Image sensors, their readout methods, and electronic devices

Abstract

This application discloses an image sensor, its readout method, and an electronic device, relating to the field of image sensor technology. The image sensor includes: a pixel array comprising multiple basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly photosensitive pixel area; wherein the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area includes at least a first row of basic pixel units and a first column of basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used for photosensitive sensing and conversion into effective color pixel signals; the first row of basic pixel units and the first column of basic pixel units are configured with weak light-transmitting filters; the weak light-transmitting filters are blue filters or red filters; a control module electrically connected to the pixel array; capable of reducing signal bandwidth and reducing the requirements for the setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of image sensor technology, and in particular to an image sensor, its reading method, and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Image sensors are widely used in mobile phones, security monitoring, automobiles, and medical, industrial, and other applications. With the advancement and development of Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor (CIS) technology, image sensors are demanding increasingly higher power consumption and higher resolution (high definition) in addition to miniaturization and integration. Chip size and image quality are particularly important in medical (e.g., endoscopy) and industrial endoscopic inspection fields, posing challenges to chip design. In applications transmitting high-quality image information over long-distance (meter-level) wires, the wires are typically relatively thin and have high resistance and high capacitance, resulting in significant low-pass filtering. Therefore, high-frequency, large-amplitude image signal changes cannot be effectively transmitted through the cable conductor, leading to a degradation in image quality.

[0003] Most existing image sensors use the Bayer RGB image format, reading out column by column in a row, i.e., alternating output of the B and G color components or alternating output of the R and G color components. Because the sensitivity differences between the B and G color components, and between the R and G color components, are significant, the image signal variations between adjacent pixels in a row are substantial, increasing the signal slew rate and the equivalent bandwidth. Furthermore, the excessively large signal slew rate requires the readout and drive circuits to have strong driving capabilities and fast settling times, placing high demands on the design of the drive circuits. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes an image sensor, its reading method, and an electronic device, which can achieve stable establishment and driving of the initial signal for each line while reducing signal bandwidth, reducing current surges to the system power supply, and reducing the requirements for setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an image sensor, including:

[0006] A pixel array comprising multiple basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly photosensitive pixel area; wherein, the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area includes at least a first row of basic pixel units and a first column of basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used to sense light and convert it into effective color pixel signals; the first row of basic pixel units and the first column of basic pixel units are configured with weak light transmission filters; the weak light transmission filters are blue filters or red filters;

[0007] The control module is electrically connected to the pixel array;

[0008] The control module is used to: perform signal reading processing on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area, serially read out the color pixel signals of all even columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row, and then serially read out the color pixel signals of all odd columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row; wherein, the first column of the basic pixel unit is the first even column;

[0009] After completing the signal reading and processing for the basic pixel units in the first row, the signal reading and processing is performed on the basic pixel units in each row in sequence. After reading out the color pixel signals of all even columns serially, the color pixel signals of all odd columns are read out serially.

[0010] After reading all the color pixel signals of all rows, an image signal is generated based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area.

[0011] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a reading method for an image sensor, applied to a control module of an image sensor as described in any of the embodiments of the first aspect. The image sensor includes: a pixel array and a control module; the control module is electrically connected to the pixel array; wherein the pixel array includes a plurality of basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weak light-sensitive pixel area; wherein the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area includes at least a first row of the basic pixel units and a first column of the basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used to sense light and convert it into an effective color pixel signal; the first row of the basic pixel units and the first column of the basic pixel units are configured with a weak light-transmitting filter; the weak light-transmitting filter is a blue filter or a red filter;

[0012] The method includes:

[0013] Signal reading processing is performed on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area. After reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row in a preset reading order, the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row are read out in a preset reading order; wherein, the first column of the basic pixel unit is the first even-numbered column.

[0014] After completing the signal reading processing for the basic pixel units in the first row, the signal reading processing is performed on the basic pixel units in each row according to the preset reading order. After reading out the color pixel signals of all even columns serially, the color pixel signals of all odd columns are read out serially.

[0015] After all the color pixel signals of all rows have been read, an image signal is generated based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area.

[0016] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device including an image sensor as described in any of the embodiments of the first aspect.

