Image Sensor Optical Communication for Interference Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In small form factor cameras, electromagnetic interference from electrical communication paths limits data density and requires significant spacing, while magnetic sensors face calibration issues due to temperature drift and placement constraints.
Innovation Solution
The use of light signals to transmit image data between an image sensor and other camera components, employing light source modules and sensors to communicate data and determine relative positions without the need for magnetic fields or extensive recalibration, allowing for denser component packing and improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If electrical communication paths are used to transfer image data, then data transmission capability is improved, but electromagnetic interference increases and component density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical communication paths with optical communication paths. Light source modules (LEDs or lasers) convert electrical signals to optical signals for data transmission, eliminating electromagnetic interference while maintaining high data transmission capability. The optical signals travel through the substrate to reach photodetector circuits, providing a non-interfering communication medium.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (light) as the communication medium between image sensor components. Instead of direct electrical connections, electrical signals are converted to optical signals that propagate through the substrate, serving as an intermediary carrier that eliminates electromagnetic coupling and interference between communication paths.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical communication paths are spaced apart to avoid interference, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but component density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electrical communication with optical communication, allowing communication paths to be closely spaced without electromagnetic interference. Multiple light source modules and photodetector circuits can be densely integrated since optical signals do not exhibit electromagnetic coupling, enabling high component density while maintaining interference-free communication.
3Measurement precision
If magnetic sensors are used to determine component position, then positioning capability is improved, but calibration drift occurs due to temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the sensing mechanism from magnetic field-based to optical-based. Light source modules emit optical signals that propagate to photodetector circuits, and the position is determined by analyzing the optical signal characteristics. This optical parameter is inherently more stable with respect to temperature changes compared to magnetic field properties, eliminating calibration drift while maintaining positioning precision.
4Ease of operation
If Hall Effect sensors are positioned in a moving magnetic field, then sensor functionality is improved, but placement flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces magnetic field-based sensing with optical sensing. Light source modules and photodetector circuits are positioned relative to each other, and their relative position is determined through optical signal analysis. This optical arrangement eliminates the requirement for moving magnetic fields, allowing flexible placement of components without strict magnetic field positioning constraints.
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 approach enables high-density camera component integration in small form factors with reduced electromagnetic interference and eliminates calibration drift, facilitating efficient data transfer and precise positioning without the limitations of magnetic sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The image sensor includes an image capture portion and one or more light source modules located on a portion of the image sensor other than the image capture portion
Implementation Method 2
The electrical backplane on the other side of the open space from the image sensor includes one or more light sensors configured to detect light emitted from the one or more light source modules of the image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile device includes an image sensor separated from a processing component by an open space. The image sensor includes one or more light source modules and the processing component includes one or more light sensors aligned with the one or more light source modules. Image data from the image sensor may be transmitted to the processing component via light signals exchanged between the one or more light source modules and the one or more light sensors. In some embodiments, light signals transmitted between one or more light source modules of an image sensor and one or more light sensors of the processing component are used to determine positional and angular data about the image sensor.