Dynamic Detector Arrays for Wide Dynamic Range Light Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensor systems face limitations in operating outside normal parameters, particularly in detecting high flux light without saturation, and require cooling or increased frame rates, which may not be suitable for all applications, and have limited dynamic range and mode of operation.
Innovation Solution
The development of a detector system with multiple light absorbers of different properties and configurations, including slits and meshes, that can dynamically adjust capacitance, frame rate, and illumination source power to prevent saturation and enhance dynamic range, allowing for accurate detection of both high and low flux light by distributing incident light among absorbers and using electrostatic tuning to vary response time and sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the integrating capacitor is set to detect high flux light, then high flux light can be detected without saturation, but low flux light detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of integrating capacitor values based on detected light flux levels. The system switches between multiple capacitor values (e.g., first capacitor value for high flux, second capacitor value for low flux) to optimize detection across different illumination conditions, preventing saturation while maintaining sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameter (capacitance) of the integrating capacitor based on the detected light flux level. By adjusting the capacitor value dynamically, the system adapts its integration capacity to match the incident light intensity, enabling accurate detection across a wide dynamic range.
2Illumination intensity
If the frame rate is increased to prevent saturation of integrating capacitors, then high flux light can be detected without saturation, but the system complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the frame rate based on the detected light flux level. Under high illumination conditions, the frame rate is increased to prevent saturation, while under low illumination conditions, the frame rate is reduced to maintain sensitivity. This dynamic adjustment simplifies the system compared to always operating at high frame rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter (frame rate) based on environmental conditions (light flux). This parameter adaptation allows the system to handle high flux light without permanent hardware modifications or excessive complexity, adjusting the readout speed to match the incident light intensity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light absorbers with different properties are used to detect both high and low flux light, then the dynamic range is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into multiple segments by using several light absorbers with different properties (e.g., different absorption coefficients, sizes, or materials). Each absorber is optimized for specific flux levels, and their combined responses enable detection across a wide dynamic range. The segmentation of detection functions extends the overall system capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves multi-functionality by having multiple light absorbers that can collectively detect both high and low flux light. Each absorber contributes to different portions of the dynamic range, and through appropriate signal processing, the system provides universal detection capability across the entire flux range without requiring separate detection systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrostatic tuning is used to vary response time and sensitivity, then the detector can adapt to different flux levels, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs electrostatic tuning to dynamically change the response time and sensitivity parameters of the light absorbers. By applying different electrostatic fields, the system adjusts the absorption characteristics and temporal response to match the incident light flux level, enabling adaptation without mechanical moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electrostatic field control. Instead of physically moving or changing components to adjust response time and sensitivity, the patent uses electrostatic tuning to achieve parameter modulation, simplifying the mechanical complexity while maintaining adaptability.
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
Enables the detection of high flux light without saturation and accurate detection of low flux light, with a wide or ultra-wide dynamic range, and the ability to operate effectively in various illumination conditions, improving image contrast and sensitivity across different flux levels.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more light absorbers can be patterned with a plurality of slits, a mesh, as a plate absorber, or a combination thereof
Implementation Method 2
The patterns of the light absorbers can be based on polarization direction. In some examples, the orientation direction of the patterns can be different and such that the detector absorbs a plurality of polarizations. The polarization of the incident light can be determined based on the plurality of light absorbers
Data Source
AI summary
This relates to sensor systems, detectors, imagers, and readout integrated circuits (ROICs) configured to selectively detect one or more frequencies or polarizations of light, capable of operating with a wide dynamic range, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the detector can include one or more light absorbers; the patterns and/or properties of a light absorber can be configured based on the desired measurement wavelength range and/or polarization direction. In some examples, the detector can comprise a plurality of at least partially overlapping light absorbers for enhanced dynamic range detection. In some examples, the detector can be capable of electrostatic tuning for one or more flux levels by varying the response time or sensitivity to account for various flux levels. In some examples, the ROIC can be capable of dynamically adjusting at least one of the frame rate integrating capacitance, and power of the illumination source.