[0017] The embodiments of this application include:

[0018] An image sensor includes a pixel array and a control module, the control module being electrically connected to the pixel array; the pixel array includes a plurality of basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weak light-sensitive pixel area; wherein, the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area includes at least a first row of the basic pixel units and a first column of the basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used for light sensing and conversion into effective color pixel signals; the first row of the basic pixel units and the first column of the basic pixel units are configured with weak light-transmitting filters; the weak light-transmitting filters are blue filters or red filters; in the process of acquiring image signals using the image sensor, firstly, through the control... The module performs signal reading processing on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area. After serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row, it serially reads out the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row. The first column of the basic pixel unit is the first even-numbered column. Next, after completing the signal reading processing on the basic pixel unit of the first row, the module performs the signal reading processing on the basic pixel unit of each row in sequence. After serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns, it serially reads out the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns. Finally, after reading out the color pixel signals of all rows, the module generates an image signal based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area. By dividing the pixel array into an effective pixel area and an edge weak light-sensitive pixel area, with the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area including at least the first row and first column of basic pixel units configured with weak light-transmitting filters, a certain light-blocking effect is achieved by utilizing the characteristics of the weak light-transmitting filters, which have lower sensitivity and smaller image signals acquired under the same conditions. In particular, by setting the basic pixel units in the first column as weak light-transmitting filters, the brightness value of the first basic pixel unit in each row is limited to be too large. During the process of reading the signal acquired by the pixel array, the color pixel signal value of the first basic pixel unit read in each row is smaller, while the color pixel signal value of the second basic pixel unit is at a normal size. This results in a gradual increase in the read value when reading each row, thereby reducing the signal slew rate and signal bandwidth. This helps to reduce the requirements for the driving capability and setup time of the driving circuit, and also reduces the impact on the power supply current, thus lowering the overall bandwidth design requirements. In other words, the embodiments of this application can achieve stable establishment and driving of the initial signal of each row while reducing the signal bandwidth, reducing the current impact on the system power supply, and reducing the requirements for the setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit.

[0019] Other features and advantages of this application will be set forth in the following description and will be apparent in part from the description or may be learned by practicing the application. The objectives and other advantages of this application may be realized and obtained by means of the structures particularly pointed out in the description and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image sensor provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of an image sensor provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pixel color array commonly used in image sensors;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the pixel array of the image sensor provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the pixel array of the image sensor provided in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the pixel array of the image sensor provided in Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of an image sensor reading method provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0028] It should be understood that in the description of this application, the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0029] It should be noted that although a logical order is shown in the flowcharts in this application, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be performed in a different order than that shown in the flowcharts. In the description of this application, "several" means one or more, and "more" means two or more. The terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated, or implicitly indicating the order in which the technical features are indicated.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit this application.

[0031] First, let me explain some of the terms used in this application:

[0032] Optical black lines, also known as optical black areas or OB pixels, are pixel areas on an image sensor chip that are permanently covered by a metallic light-shielding layer. Because these pixels cannot receive any light at all, they theoretically output an absolutely "black" signal (i.e., zero level). The main function of optical black lines is to provide a reference "black level" for calibrating image signals.

[0033] Shading effect: Often referred to as shadow or vignetting, this refers to the phenomenon where the center of an image is brighter than the edges, or where colors are uneven. It is a flaw in brightness or color uniformity caused by physical limitations during the actual imaging process. Camera manufacturers actively compensate for and eliminate this effect through software algorithms combined with lens and sensor calibration data.

[0034] This application provides an image sensor, an image sensor readout method, and an electronic device, relating to the field of image sensor technology. The image sensor includes: a pixel array comprising multiple basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly photosensitive pixel area; wherein the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area includes at least a first row of basic pixel units and a first column of basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used for photosensitive sensing and conversion into effective color pixel signals; the first row of basic pixel units and the first column of basic pixel units are configured with a weak light-transmitting filter; the weak light-transmitting filter is a blue filter or a red filter; a control module electrically connected to the pixel array; capable of reducing signal bandwidth and reducing the requirements for setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit.

