Image Sensor Readout Circuit Parallel Pixel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensing devices with CMOS circuits face long readout operation times when signals are read from only some pixels arranged in a pixel array across multiple rows, as they require sequential readout operations for each row.
Innovation Solution
The image sensing device employs a pixel array with first-type and second-type pixels, where first-type pixels are read out simultaneously by one readout circuit and second-type pixels are read out separately, allowing for simultaneous readout of signals from multiple first-type pixels in different columns, reducing overall readout time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sequential row-by-row readout is performed for thinned-out reading, then device complexity is reduced, but readout time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented into multiple independent readout regions, each handled by dedicated readout circuits. This allows parallel processing of different pixel groups simultaneously, reducing overall readout time while keeping each individual readout circuit relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional sequential row readout to two-dimensional parallel readout by introducing multiple readout circuits that operate simultaneously on different rows or pixel groups, effectively adding a temporal parallelism dimension to the readout process
2Productivity
If multiple readout circuits are used for simultaneous readout, then readout speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each readout circuit is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple pixel rows or groups, allowing the same circuit architecture to be replicated and used in parallel. This reduces overall system complexity by avoiding the need for completely different circuit designs for each readout channel
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple pixel signals from different rows into shared readout circuits through signal multiplexing and combining techniques, allowing parallel readout capability while reducing the total number of independent circuit components needed
3Manufacturing precision
If all pixels are read out sequentially, then manufacturing precision requirements are simplified, but frame rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple independently readable segments or regions, allowing simultaneous readout of multiple segments through dedicated readout circuits. This segmentation enables higher frame rates by parallelizing the readout process without complicating the manufacturing of individual pixel elements
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensing device is provided. The device comprises pixels including a first pixel which belongs to a first row and a first column, a second pixel which belongs to a second row and the first column and a third pixel which belongs to the second row and a second column, and readout units including a first readout circuit connected to the first and second pixels and a second readout circuit connected to the third pixel. The device performs a first operation and a second operation after the first operation. In the first operation, signal readout from the first and third pixels are performed. In the second operation, signal readout from the second pixel is performed. A controller determines, based on the signal generated by the first operation, a control parameter using to control the second operation.