CMOS Sensor State Map for Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CMOS image sensors face challenges in precise timing control due to the use of both real-time and non-real-time signals, leading to complex interactions and limited versatility in operations.
Innovation Solution
A state map is implemented to control CMOS sensor operations, comprising locations with destination states and exit criteria, allowing for simplified management of real-time and non-real-time signals through a table-based architecture that includes registers for storing data values and variable inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time signals and non-real-time signals are used to communicate with the image sensor, then the image sensor can be controlled, but the timing control precision deteriorates and the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control signals into two distinct types: real-time signals for precise timing control and non-real-time signals for configuration and data transfer. This segmentation allows each signal type to be optimized for its specific purpose, preventing the interference and complexity that arises from mixing signal types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a buffer register as an intermediary component between the processor and the image sensor. This buffer register temporarily stores data and timing information, allowing the processor to communicate configuration data via non-real-time signals while the actual timing-critical operations are executed using real-time signals from the dedicated timing circuitry.
2Ease of operation
If a state map architecture is implemented to simplify signal interactions, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional control structures
Solution Approach 1:
The state map architecture pre-defines all possible operational states and transitions in a structured table format. By preliminary organizing the control logic into discrete states and transitions, the system eliminates the need for complex runtime decision-making, as the next state is determined by predefined transition conditions rather than complex real-time calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter representation from complex signal interaction patterns to simple state transition codes. Each operational mode is represented as a discrete state with associated parameters, allowing the control system to operate by changing between predefined states rather than managing complex signal timing and interactions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional signal communication methods are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the adaptability for multiple applications and complex operations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The state map architecture provides a universal control framework that can accommodate multiple applications and operational modes through a single unified structure. By defining generic state transitions that can be configured for different applications (e.g., video mode, still image mode, different frame rates), the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate control circuits for each application.
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
This solution enhances the functionality and reliability of CMOS sensors by simplifying interactions between real-time and non-real-time signals, enabling more complex and versatile operations while reducing costs and increasing performance.
Implementation Method 1
The CMOS photodetector can absorb electromagnetic radiation in or around the visible spectrum (or more typically a subset of the visible spectrum—such as blue wavelengths, red wavelengths, green wavelengths, etc.), and output an electronic signal proportionate to the electromagnetic energy absorbed.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided to implement a state map to control operations of a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. The state map can be a table comprising one or more locations. Each of the locations can comprise a destination state to define the operations of the sensor and an exit criterion to advance to a next location in the state map. For example, an operation sequence can be implemented using the state map to instruct the CMOS sensor to perform a specific set of operations. Further, a data value to represent the destination state and/or a variable input can be stored in a writable address of a register. Thus, a simplified architecture can be provided to implement CMOS sensor operation states, for instance, to improve interactions between real time and non-real time signals and to increase functionality of the CMOS sensor.