborhood transformation stages. Each stage includes a processor portion for analyzing the pixel values and a memory portion communicating with the processor portion for sequentially providing a window of neighboring pixels to the processor for analysis. A central programmable controller communicates with the pipeline over a single communication link which provides both the pixel value data to the pipeline and transformation control instructions to the processor portions of each stage. The memory portion preferably includes a random access memory which serves as a line storage device which may be readily adjusted to accommodate different raster scan line lengths from various image sensors. Each stage includes improved logic circuitry capable of performing a wide variety of analyses on both two-dimensional image data represented by binary pixel values and three-dimensional image data represented by multi-valued pixel values. Image border or off-image detection circuitry is also disclosed which is capable of detecting nonlinear boundaries for the image matrix.

61 citations


Patent
Hiromi Someya1
01 Dec 1980
TL;DR: In this article, a removably attachable electronic image pick-up device for use with a single lens reflex camera, includes a casing which is shaped to fit in a receptacle on the camera body, which receptacle is otherwise used to seat a replaceable optical finder to display an object image.
Abstract: A removably attachable electronic image pick-up device for use with a single lens reflex camera, includes a casing which is shaped to fit in a receptacle on the camera body, which receptacle is otherwise used to seat a replaceable optical finder to display an object image. The device also includes a solid state image sensor arranged within the casing to produce photosignals which are processed by a control circuit to a prescribed form of picture signal, and the picture signal is then supplied to an outlet connector. Accordingly, when a display device or a video tape recorder is connected to the outlet connector, the object image can be displayed on the display device, or the image can be recorded on the video tape recorder.

52 citations


Patent
16 Jan 1980
TL;DR: In this article, the authors presented a method for readout of an area image sensor at greatly increased frame rates, doing so by formatting the sensor into blocks of photosite rows for purposes of readout, and modifying the method of sensor readout in a manner compatible with such format.
Abstract: Prior art electronic cameras that use solid state area image sensors are generally limited to operation at frame rates less than about 120 frames per second. Such frame rates are limited, principally, by the maximum data rate at which solid state sensors may be operated. The present invention provides methods and apparatus for readout of an area image sensor at greatly increased frame rates, doing so by formatting the sensor into blocks of photosite rows for purposes of readout, and by modifying the method of sensor readout in a manner compatible with such format.

51 citations


Patent
30 Jan 1980
TL;DR: In this article, a conventional area image sensor of the interline transfer type is configured as to be readable in blocks of adjacent photosite rows, thereby enabling the modified sensor to be read out at fast frame rates.
Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a conventional area image sensor of the interline transfer type is so configured as to be readable in blocks of adjacent photosite rows, thereby enabling the modified sensor to be read out at fast frame rates. The resulting sensor, although designed for block readout, can be produced using conventional manufacturing processes.

42 citations


Patent
17 Mar 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a back-illuminated static induction transistor (SIT) image sensor operating in the electron depletion storing mode, where the n + buried floating region 23 serves as storage region.
Abstract: This invention relates to a semiconductor image sensors and more particularly, to a back-illuminated-type static induction transistor image sensors. FIGS. 4A to 4C show the back illuminated type SIT image sensors operating in the electron depletion storing mode, where the n + buried floating region 23 serves as storage region.

39 citations


Patent
28 Aug 1980
TL;DR: A system for measuring angles, including a lens or antenna for focusing the radiation from an object scene onto an image sensor which is shifted by a clock, thereby producing the real time imaging of the object scene is detected as a pulse, representing the element angular displacement from the lens, at the output of the image sensor as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: A system for measuring angles, including a lens or antenna for focusing the radiation from an object scene onto an image sensor which is shifted by a clock, thereby producing the real time imaging of the object scene wherein each element of the object scene is detected as a pulse, representing the element angular displacement from the lens, at the output of the image sensor. A system for measuring angles of objects relative to the centerline of a lens or antenna. A goniometer for measuring the bearing of objects. A system for measuring the vector speed of objects. A velocity meter for measuring the speed of objects. A system for tracking objects. A system for motion compensation. A search, track or track-while-scan detection system. Without the lens or antenna, a system for recording and reproducing halograms.

