High dynamic range sensor with reduced line memory for color interpolation

摘要

An image sensor has an array of pixels organized into a row and column format. Pixels are read out in a line-by-line sequence and buffered in a line image buffer. An extended dynamic range is supported by varying a column exposure time according to a periodic sequence. As a result, the pixel exposure times vary within each row. A high dynamic range is generated by combining pixel data of adjacent pixels within the same row that are of the same filter type but having different exposure times. Color interpolation is performed on the combined line data.