The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 30, 1996
Filed:
Jan. 12, 1994
Michael Kan, San Francisco, CA (US);
Kenneth C Kitlas, Fremont, CA (US);
Other;
Abstract
In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus and method are described which in general provide for an extended dynamic range in light sensitivity for an imaging device. This extended dynamic range is achieved primarily through control of the light intensity level in a image on a pixel by pixel basis. In one aspect, a multi-faceted light controller is used like a variable iris camera, but on a pixel by pixel basis; thereby achieving a wider range of intensity control. In another aspect, this system is enhanced by adding another controller outside the feedback loop, before an added output image detector. In yet another aspect, some or most of the elements of the controlling and detecting system may be integrated into a composite monolithic structure.