Patent ID: 8154611
Filing Date: 2012-04-10
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A method for increasing resolution of a focal plane array having a plurality of pixels dispersed across a total pixel area, said method comprising: providing a reduced active pixel area for the focal plane array that is less than the total pixel area by effectively reducing an operating area associated with at least one pixel of the focal plane array when a signal to noise ratio at the focal plane is at a predefined threshold; acquiring image data utilizing the reduced active pixel area; storing the image data in a first portion of a memory, the memory having a capacity corresponding to the total pixel area of the focal plane array; storing subsequently acquired image data, also acquired utilizing the reduced active pixel area, in other portions of the memory, the other portions of the memory corresponding to a non-active pixel area of the total pixel area; and combining the image data from the memory portions into a single, increased resolution image.