[0035] The embodiments of this application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image sensor provided in one embodiment of this application; the image sensor 1000 includes: a pixel array 100 and a control module 200, the control module 200 being electrically connected to the pixel array 100. The pixel array 100 includes a plurality of basic pixel units 110 arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array 100 is divided into an effective pixel area 102 and an edge weak light-sensitive pixel area 101. Figure 1The shadow area in the pixel array); wherein, the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area 101 includes at least a first row of basic pixel units 110 and a first column of basic pixel units 110; the basic pixel units 110 in the effective pixel area 102 are used to sense light and convert it into an effective color pixel signal; the first row of basic pixel units 110 and the first column of basic pixel units 110 are configured with weak light-transmitting filters.

[0037] As can be understood, pixel array 100 refers to the area on the image sensor chip composed of millions or even hundreds of millions of independent photosensitive units (i.e., "basic pixel units") arranged neatly in rows and columns. Each basic pixel unit 110 is used to collect light signals and perform photoelectric conversion to obtain electrical signals.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of an image sensor provided in one embodiment of this application. Specifically, the control module 200 includes: a main control circuit, a timing clock control module, a sampling and reading module, and a data processing module; wherein, the sampling and reading module includes: a sampling processing circuit and a readout control circuit. The image sensor also includes: a power supply module and an interface module. Specifically, the control output terminal of the main control circuit is electrically connected to the pixel array, and the output terminal of the timing clock control module is connected to the input terminals of the main control circuit and the sampling and reading module, respectively. The output terminal of the sampling and reading module is connected to the input terminal of the data processing module, and the output terminal of the data processing module is connected to the interface module; the sampling and reading module is electrically connected to the pixel array. The interface module is used for electrical connection with other external devices. The power supply module is used to supply power to the various modules and circuits in the image sensor.

[0039] Furthermore, the pixel array provided in the embodiments of this application will be further described.

[0040] It is understandable that, such as Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a common pixel color array in an image sensor. As can be seen, the common pixel color array uses the Bayer RGB image format. When reading signals from this array, it is read column by column, row by row, alternating between B and G color components or R and G color components. Because the sensitivity differences between B and G, and R and G color components are significant, the image signal variation between adjacent pixels in a row is large, increasing the signal slew rate and equivalent bandwidth. Furthermore, the excessively large signal slew rate requires strong driving capability and fast settling time from the readout and drive circuits, placing high demands on the design of the drive circuit. To transmit high-quality image signals over low-bandwidth cables, this is generally achieved by reducing the bandwidth of the image signal. Currently, this is achieved through monochrome and color modes. Monochrome mode refers to the use of monochrome (black and white) pixel arrays in linear image sensor products with analog interface outputs, minimizing the difference in signal amplitude between adjacent pixels to reduce bandwidth. Color mode refers to the method of reading out all four colors individually for every two rows, which can minimize signal transmission bandwidth and improve image quality. However, in color mode, the shading effect of optical black lines is poor, and the first pixel of each line still has a large swing, which requires the readout circuit to have a large driving capability and a fast settling time, which is not conducive to the design of the readout driving circuit.

[0041] Based on this, in order to reduce signal bandwidth while maintaining the shading effect of optical black lines, as well as the stable establishment and driving of the initial signal of each line, reducing the current impact on the system power supply, and reducing the requirements for the setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit; a certain number of lines (usually greater than or equal to 1 line) are generally set above the image sensor for optical black lines. In order to better achieve the shading effect, such as Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the pixel array of the image sensor provided in Embodiment 1 of this application; Embodiment 1: In the pixel array 100, the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area 101 includes at least a first row of basic pixel units 110 and a first column of basic pixel units 110; and in this embodiment of the application, each basic pixel unit in the optical black row is replaced with a blue (or red) color filter. The pixel sensitivity of these two colors is relatively small, and the image signal is also smaller under the same conditions, thereby achieving a certain light-blocking effect.

[0042] Understandably, in Figure 4 In the pixel array shown, the first row of basic pixel units is marked as 0 (the first even-numbered row) from top to bottom, and the rows are sorted by incrementing by 1 in turn; the first column of basic pixel units is marked as 0 (the first even-numbered column) from right to left, and the columns are sorted by incrementing by 1 in turn.

