Image Sensor Parallel Pixel Output Reduces Rolling Shutter Distortion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image sensors using the rolling shutter method experience image distortion due to varying integration times across different rows of the pixel array, which existing technologies have not effectively addressed.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor design that includes a pixel array, row drivers, analog-to-digital converters, a timing generator, and a frame controller, which outputs pixel signals in parallel and performs correlated double sampling and data bus operations to generate and process digital pixel signals, reducing distortion by controlling row and frame output intervals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rolling shutter method is used to control exposure time, then integration time can be varied between different rows of the pixel array, but image distortion occurs due to different integration times for respective rows
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple pixel units, each capable of independent parallel output. This segmentation allows different rows to be read out simultaneously rather than sequentially, eliminating the rolling shutter effect while maintaining the flexibility to control integration time for different rows independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential row-by-row reading to parallel reading across multiple rows simultaneously by utilizing a second dimension of output channels. This dimensional change in the reading architecture allows all rows to capture images at the same time while maintaining adaptability in integration time control through independent pixel unit operation.
2Device complexity
If pixel signals are read out sequentially from the pixel array, then device complexity is reduced, but reading speed is limited and rolling shutter effect persists
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple pixel units with independent output capabilities. Each pixel unit can read out signals through dedicated column lines and analog-to-digital converters, enabling parallel processing and significantly increasing reading speed without requiring complex centralized control for each pixel.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pixel units are merged into a unified parallel output architecture where signals from multiple rows are combined and transmitted simultaneously through separate column lines to analog-to-digital converters. This merging approach achieves high-speed parallel reading while maintaining relatively simple individual pixel unit structures.
3Speed
If parallel output of pixel signals is implemented, then reading speed increases and rolling shutter effect is reduced, but device complexity increases due to additional control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The control function is segmented and distributed to individual pixel units rather than centralized. Each pixel unit contains its own control logic for parallel output, eliminating the need for complex centralized timing control while achieving high-speed parallel reading through independent unit operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel unit is designed to be self-sufficient with integrated control capabilities, allowing it to independently manage its signal output without requiring complex external control circuits. This self-service approach enables parallel output while keeping the overall control structure simple and distributed.
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 significantly reduces image distortion and allows for high-speed pixel signal reading, minimizing the rolling shutter effect and potentially decreasing power consumption through optimized frame rate conversion.
Implementation Method 1
An image sensor is a device that converts an optical image into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes a pixel array including a plurality of pixels configured to output pixel signals corresponding to a plurality of row lines; a row driver configured to output a plurality of control signals for controlling operations of the plurality of pixels; a plurality of analog-to-digital converters configured to perform analog-to-digital conversion on the pixel signals output from the plurality of pixels via a plurality of column lines so as to generate digital pixel signals, and to output the digital pixel signals; and a timing generator configured to generate a line control signal, the pixel array being configured to output the pixel signals corresponding to the plurality of row lines responsive to the line control signal. The pixel signals are output in a predetermined pixel unit in parallel from at least one row line among the plurality of row lines responsive to the row driver receiving the line control signal.