Dual-mode tdi/raster-scan television camera system

Abstract

A mode selecting switch (74) selectively interconnects one of an external timing signal from a tachometer (32) and master timing signals from a raster-scan synchronization generator (70) with a sensor line shift timing generator (76). In a time delay and integration mode, the sensor line shift timing generator causes the CCD arrays of an image section (22) and storage section (24) to shift pixel values down the CCD arrays at a rate commensurate with the external timing signal. As a spot of light emanating from a portion of an object moving through an examination region moves along the CCD array, a corresponding pixel charge is shifted through the CCD array at the same speed such that the same pixel charge integrates light from the same spot as it moves the entire length of the CCD array. In a raster-scan mode, the mode selecting switch connects master timing signals from the raster scan sync generator to the sensor line shift timing generator which generates conventional raster-scan timing signals. An output register timing generator (78) generates timing signals under control of an oscillator (80) for output registers (26) such that an output signal is produced that is compatible with EIA-170 television signal standard. Video processing channels (50) and a video synchronization circuit (60) process the output signals to produce a composite video signal.