[0043] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the pixel array of the image sensor provided in Embodiment 2 of this application. According to some embodiments of this application, in Embodiment 2: the pixel array 100 further includes a weakly photosensitive pixel area at the edge, namely: a base pixel unit in the last row and a base pixel unit in the last column, so that the weakly photosensitive pixel area at the edge surrounds the effective pixel area. Specifically, in the pixel array shown in Embodiment 2, the weakly photosensitive pixel area at the edge includes: a base pixel unit in the first row, a base pixel unit in the first column, a base pixel unit in the last row, and a base pixel unit in the last column.

[0044] Understandable, Figure 5 Is Figure 4 Based on the improvements, considering that the image needs to be flipped horizontally or vertically during actual image reading, the first pixel to be read needs to be read sequentially from the first pixel in the upper left corner to the right and down line by line; or from the first pixel in the lower left corner to the right and up line by line; or from the first pixel in the lower right corner to the left and up line by line.

[0045] like Figure 6 As shown, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the pixel array of the image sensor provided in Embodiment 3 of this application; according to some embodiments of this application, Embodiment 3: In the pixel array 100, the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area further includes: multiple rows of basic pixel units and multiple columns of basic pixel units, so that the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area surrounds or semi-surrounds the effective pixel area.

[0046] The edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area in Embodiment 3 includes a total of four rows and four columns of basic pixel units. It is understood that the edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area may also include: four rows and six columns, or four rows and two columns, or six rows and six columns of basic pixel units, etc. In the case where the edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area includes: multiple rows of basic pixel units and multiple columns of basic pixel units, this application does not impose specific limitations on the number of rows and columns.

[0047] According to some embodiments of this application, the low-light-transmitting filter is a blue filter or a red filter. It is understood that blue and red filters have lower pixel sensitivity and, under the same conditions, lower image signal, thereby achieving a certain light-blocking effect.

[0048] According to some embodiments of this application, all basic pixel units in the edge low-light-sensitivity pixel area are configured with a low-light-transmitting filter of the same color. Specifically, as shown in... Figures 3 to 5As shown, all basic pixel units in the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area are configured with a blue filter (B). It is understood that, in another embodiment, all basic pixel units in the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area may be configured with a red filter (R). It is understood that this application uses a weakly transparent filter to weaken the photosensitive properties of the pixel diodes below the weakly transparent filter.

[0049] According to some embodiments of this application, basic pixel units in different rows are configured with low-light-transmitting filters of different colors, and basic pixel units in the same row are configured with low-light-transmitting filters of the same color. It is understood that setting the monochrome pixels of multi-row, multi-column basic pixel units can be achieved by setting different colors for different rows, for example: the first row is entirely red filters (R), the second row is entirely blue filters (B), and the third row is entirely red filters (R).

[0050] According to some embodiments of this application, the basic pixel units in different columns are configured with low-light transmission filters of different colors, and the basic pixel units in the same column are configured with low-light transmission filters of the same color. It is understood that the monochrome pixel setting of the multi-row, multi-column basic pixel units can be to set different columns to different colors, for example: the first column is all red filters (R), the second column is all blue filters (B), and the third column is all red filters (R).

[0051] It is understood that the RGB mentioned in the above embodiments can also be any color combination such as CMY (Cyan-Magenta-Yellow) or black and white.

[0052] When this application embodiment performs special color settings for a single row and single column, it is different from... Figure 3 The distribution consists of one or more color combinations with low light transmittance. Specifically, the edge low-light-sensitivity pixel areas can be configured with two rows and four columns of monochrome pixels or four rows and two columns of monochrome pixels. However, it does not necessarily have to be monochrome; it can be one or more combinations of low-high luminosity pixels such as B and R, as long as the light sensitivity is low. Whether it is monochrome or not is not important, as long as the reading order is such that the light sensitivity gradually increases from the edge to normal.