38 citations


Patent
30 Jun 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a monolithically integrated two-dimensional image sensor having an array of sensor elements disposed in rows and columns connected by respective row and column lines is presented and a charge packet representing the signal is formed by an oppositely doped semiconductor region connected to the respective column lines which charge packet contains charge carriers generated as a result of incident radiation as well as noise signals.
Abstract: A monolithically integrated two-dimensional image sensor having an array of sensor elements disposed in rows and columns connected by respective row and column lines. A first readout of the sensor elements is undertaken and a charge packet representing the signal is formed by an oppositely doped semiconductor region connected to the respective column lines which charge packet contains charge carriers generated as a result of incident radiation as well as noise signals. A second readout of the sensor elements is undertaken for a short duration so that the charge packet generated as a result of the second readout represents only noise signals. A difference-forming stage connected to the image sensor has a storage capacitor associated with each column line for subsequently storing the two signals such that the voltage at the capacitor is displaced from a reference potential in an amount representing the difference between the two signals which thus provides a signal to a serial output device such as a charge transfer device which represents only charge carriers generated by incident radiation and is substantially noise-free. The capacitors are connected to a reset device for preparing the difference-forming stage for the next readout sequence.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A novel amorphous-silicon image sensor IC is proposed in this paper, which consists of an amorphosilicon field effect transistor (FET), a photoconductor and an MOS capacitor.
Abstract: A novel amorphous-silicon image sensor IC is proposed in this letter. The unit cell consists of an amorphous-silicon field effect transistor, an amorphous-silicon photoconductor and an MOS capacitor. The fundamental properties of the cell are investigated and operation of a prototype integrated 8-bits linear array is described.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A 1030 X 128 element time delay and integration CCD image sensor has been developed for low-light-level (L/sup 3/) imaging applications and input signal levels of 500 electrons have been successfully imaged and amplifier noise levels of approximately 20 electron levels have been observed.
Abstract: A 1030 X 128 element time delay and integration (TDI) CCD image sensor has been developed for low-light-level (L/sup 3/) imaging applications. For L/sup 3/ imaging, output is derived from a high-gain low-noise floating-gate amplifier (FGA). For larger input signal levels, a second, resettable floating-gate amplifier (RFGA) with lower gain and wider dynamic range provides output in parallel to the FGA. The device features four-phase buried-channel construction and a polysilicon gate design tailored to produce optimum broad-band responsivity. Input signal levels of 500 electrons have been successfully imaged and amplifier noise levels of approximately 20 electrons have been observed.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a 1030 × 128 element time delay and integration (TDI) CCD image sensor has been developed for low-light-level (L3) imaging applications.
Abstract: A 1030 × 128 element time delay and integration (TDI) CCD image sensor has been developed for low-light-level (L3) imaging applications. For L3imaging, output is derived from a high-gain low-noise floating-gate amplifier (FGA). For larger input signal levels, a second, resettable floating-gate amplifier (RFGA) with lower gain and wider dynamic range provides output in parallel to the FGA. The device features four-phase buried-channel construction and a polysilicon gate design tailored to produce optimum broad-band responsivity. Input signal levels of 500 electrons have been successfully imaged and amplifier noise levels of approximately 20 electrons have been observed.

Patent
Rudolf Koch1
30 Jun 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a monolithically integrated circuit for relatively slow readout of a two-dimensional image sensor and transfer of separate signal charge packets and noise charge packets from the image sensor to a pair of charge transfer devices has been proposed.
Abstract: A monolithically integrated circuit for relatively slow readout of a two-dimensional image sensor and transfer of separate signal charge packets and noise charge packets from the image sensor to a pair of charge transfer devices has first and second intermediate memories for respectively storing the signal and noise charge packets which are connected to clock pulse voltages for successively transferring the packets to the charge transfer devices. An output stage connected to the charge transfer devices contains a difference circuit for subtracting the noise signal from the total signal to generate a readout representing only the signal generated by incident radiation on the sensor.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a new organization for an area image sensor with a wide dynamic range is proposed, in which an XY photodiode-MOS switch array is combined with an analog CCD readout shift register through a "charge priming transfer" function.
Abstract: A new organization for an area image sensor with a wide dynamic range is proposed, in which an XY photodiode-MOS switch array is combined with an analog CCD readout shift register through a "charge priming transfer (CPT)" function. It is shown that use of the CPT makes the transfer of small signal charge from large capacitance vertical transport lines to the horizontal CCD strikingly efficient. The operating principle of the new device organization and some preliminary experimental results with a 404(H) × 256(V) element image sensor are reported.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The key software developed for the SCAN is a vehicle detection and tracking algorithm which reduces the TV image data to vehicle descriptions and trajectories which can be easily reduced to a wide range of traffic parameters.
Abstract: The sensor for control of arterials and networks (SCAN) uses imaging technology and processing technology to jointly provide real-time quantification. The SCAN concept consists of a television camera mounted on a pole to obtain images of the traffic, and a microprocessor to process the image data into traffic parameters. The current activities focus on the development of SCAN for surveillance of arterials or urban highways. If these efforts are successful, an attempt will be made to extend the concept to network applications. The key software developed for the SCAN is a vehicle detection and tracking algorithm which reduces the TV image data to vehicle descriptions and trajectories. These preprocessed trajectory data can be transmitted over a phone line or can be easily reduced to a wide range of traffic parameters. A SCAN breadboard has been implemented and installed in a van which enables remote field tests and evaluations. The SCAN breadboard and its operation, evaluation, and potential applications are described.


