Image Sensor Bit-Depth Adjustment for Lower-Power Bayer Readout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors face challenges in reducing power consumption while maintaining an acceptable signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and image quality.
Innovation Solution
The proposed image sensing device incorporates a pixel array in a Bayer pattern and employs analog logic to convert analog signals from pixels into digital codes. This involves adjusting low-order bits of the first digital code in response to a control signal to generate a second digital code, thereby reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If full N-bit digital code processing is used, then image quality and SNR are maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the N-bit digital code into high-order bits and low-order bits, processing only the high-order bits through the image processing pipeline while discarding or simplifying processing of low-order bits. This segmentation allows the system to maintain acceptable SNR using fewer bits, thereby reducing power consumption in subsequent processing stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by processing only a portion (high-order bits) of the complete digital signal rather than the full N-bit code. This partial processing approach maintains sufficient image quality for practical purposes while significantly reducing the computational burden and power consumption associated with processing all bits.
2Measurement precision
If N-bit ADC conversion is performed, then image quality is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential high-order bits from the full N-bit digital code for further processing, removing the less significant low-order bits. This extraction reduces the data width and complexity of subsequent processing circuits while retaining sufficient image quality information.
Solution Approach 2:
By performing partial processing on only the high-order bits rather than the complete N-bit code, the patent reduces the complexity of processing circuits while maintaining acceptable image quality. The reduced bit width requires simpler logic and fewer computational resources in downstream processing stages.
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 solution effectively reduces power consumption while maintaining an acceptable SNR and image quality, making it suitable for use in various mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
a pixel array disposed in a Bayer pattern and including pixels which respectively generate electrical charge according to received light incident
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes; a pixel array disposed in a Bayer pattern and including pixels which respectively generate electrical charge according to received light incident, and an analog logic configured to convert an analog signal output from at least one pixel among the pixels into a first digital code using analog-to-digital conversion, and convert the first digital code into a second digital code by adjusting low-order bits of the first digital code in response to a control signal.