Image Sensor Pixel Group Control via Multiple Row Drivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image sensors, particularly CMOS image sensors, lack the ability to independently control multiple pixel groups, leading to inefficient operation and limited flexibility in image processing, as all pixels are often controlled by a single row driver, restricting exposure time control and data processing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple row drivers and control circuits that allow for independent control of pixel groups within a pixel array, enabling separate control of pixel operations, exposure times, and data readout, with shared or distinct control signals for each group.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple row drivers are used to independently control pixel groups, then flexibility in image processing and exposure time control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple pixel groups, with each group controlled by a dedicated row driver. This segmentation allows independent control of different pixel groups for different exposure times and processing operations, directly enabling the flexibility improvement while accepting increased device complexity through multiple control circuits
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple row drivers are designed with identical control interfaces and functionality, allowing each driver to handle different pixel groups using the same control signal structure. This multi-functionality approach enables flexible image processing across different pixel groups while maintaining a consistent control architecture
2Productivity
If multiple row drivers and control circuits are implemented, then data processing efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control functionality is segmented into multiple independent control circuits, each managing specific pixel groups. This segmentation enables parallel data processing from different pixel groups, improving productivity while making the manufacturing process more manageable through modular control unit production
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements more control circuits than strictly necessary for basic operation, providing redundant control pathways and enhanced processing capability. This partial over-provisioning improves data processing efficiency while the modular nature of the excess components facilitates easier manufacturing through standardized additional units
3Device complexity
If all pixels are controlled by a single row driver, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability in controlling different pixel types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Pixels are segmented into distinct groups based on their functional types (e.g., color pixels, depth pixels, focus pixels), with each group assigned to a dedicated row driver. This segmentation enables each control circuit to optimize control signals for its specific pixel group type, improving adaptability while accepting increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Each row driver is configured with control circuitry optimized for the specific characteristics of its assigned pixel group. This local quality approach allows different parts of the pixel array to have tailored control mechanisms suited to their specific functions, enhancing overall system adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes multiple pixel groups arranged in a row included in a pixel array, the row including multiple pixels respectively allocated to the multiple pixel groups. The image sensor further includes multiple row drivers configured to respectively control operations of the pixels respectively allocated to the pixel groups in the row, and multiple readout circuits configured to respectively read out pixel signals output by the pixels respectively allocated to the pixel groups in the row.