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Experimental results indicate that the CCD imager can be used to combine real-time analog image processing with subsequent digital processing to form a powerful image acquisition and processing system.
Abstract: A new type of silicon charge coupled device (CCD) imager which provides nine simultaneous video outputs representing a 3X3 pixel block that scans the imaging array has been used to emphasize edges and fine detail in various images. The device can also compensate for nonuniform scene illumination. Experimental results indicate that the device can be used to combine real-time analog image processing with subsequent digital processing to form a powerful image acquisition and processing system.

Proceedings ArticleDOI
01 Jan 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a 384(H) × 490(V) element interline CCD image sensor, using PN+ junction photodiodes without overlayer electrodes, a low-noise charge detector and CCD registers with large charge-handling capability, is discussed.
Abstract: A 384(H) × 490(V) element interline CCD image sensor, using PN+ junction photodiodes without overlayer electrodes, a low-noise charge detector and CCD registers with large charge-handling capability, will be discussed. SNR is 71dB at device saturation light level of 1.51ux.

Patent
17 Nov 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a two-dimensional array of image sensing elements having a width equal to the width of projected image of a film frame and a height equal to projection image of 2+X/Y film frames is used to produce an imagewise pattern of photocharge and the sensing array is operated to move the pattern accumulated in the array in synchronism with the moving image.
Abstract: A frame-rate converting film scanner includes means for continuously advancing film at a selected frame rate and for projecting an image of the moving film onto a solid state image sensor for producing a television signal at a standard television field rate. The solid state image sensor includes: (1) a two-dimensional array of image sensing elements having a width equal to the width of the projected image of a film frame and a height equal ot the projected image of 2+X/Y film frames, where X is the projection rate of the film in frames per second and Y is the field rate of the standard video signal in fields per second, (2) a two-dimensional frame storage array, (3) an output register, and (4) a "drain gate" disposed between the image sensing array and the frame storage array and operable in a first mode to transfer signals from the image sensing array to the storage array and in a second mode to drain signals from the image sensing array. The image of the moving film is projected on the image sensing array to produce an imagewise pattern of photocharge and the sensing array is operated to move the pattern of photocharge accumulated in the array in synchronism with the moving image. As lines of photocharge are advanced to the top of the sensing array, they are dumped by the drain gate. After a predetermined exposure time, a full frame of photocharge is rapidly transferred to the temporary storage array from the image sensing array via the drain gate. The frame of photocharge is read out of the storage array at the standard video field rate via the output register while a new pattern of photocharge is accumulated in the image sensing array. The scanning apparatus includes timing means for keeping track of the location of moving film frames with respect to the image sensing array and clocking means associated with the timing means for rapidly shifting a complete frame's worth of charge into the temporary storage array.

