Imaging Device Cell Array for Edge Image Processing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging devices lack the capability for image processing, high-speed operation, low power consumption, compact size, high light detection sensitivity, and reliable performance with additional functions such as image recognition.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a cell array and logic circuit that acquires and processes imaging data, retains weight data, and performs arithmetic operations using both, incorporating transistors with metal oxides in the channel formation region and a microlens function for enhanced light detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If image processing functions are added to imaging devices, then image recognition capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the photoelectric conversion function and the logic circuit function into a single integrated cell structure. The cell includes a photoelectric conversion element connected to transistors that form both the photoelectric conversion circuit and the logic circuit, eliminating the need for separate image processing units and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining image processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The cell structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a photoelectric conversion element for capturing images and a logic circuit for processing images. The same transistors and circuit nodes are utilized for both imaging and arithmetic operations, enabling the device to handle multiple tasks without requiring separate dedicated components
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional functions are added to imaging devices, then functionality is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the photoelectric conversion circuit and logic circuit into a single cell, the patent reduces the total number of components and interconnections. This integration minimizes power consumption by reducing leakage currents from additional transistors and reducing the energy required for signal transmission between separate modules
Solution Approach 2:
The cell performs arithmetic operations on imaging data immediately after capture without requiring external processing. The logic circuit within the cell autonomously processes the data using weight data stored in the same cell, reducing the need for power-hungry external processing units and enabling low-power edge computing
3Speed
If processing speed is increased, then operation speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent stores weight data in advance within the cell's capacitor before arithmetic operations are performed. This preliminary preparation of data eliminates the need for real-time data fetching and processing from external memory, enabling faster operations without the power overhead of continuous data access and reducing latency in image processing
4Volume of moving object
If device size is reduced, then compactness is improved, but integration density increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional blocks (photoelectric conversion element, holding capacitors, logic circuits) into a single compact cell structure. This integration dramatically reduces the area required per functional unit, enabling high integration density while maintaining all necessary functions within a small footprint suitable for mobile and portable devices
Solution Approach 2:
The cell structure employs a nested arrangement where the logic circuit is integrated within the same planar area as the photoelectric conversion element. Transistors are arranged in overlapping and shared configurations, with some transistors serving dual purposes in both photoelectric conversion and logic operations, maximizing space utilization and reducing overall device area
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
Enables image processing, high-speed operation, low power consumption, compact size, and high light detection sensitivity while providing a reliable imaging device with additional functions like image recognition.
Implementation Method 1
The cell includes a photoelectric conversion element. The cell has a function of acquiring imaging data using the photoelectric conversion element.
Implementation Method 2
incorporating transistors with metal oxides in the channel formation region and a microlens function for enhanced light detection
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device capable of image processing is provided. The imaging device has an image recognition function. In the imaging device, cells have a function of acquiring imaging data and a function of retaining weight data. Among the cells arranged in a matrix, some of the cells acquire imaging data and the rest of the cells retain weight data. Then, arithmetic operation is performed using the imaging data and the weight data. For example, all the imaging data can be subjected to arithmetic operation where products of the imaging data and the weight data are calculated and the sum of the calculated products is calculated. That is, product-sum operation can be performed. When an arithmetic operation result is captured by a neural network such as a convolutional neural network (CNN) or the like, the additional function can be used because image processing can be performed on the imaging data.