Group Interface for Image Sensor and Neural Network Processor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing systems, including those using neural networks, do not efficiently address the processing speed and power consumption issues across the entire system, particularly when incorporating image sensors.
Innovation Solution
A photodetection apparatus and electronic equipment that includes an image sensor with a pixel group, a neural network processor with a neuron group, and a group interface for bidirectional communication between the image sensor and the processor, allowing for efficient control and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If only computing units that have generated signals are driven in a neural network hardware configuration, then power consumption is reduced, but the efficiency of the entire image processing system including the image sensor is not improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the image sensor and neural network processor into a unified system with shared communication infrastructure. The group interface serves both the image sensor's pixel groups and the neural network's neuron groups, creating an integrated architecture where data flow and control signals are coordinated across both components, thereby improving overall system efficiency while maintaining power-saving modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bidirectional communication capability enabled by the group interface allows feedback mechanisms between the image sensor and neural network processor. This enables the system to dynamically adjust operation modes, coordinate data transfer timing, and optimize resource allocation, achieving improved system-wide efficiency without sacrificing the power consumption benefits of selective computing unit activation.
2Productivity
If a group interface with bidirectional communication is provided between the image sensor and processor, then system efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The group interface is designed as a universal communication mechanism that handles multiple functions: data transmission from pixel groups to neuron groups, control signal delivery from the processor to the image sensor, and bidirectional coordination. This multi-functional design consolidates what could be multiple separate interfaces into a single versatile component, improving system efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface is organized around grouped structures (pixel groups and neuron groups) that segment the communication task into manageable units. This segmentation allows the system to handle communication in discrete, organized blocks, simplifying the interface logic while enabling efficient parallel processing and data flow management across the integrated system.
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 configuration enhances the efficiency of the entire image processing system by enabling bidirectional communication and control between the image sensor and the neural network processor, thereby improving processing speed and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
image sensor provided with a pixel group including N pixels from among a plurality of pixels arranged on a sensor surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a photodetection apparatus and electronic equipment that are allowed to achieve increased efficiency. Bidirectional communication between an image sensor provided with a pixel group including N pixels from among a plurality of pixels arranged on a sensor surface in an array and a processor in which a neural network is formed by a neuron group with M neurons is performed by a group interface provided between the image sensor and the processor. The present technology can be applied to, for example, a stacked CMOS image sensor.