Asymmetric Sensor Array for High-Resolution Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensor arrays face limitations in achieving high resolution images, depth of color, scene-independent image reconstruction, and low-light sensitivity due to the use of small color pixels, which result in poor signal-to-noise ratios and increased Z-height, compromising image quality.
Innovation Solution
An asymmetric sensor array is employed, featuring a central monochrome sensor for high resolution and peripheral large-pixel color sensors, which provide better signal-to-noise ratios and truer color, while the human eye's sensitivity to color is prioritized, allowing for improved image quality in low-light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If small color pixels are used in conventional sensor arrays, then the Z-height is reduced, but the signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates and image quality suffers
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array is segmented into two distinct types of sensors: monochrome sensors with small pixels for high resolution and color sensors with large pixels for color information. This segmentation allows each sensor type to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between small pixel size (for low Z-height) and large pixel size (for good signal-to-noise ratio).
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sensor array have different qualities: central monochrome sensors provide high resolution while peripheral color sensors provide accurate color. This local differentiation allows the system to achieve both low Z-height and high image quality by placing each sensor type where it is most needed.
2Area of stationary object
If conventional sensor arrays use small color pixels, then device size is reduced, but image resolution and color accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array divides imaging functions into separate monochrome and color sensor regions. Monochrome sensors use small pixels to maintain compact size while providing high resolution, and color sensors use larger pixels to capture accurate color information, together achieving both small form factor and high image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor array employs asymmetric sensor design with different pixel sizes and functions in different regions. This asymmetric arrangement allows optimization of each sensor type for its specific purpose while maintaining overall compact dimensions.
3Manufacturing precision
If computational resources are increased to combine images from conventional sensor arrays, then image quality may improve, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric sensor array performs preliminary action by capturing both high-resolution monochrome and color information simultaneously in a single image capture. This eliminates the need for complex multi-image combination processing, reducing computational resources while maintaining image quality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The asymmetric sensor array achieves high sharpness and accurate color representation with reduced computational resources, effectively addressing the limitations of conventional arrays by utilizing larger pixels for better noise handling and depth mapping.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the sensor elements is configured to image light of a respective color and generate a component of a color image signal in response to the light of the respective color incident on them
Data Source
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AI summary
This document describes techniques and apparatuses for implementing an asymmetric sensor array for capturing images. These techniques and apparatuses enable better resolution, depth of color, or low-light sensitivity than many conventional sensor arrays.