{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854195","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854195","title":"Image capturing apparatus, control method for the same, and storage medium","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2016-01-22T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":13,"abstract":"An image capturing apparatus comprises a unit pixel including a plurality of light receiving elements, a plurality of column output lines provided, for each column, at a number greater than or equal to at least a number of the light receiving elements of each unit pixel, and a switching unit configured to switch between a first readout mode for reading out signals from the plurality of light receiving elements via respectively different column output lines and a second readout mode for reading out signals from the plurality of light receiving elements via the same column output line for each unit pixel."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium patent introduces an innovative image sensor architecture that dynamically switches between different readout modes to optimize for either high-speed capture or high-quality imaging. This technology addresses the inherent trade-off in conventional image sensors between readout speed and image quality. The key technical approach involves a unique pixel structure with multiple light-receiving elements and a switching unit that allows the sensor to route signals to different column output lines based on the desired mode. This innovation offers significant business value by enabling a new generation of image sensors with superior performance and versatility, applicable to a wide range of industries including digital photography, medical imaging, and industrial inspection. The market opportunity is substantial, as the demand for high-quality imaging continues to grow across various sectors, making this technology a compelling investment for companies seeking to enhance their imaging capabilities.","layman_explanation":"1. What Problem Does This Solve? (100-150 words) The Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium patent addresses a fundamental limitation in digital imaging: the trade-off between speed and quality. Current camera systems often struggle to capture fast-moving objects in low light conditions without producing blurry or noisy images. Existing solutions typically require compromises, such as reducing resolution or increasing exposure time, which can negatively impact image quality. The patent aims to provide a solution that allows for both high-speed capture and high-quality imaging simultaneously.\n\n2. How Does It Work? (200-300 words) The core innovation of this patent lies in its unique pixel architecture. Imagine each pixel in a camera sensor as a tiny bucket that collects light. Instead of having just one bucket per pixel, this patent proposes having multiple smaller buckets. These buckets can be read out individually for fast capture or combined for improved light sensitivity. Think of it like having multiple smaller cups to quickly fill a larger container, or combining the contents of those cups for a more precise measurement. A switching mechanism controls how these buckets are read out, allowing the camera to dynamically adapt to different lighting and motion conditions. This is analogous to a traffic controller directing cars to different lanes based on traffic flow, ensuring smooth and efficient movement.\n\n3. Why Does This Matter? (150-200 words) The Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium patent has the potential to significantly impact various industries. In digital photography, it could lead to cameras that can capture both high-resolution images and high-speed videos without compromising quality. In medical imaging, it could enable more accurate and detailed diagnoses, especially in applications like endoscopy and microscopy. In industrial inspection, it could improve the efficiency and reliability of quality control processes. The competitive advantages stem from its ability to overcome the inherent limitations of existing image sensor technologies, providing a superior imaging experience. The potential ROI lies in its ability to enhance product performance and create new market opportunities.\n\n4. What's Next? (50-100 words) The future applications of this technology are vast. As imaging becomes increasingly important in areas like autonomous vehicles, augmented reality, and virtual reality, the demand for high-performance image sensors will continue to grow. The Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium patent provides a solid foundation for future developments in these areas. The market adoption timeline will depend on the ability to successfully integrate this technology into existing manufacturing processes and to demonstrate its value proposition to key stakeholders. Investment implications are promising, given the potential for significant returns in a rapidly growing market.","technical_analysis":"The Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium patent presents a novel approach to image sensor design, focusing on dynamically switching between readout modes to optimize for either speed or image quality. The technical architecture centers around a unique pixel structure incorporating multiple light-receiving elements within each pixel. These elements are connected to a switching unit, which is responsible for routing signals to different column output lines. The implementation details involve sophisticated CMOS fabrication techniques to achieve the necessary integration density and switching speed. Algorithmically, the system likely employs control logic to determine the optimal readout mode based on the imaging conditions. Integration patterns would involve seamless interfacing with existing image processing pipelines. Performance characteristics are expected to show significant improvements in both readout speed and signal-to-noise ratio compared to conventional image sensors. At the code level, drivers would be needed to control the switching unit and manage the data flow from the sensor. This architecture presents opportunities for advanced image processing techniques, such as computational photography and super-resolution imaging.","business_analysis":"The Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium patent holds significant commercial potential due to its ability to address the limitations of existing image sensor technologies. The market opportunity is substantial, encompassing a wide range of industries including digital photography, medical imaging, industrial inspection, and security systems. The competitive advantage lies in the technology's ability to dynamically switch between readout modes, offering superior performance in both high-speed and low-light conditions. Revenue potential can be realized through licensing the technology to image sensor manufacturers or by developing and selling complete imaging solutions. The business model could involve a combination of upfront licensing fees and royalty payments based on sales volume. Strategic positioning would focus on targeting high-end applications where image quality and speed are critical. ROI projections are promising, given the potential for significant improvements in image sensor performance and the growing demand for advanced imaging technologies. This patent represents a valuable asset for companies seeking to gain a competitive edge in the image sensing market.","faqs":null,"topics":["image sensor","image capturing","readout speed","noise reduction","CMOS","image","capturing","apparatus"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Dynamic Image Sensor - Image Capturing Apparatus, Control Method for the Same, and Storage Medium","description":"Discover the revolutionary image capturing apparatus patent enabling high-speed & high-quality imaging. Full technical analysis, claims, and commercial applications.","keywords":["image sensor","image capturing","readout speed","noise reduction","CMOS","patent","patent US-9854195","dynamic imaging","high-speed camera","low-light imaging"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854195","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854195","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Image capturing apparatus, control method for the same, and storage medium\" (US-9854195). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854195","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854195","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854195","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T21:47:19.910Z"}