[0053] Specifically, the control module is used to: First, during the process of acquiring image signals using the image sensor, perform signal reading processing on the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area through the control module, serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row, and then serially reading out the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row; wherein, the first column of basic pixel unit is the first even-numbered column; Second, after completing the signal reading processing on the basic pixel unit of the first row, perform signal reading processing on the basic pixel unit of each row in sequence, serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns, and then serially reading out the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns; Finally, after reading out the color pixel signals of all rows, generate an image signal based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area. By dividing the pixel array into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly sensitive pixel area, with the edge weakly sensitive pixel area including at least a first row of basic pixel units and a first column of basic pixel units configured with a weak light-transmitting filter, a certain light-blocking effect is achieved by utilizing the characteristics of the weak light-transmitting filter, which has lower sensitivity and smaller image signal under the same conditions. In particular, by setting the basic pixel units of the first column as weak light-transmitting filters, the brightness value of the first basic pixel unit in each row is limited to be too large. During the process of reading the signal acquired by the pixel array, the color pixel signal value of the first basic pixel unit read in each row is smaller, while the color pixel signal value of the second basic pixel unit is of normal size. Thus, the read value gradually increases when reading each row, thereby reducing the signal slew rate and reducing the signal bandwidth. This helps to reduce the requirements for the driving capability and setup time of the driving circuit, and reduces the impact on the power supply current, thus reducing the overall bandwidth design requirements. In other words, the embodiments of this application can achieve stable establishment and driving of the initial signal of each row while reducing the signal bandwidth, reducing the current impact on the system power supply, and reducing the requirements for the setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit.

[0054] Those skilled in the art will understand that the system structure shown in the figures does not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application, and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0055] The system embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0056] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the system architecture and application scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. It is known by those skilled in the art that with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new application scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0057] Based on the above system structure, various embodiments of the image sensor reading method of this application are proposed below.

[0058] Secondly, such as Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of an image sensor reading method provided in one embodiment of this application; this application provides an image sensor reading method, applied to, for example... Figure 1 The image sensor includes a control module, comprising a pixel array and a control module; the control module is electrically connected to the pixel array; wherein the pixel array includes multiple basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weak light-sensitive pixel area; wherein the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area includes at least a first row of basic pixel units and a first column of basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used for light sensing and conversion into effective color pixel signals; the first row of basic pixel units and the first column of basic pixel units are configured with weak light-transmitting filters; the weak light-transmitting filters are blue filters or red filters. The reading method of this image sensor includes, but is not limited to, steps S100 to S300.

[0059] Step S100: Perform signal reading processing on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area. After serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row according to the preset reading order, serially read out the color pixel signals of all odd columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row; wherein, the first column of basic pixel unit is the first even column.

[0060] Step S200: After completing the signal reading processing of the basic pixel units in the first row, perform signal reading processing on the basic pixel units in each row according to the preset reading order. After serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even columns, serially read out the color pixel signals of all odd columns.

[0061] Step S300: After reading all the color pixel signals of all rows, generate an image signal based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area.

[0062] According to some embodiments of this application, the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area further includes: the last row of basic pixel units and the last column of basic pixel units, so that the edge weak light-sensitive pixel area surrounds the effective pixel area; the preset reading order is: from top to bottom, from right to left; or: from bottom to top, from left to right; or: from bottom to top, from right to left.

[0063] In steps S100 to S300, during the process of acquiring image signals using an image sensor, firstly, the control module performs signal reading processing on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area, serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns in the first row of basic pixel units, and then serially reading out the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns in the first row of basic pixel units; wherein, the first column of basic pixel units is the first even-numbered column; secondly, after completing the signal reading processing on the first row of basic pixel units, the signal reading processing is performed on the basic pixel units of each row in sequence, serially reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns, and then serially reading out the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns; finally, after reading out the color pixel signals of all rows, an image signal is generated based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area. By dividing the pixel array into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly sensitive pixel area, with the edge weakly sensitive pixel area including at least a first row of basic pixel units and a first column of basic pixel units configured with a weak light-transmitting filter, a certain light-blocking effect is achieved by utilizing the characteristics of the weak light-transmitting filter, which has lower sensitivity and smaller image signal under the same conditions. In particular, by setting the basic pixel units of the first column as weak light-transmitting filters, the brightness value of the first basic pixel unit in each row is limited to be too large. During the process of reading the signal acquired by the pixel array, the color pixel signal value of the first basic pixel unit read in each row is smaller, while the color pixel signal value of the second basic pixel unit is of normal size. Thus, the read value gradually increases when reading each row, thereby reducing the signal slew rate and reducing the signal bandwidth. This helps to reduce the requirements for the driving capability and setup time of the driving circuit, and reduces the impact on the power supply current, thus reducing the overall bandwidth design requirements. In other words, the embodiments of this application can achieve stable establishment and driving of the initial signal of each row while reducing the signal bandwidth, reducing the current impact on the system power supply, and reducing the requirements for the setup time and driving capability of the driving circuit.

