Imaging Array with Variable Sensor Spacing and Control Circuitry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensor arrays face challenges in efficiently controlling and laying out circuitry, particularly in ensuring image overlap and optimizing sensor spacing for improved imaging performance in electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The use of an array of lenses and corresponding image sensors with variable center-to-center spacing and advanced control circuitry for signal processing, row and column signal line shifting, sensor pixel array bypassing, and signal synchronization to enhance image overlap and quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple image sensors are used in an array, then image quality and depth of focus are improved, but device complexity and circuitry layout difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent image sensor units, each with its own lens and support circuitry. This segmentation allows each sensor to be controlled independently and simplifies the overall circuitry layout by distributing control functions across multiple modular units rather than requiring complex centralized control for a single large sensor array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane sensor arrangement to a three-dimensional array configuration where sensors are positioned at different depths and lateral positions. This dimensional expansion enables improved depth of focus and image quality through multi-planar capture while managing circuitry complexity through spatial distribution of control functions.
2Ease of manufacture
If uniform spacing is used for image sensors in the array, then manufacturing is simplified, but image overlap and quality are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements non-uniform spacing where the distance between adjacent image sensors varies depending on their position in the array. Sensors closer to the center have different spacing than those at the periphery, allowing each region to be optimized for its specific imaging requirements. This local variation in spacing ensures proper image overlap and quality while remaining compatible with manufacturing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacing parameter between sensors is changed from a constant uniform value to a variable value that depends on position. This parameter change allows the system to optimize image overlap and quality by adjusting inter-sensor distances locally, while the overall pattern remains manufacturable through standard fabrication processes.
3Reliability
If all image sensors are activated continuously, then complete image coverage is ensured, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically activates or deactivates specific image sensors based on the current imaging requirements and scene characteristics. Rather than continuous operation, sensors are selectively enabled only when needed, allowing the system to maintain complete image coverage when necessary while reducing power consumption during normal operation through adaptive sensor activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuitry automatically determines which sensors need to be active based on imaging conditions, eliminating the need for continuous operation of all sensors. The system self-regulates sensor activation to maintain adequate image coverage while optimizing power consumption, with sensors activating themselves only when their specific imaging function is required.
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 allows for improved image quality by ensuring complete or partial image overlap, reducing color cross-talk, and conserving power by activating only necessary sensors, thereby enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio and color fidelity.
Implementation Method 1
The pixel circuitry may include a photodiode that converts incoming light into charge
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit may have rows and columns of imaging pixel arrays. Row driver circuitry and column readout circuitry may be shared between the imaging pixel arrays. Control circuit blocks may bypass inactive pixel arrays and may shift signals between different signal paths on the integrated circuit. The control circuit blocks may include synchronizing circuitry for deskewing control signals and buffer circuitry for regenerating weak signals as they are distributed across the integrated circuit. An array of lenses may be associated with the integrated circuit. The spacing between imaging pixel arrays may differ at different parts of the integrated circuit. Images from multiple image sensor pixel arrays may be combined to form a single digital image. Image sensors may be provided with unique lenses, different color responses, different image pixels, different image pixel patterns, and other differences. Reference pixels may be interposed in the gaps between image sensor arrays.