Patent
Masaru Noda1, Toshio Murakami1
02 Oct 1980
TL;DR: In this article, a signal processing circuit for use in a solid-state camera having a solidstate image sensor for converting picture elements composing an optical image to electrical signals is presented.
Abstract: In a signal processing circuit for use in a solid-state camera having a solid-state image sensor for converting picture elements composing an optical image to electrical signals. The circuit comprises a sensor for sequentially sensing the electrical signals representing the picture elements output of the solid-state image sensor, a converter for converting the output signal of the sensor into a first and a second signal which are respectively in phase with and opposite phase to the output signal of the sensor, first and second integrators for integrating the first and second signals for each picture element respectively, and a differential amplifier for producing an output signal representing a difference between two outputs of the first and second integrator as a video signal.

Patent
19 Jun 1980
TL;DR: In this article, an automated opto-electronic test system for quality control of two-dimensional elements with high geometric figure density, such as printed circuits, intermediate printed circuit products, and printing tools has been presented.
Abstract: An automated opto-electronic test system for quality control of two-dimensional elements with high geometric figure density, such as printed circuits, intermediate printed circuit products, and printing tools has a semiconductor image sensor disposed above a compound table having a position sensor which moves the test specimen beneath a lens in a meandering path at a velocity which is known relative to the semiconductor image sensor The signals from the image sensor are first analyzed in an analog signal pre-precessor to which are connected a number of error recognition circuits operating in parallel each of which produces an error report which is transmitted to an error coordinating circuit The error reports are therein associated with position coordinates on the test specimen which are supplied by the position sensor of the compound table and stored until a complete scan of the test specimen has been undertaken and are subsequently employed to move the test specimen to the positions at which the errors occur for visual examination such as by magnification If the test specimen is a printed circuit, tests which are undertaken are a minimum geometry test measuring respective track and insulation widths, a solder eye test and a special geometry test for open and short circuits

Patent
31 Mar 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a projection and scanning system for synchronization of photographic film projection with vertical sync pulses is presented, where developed photographic film is advanced into a projection gate which is larger than the vertical height of an individual photographic frame, and the projected image reflected onto a charge-coupled image sensor which can be used to provide information for a video signal.
Abstract: A projection and scanning system for synchronization of photographic film projection with vertical sync pulses is taught. In this system, developed photographic film is advanced into a projection gate which is larger than the vertical height of an individual photographic frame. As a given film frame passes through the projection gate, it is repeatedly scanned by a mirror and the projected image reflected onto a charge-coupled image sensor which can be used to provide information for a video signal. Perforations on the film enable pulses to be developed at a photocell which are a function of film speed. By processing these pulses, along with vertical sync pulses and appropriate control waveforms, accurate scanning of the film can be achieved, enabling video signals resulting in flickerless television transmissions to be generated.

Patent
16 Jun 1980
TL;DR: In this article, a white diffussing board is used to make accurate shading corrections in a broad dynamic range by storing a calibrating signal, generated by a white diffusion board, in a digital memory and then by dividing picture information from an image sensor by its output signal.
Abstract: PURPOSE:To make accurate shading corrections in a broad dynamic range by storing a calibrating signal, generated by a white diffussing board, in a digital memory and then by dividing picture information from an image sensor by its output signal. CONSTITUTION:On an edge part on original table 7, standard white diffusion board 9 is arranged in parallel to original 3 and before a scan on original 3, information on board 9 is obtained by fixed image sensor 6 by scanning diffusing board 9 and used as a calibrating signal for a shading componet. During the scan on board 9, change-over switch 10 is connected to contact (a) to code the calibrating signal of sensor 6 by A/D converter 11 and the coded signal is stored in digital memory 12. During the scan on original 3, it is connected to contact (b) to input original information from sensor 6 to divider circuit 13. A signal in memory 12, on the other hand, is outputted synchronizing with every single read and circuit 13 divides the original information to output picture information with no shading component.

Patent
28 Nov 1980
TL;DR: An intensified charge coupled image sensor as discussed by the authors consists of an inverter image intensifier tube having an evacuated envelope with a longitudinally extending optical axis and a charge coupled device spaced from the cathode.
Abstract: An intensified charge coupled image sensor comprises an inverter image intensifier tube having an evacuated envelope with a longitudinally extending optical axis. The sensor has a photoemissive cathode and a charge coupled device spaced from the cathode. The charge coupled device includes an A register, a B register, a C register and a plurality of electrodes disposed on a surface thereof. The charge coupled device is resiliently held by a holder plate which has an imaging aperture therethrough. In the preferred embodiment, the imaging aperture is centered about the optical axis and permits electron emission from the cathode to impinge upon at least a portion of the A and B register. Other imaging aperture configurations limit electron impingement to a single column of pixels in the A and B registers and to the A register only. A universal header having a header aperture with a center slightly displaced in at least one dimension from the optical axis of the sensor accommodates a holder plate having any one of the aforementioned imaging aperture configurations. A plurality of electrical contact pads are disposed on one surface of the header. The number of contact pads exceeds the number of electrodes required for the operation of the charge coupled device with any one particular imaging aperture; however, the header has a sufficient number of contact pads to accommodate any of the above-mentioned imaging aperture configurations.