[0064] For example, combined with Figure 4 This paper further explains the specific process of the image sensor reading method in the embodiments of this application.

[0065] The reading method for the first row (i.e., the row with sequence number 0) is as follows: first, half of the blue pixel signals (even-numbered columns, starting from column 0) are read serially, then the other half (odd-numbered columns, starting from column 1) of the blue pixel signals are read; the pixel signals read for the first row are: BBBBB…B. Thus, to limit the brightness value of the first pixel in each row from being too large, the first column is also set to a less sensitive B (or R) pixel. This results in a smaller value for the first pixel, a normal size for the second pixel, and a gradual increase in value. This reduces the requirements for the driving capability and settling time of the output driving circuit, reduces the impact on the power supply current, and lowers the overall bandwidth design requirements.

[0066] The reading method for the second row (i.e., the row with the sequence number 1) is as follows: first, read out half of the color pixel signal serially (even-numbered columns, starting from column 0), and the result is: BGGGGGG……G; then read out the other half of the color pixel signal (odd-numbered columns, starting from column 1), and the result is: RRRRRRR……R; complete the serial reading of the entire row.

[0067] The reading method for the third row is as follows: first, read out half of the color pixel signals (even columns, starting from column 0) serially, and read out BBBBB...B; then read out the other half of the color pixel signals (odd columns, starting from column 1), and read out GGGGG...G, thus completing the serial reading of the entire row.

[0068] The readout mode of lines 2 and 3 is then repeated, which reduces the bandwidth of signal changes when reading all pixels in the entire line, thereby improving the performance and quality of the transmitted image. It is evident that this application reduces bandwidth and output requirements through initial color transition and separate color channel readout.

[0069] For example, combined with Figure 6 This paper further explains the specific process of the image sensor reading method in the embodiments of this application.

[0070] The reading method for the first row (i.e., the row with the sequence number 0) is as follows: first, read out half of the blue pixel signals (even-numbered columns, starting from column 0) serially, and then read out the other half (odd-numbered columns, starting from column 1) of the blue pixel signals; the pixel signals read out for the first row are: BBBBB…B.

[0071] The reading method for the second row (i.e., the row with the sequence number 1) is as follows: first, read out half of the blue pixel signals (even-numbered columns, starting from column 0) serially, and then read out the other half (odd-numbered columns, starting from column 1) of the blue pixel signals; the pixel signals read out for the first row are: BBBBB…B.

[0072] The reading method for the third row (i.e., the row with the serial number 2) is as follows: First, read out half of the color pixel signal (even-numbered columns, starting from column 0) serially, which is BBBBBBB……B; then read out the other half of the color pixel signal (odd-numbered columns, starting from column 1) serially: BGGG……GB.

[0073] The reading method for the 4th row (i.e., the row with the serial number 3) is as follows: first, read out half of the color pixel signal serially (even-numbered columns, starting from column 0), which is BGGG……GB; then read out the other half of the color pixel signal serially (odd-numbered columns, starting from column 1): BRRRR……RB.

[0074] The readout mode of lines 3 and 4 is repeated thereafter, which reduces the signal change bandwidth when reading all pixels in the entire line, thereby improving the performance and quality of the transmitted image.

[0075] It should be noted that, Figure 6 The double-row, double-column layout shown is more effective than a single-row, single-column layout. Figure 3 The readout order is from right to left and from top to bottom, ensuring a smooth transition. When reading from left to right or from bottom to top, it requires multiple rows and columns of basic pixel units in the edge low-light-sensitivity pixel areas to ensure a smooth transition regardless of the reading direction. The image readout order sometimes needs to be changed according to settings. In cases where there are multiple rows and columns of basic pixel units in the edge low-light-sensitivity pixel areas, this application does not impose specific restrictions on the readout order.

