Multi-Chip Imaging Control via Common Data Line and Selection Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-chip imaging systems face challenges in efficiently communicating and controlling operating parameters across multiple imaging chips, as current methods often require complex wiring arrangements and cannot simultaneously handle both system-wide and individual chip-specific control data effectively.
Innovation Solution
A chip design that utilizes a single common data-in input line (DIN) to accept both serial and parallel control data, with a selection input to differentiate between the two, allowing for coordinated operation of multiple imaging chips through linked shift registers and independent control of each chip as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a common data-in line is used for all imaging chips, then device complexity is reduced, but control precision for individual chips deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A selection input signal acts as an intermediary mechanism that controls whether control data is applied to all chips simultaneously or to individual chips. The selection input mediates between the common data-in line and the control logic, enabling the system to switch between parallel and serial control modes without requiring separate wiring for each mode
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes its control behavior based on the selection input signal. When the selection input indicates parallel mode, all chips receive control data simultaneously from the common line. When serial mode is selected, the system sequentially addresses individual chips. This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single common data-in line to serve multiple control purposes
2Manufacturing precision
If separate control lines are provided for each chip, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The common data-in line serves multiple functions: it can transmit control data to all chips simultaneously in parallel mode, or it can transmit control data to individual chips sequentially in serial mode. The selection input enables the same physical line to perform different control functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control lines for each chip
3Productivity
If simultaneous control data is sent to all chips, then productivity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two control modes based on the selection input. In parallel mode, control data is sent to all chips simultaneously for high-speed updates. In serial mode, the system sequentially addresses individual chips, allowing different control parameters to be applied to different chips. This dynamic capability provides both high productivity and adaptability
4Adaptability or versatility
If individual chip control is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system can dynamically switch between serial mode for individual chip control and parallel mode for simultaneous control. When individual chip control is needed, the selection input enables sequential addressing. When high-speed updates are needed, the system switches to parallel mode where all chips receive control data simultaneously, thus maintaining high productivity while preserving adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system, such as for recording images as digital data, comprises a plurality of imaging chips. Each chip includes a plurality of imaging elements; a data-in input, the data-in input accepting control data of a first type and control data of a second type, the control data of each type having an effect on at least one operational aspect of the imaging elements; and a selection input, the selection input selectably causing the imaging chip to ignore control data in the data-in input. A data-in line is common to the data-in input of all imaging chips. By controlling the selection input to all chips, the chips can be loaded with control signals in parallel, or in serial, with control data specifically intended for each chip.