Patent
11 Jul 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a circuit for sensor-controlled distance measurement with two linear image sensors is described, where the sensor signals are subjected to correlation measurements, from which the range of the object is determined.
Abstract: A circuit for sensor-controlled distance measurement with two linear image sensors is disclosed. These sensors are exposed to lines corresponding to two images derived from one object. The sensor signals are subjected to correlation measurements, from which the range of the object is determined. An exposure-measuring circuit determines the optimum integration time of the sensor elements. A comparing sensor element of the exposure-measuring circuit is provided in a strip-shape and co-integrated on the semiconductor member. It is positioned for exposure to an optically generated charge quantity which corresponds to a plurality of sensor elements in at least one of the image sensors. The comparison sensor element is designed as a strip-shaped photodiode arranged next to the sensor element row in at least one of the image sensors. Above a zone of the semiconductor member between the sensor element row and the comparison sensor element a gate separated by a thin insulating layer is provided and which is subjected to a constant voltage.

Patent
11 Jul 1980
TL;DR: In this paper, a sensor-controlled distance measurement with two linear image sensors is described, where the sensor signals are subjected to correlation measurements, from which the range of the object is determined.
Abstract: A circuit for sensor-controlled distance measurement with two linear image sensors is disclosed. These sensors are exposed to lines corresponding to two images derived from one object. The sensor signals are subjected to correlation measurements, from which the range of the object is determined. An exposure-measuring circuit determines the optimum integration time of the sensor elements. In the case of such circuits, one sets as exact a distance measurement as possible. For this purpose, comparing sensor elements of the exposure-measuring circuit, which are provided with a mean value of the exposure of many sensor locations, are designed such that they extend only over a part of the sensor lines. They are arranged in a sequence which runs along the entire sensor line. A separate controlling of the optimum integration time proceeds over individual line portions. A range of application for the invention encompasses photographic and electronic cameras.

Patent
26 Aug 1980
TL;DR: In this article, a sensor-controlled distance measurement circuit is described, in which the sensor signals are digitalized in evaluators, then read via transfer transistors into shift registers, which undertake relative position displacements of sensor signals in a longitudinal direction of the image sensors between individual signal cycles, and are subject to a correlation measurement.
Abstract: A circuit for sensor controlled distance measurement is disclosed having two linear image sensors which are positioned to receive corresponding lines of two images derived from an object. The sensor signals are subjected to correlation measurements from which the distance of the object is determined. In the case of circuits of this sort, one endeavors to attain as exact and unfalsified a distance measurement as possible. For this purpose, the sensor signals are digitalized in evaluators, then read via transfer transistors into shift registers which undertake relative position displacements of the sensor signals in a longitudinal direction of the image sensors between individual signal cycles, and are subject to a correlation measurement. The circuit distinguishes itself in that the digital evaluation proceeds completely independently of parameters of the shift register and is thus carried out very precisely. Applications include photographic and electronic cameras.

Patent
17 Nov 1980
TL;DR: In this article, an image input device comprises an image source (11) which generates an image light and a light sensor (12) facing the image source, the image light is divided into a number of components by an image dividing device (13, 14, 15).
Abstract: An image input device comprises an image source (11) which generates an image light and a light sensor (12) facing the image source. The image light is divided into a number of components by an image dividing device (13, 14, 15). The light sensor (12) contains a number of photoelectric converting elements, the number of photoelectric converting elements being smaller than the number of components constituting the image light. The image dividing device is placed between the light sensor and the image source to divide the image light into components in a predetermined timed order. The photoelectric converting elements are thereby irradiated in the predetermined timed order and the electrical signals generated by these photoelectric elements are read out in this same predetermined timed order and stored in a memory.