[0076] This application embodiment also provides a storage medium, which is a computer-readable storage medium, storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the above-described image sensor reading method.

[0077] Memory, as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-transitory software programs and non-transitory computer-executable programs. Furthermore, memory may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, memory may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the processor, and these remote memories can be connected to the processor via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof. The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative, and the units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0078] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all or some of the steps and systems in the methods disclosed above can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, and suitable combinations thereof. Some or all of the physical components can be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit. Such software can be distributed on a computer-readable medium, which can include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, as is known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.

[0079] The above provides a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of this application. However, this application is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Those skilled in the art can make various equivalent modifications or substitutions without departing from the spirit of this application. All such equivalent modifications or substitutions are included within the scope defined by this application.

Claims

1. An image sensor, characterized in that, include: A pixel array comprising a plurality of basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; The pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly photosensitive pixel area; wherein, the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area includes at least the basic pixel units in the first row and the basic pixel units in the first column; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used to sense light and convert it into effective color pixel signals; the basic pixel units in the first row and the basic pixel units in the first column are configured with weak light transmission filters; the weak light transmission filters are blue filters or red filters; The control module is electrically connected to the pixel array; The control module is used to: perform signal reading processing on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area, serially read out the color pixel signals of all even columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row, and then serially read out the color pixel signals of all odd columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row; wherein, the first column of the basic pixel unit is the first even column; After completing the signal reading and processing for the basic pixel units in the first row, the signal reading and processing is performed on the basic pixel units in each row in sequence. After reading out the color pixel signals of all even columns serially, the color pixel signals of all odd columns are read out serially. After reading all the color pixel signals of all rows, an image signal is generated based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area.

2. The image sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area further includes: the basic pixel units in the last row and the basic pixel units in the last column, so that the edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area surrounds the effective pixel area.

3. The image sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area further includes: multiple rows of the basic pixel units and multiple columns of the basic pixel units, so that the edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area surrounds or partially surrounds the effective pixel area.

4. The image sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, All the basic pixel units in the edge low-light-sensitivity pixel area are equipped with a low-light-transmitting filter of the same color.

5. The image sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The basic pixel units in different rows are configured with low-light-transmitting filters of different colors, and the basic pixel units in the same row are configured with low-light-transmitting filters of the same color.

6. The image sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The basic pixel units in different columns are configured with low-light-transmitting filters of different colors, and the basic pixel units in the same column are configured with low-light-transmitting filters of the same color.

7. A method for reading an image sensor, characterized in that, A control module for an image sensor as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, the image sensor comprising: a pixel array and a control module; the control module being electrically connected to the pixel array; wherein the pixel array comprises a plurality of basic pixel units arranged in m rows and n columns; the pixel array is divided into an effective pixel area and an edge weakly photosensitive pixel area; wherein the edge weakly photosensitive pixel area comprises at least a first row of the basic pixel units and a first column of the basic pixel units; the basic pixel units in the effective pixel area are used for photosensitive sensing and conversion into effective color pixel signals; the first row of the basic pixel units and the first column of the basic pixel units are configured with weak light transmission filters; the weak light transmission filters are blue filters or red filters; The method includes: Signal reading processing is performed on the edge weak photosensitive pixel area. After reading out the color pixel signals of all even-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row in a preset reading order, the color pixel signals of all odd-numbered columns in the basic pixel unit of the first row are read out in a preset reading order; wherein, the first column of the basic pixel unit is the first even-numbered column. After completing the signal reading processing for the basic pixel units in the first row, the signal reading processing is performed on the basic pixel units in each row according to the preset reading order. After reading out the color pixel signals of all even columns serially, the color pixel signals of all odd columns are read out serially. After all the color pixel signals of all rows have been read, an image signal is generated based on the valid color pixel signals read from the valid pixel area.

8. The image sensor reading method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area also includes: the base pixel units in the last row and the base pixel units in the last column, so that the edge-weakly photosensitive pixel area surrounds the effective pixel area; the preset reading order is: from top to bottom, from right to left; or: from bottom to top, from left to right; or: from bottom to top, from right to left.

9. An electronic device, characterized in that, Including the image sensor as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

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