Solid-State Imaging Device Asynchronous Motion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motion detection in solid-state imaging devices can only detect motion at intervals, limiting the ability to sequentially detect object motion and requiring separate systems for normal photography and motion detection.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device with n first photoelectric conversion elements and m second photoelectric conversion elements, along with corresponding reading circuits and a reading control circuit, allows for asynchronous motion detection by generating event signals and adding address information to pixel signals, enabling the determination of reading regions for normal pixel signals based on motion detection data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional frame-based motion detection is used, then the system structure is simple, but motion detection can only occur at frame intervals and sequential motion detection is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into two distinct types: first photoelectric conversion elements for normal photographing and second photoelectric conversion elements for motion detection. This segmentation allows each type to be optimized for its specific function, enabling high-rate sequential motion detection while maintaining a manageable overall system structure
Solution Approach 2:
Both first and second photoelectric conversion elements can operate in dual modes: they can perform normal photographing (APS reading) and motion detection (AER reading). This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high-rate motion detection while maintaining flexibility in operation modes
2Use of energy by stationary object
If all pixels read out simultaneously for normal photographing, then complete image data is captured, but power consumption increases and reading time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The reading control circuit dynamically determines reading regions based on motion detection results from second photoelectric conversion elements. When motion is detected, only the affected reading regions are read out at high speed, while other regions can be read out selectively or skipped, thereby reducing overall power consumption and reading time while preserving critical motion-related image information
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional frame-based sequential reading with event-driven asynchronous reading. Motion detection events trigger targeted reading of specific regions, substituting the mechanical frame-by-frame reading approach with a more efficient event-based system that reduces power consumption while maintaining image data completeness for motion areas
3Productivity
If motion detection is performed asynchronously, then motion detection rate exceeds frame rate, but determining which pixels to read becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reading control circuit uses feedback from motion detection results (event signals with address information from second photoelectric conversion elements) to dynamically determine reading regions. This feedback mechanism enables the system to achieve high-rate asynchronous motion detection while managing reading control complexity through automated region selection based on detected motion events
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 simultaneous high-frame-rate normal photography and sequential motion detection, reducing power consumption and improving image quality by selectively reading pixel signals from designated regions.
Implementation Method 1
n first photoelectric conversion elements configured to photoelectrically convert incident light and generate first charge signals
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state imaging device includes n first photoelectric conversion elements configured to photoelectrically convert incident light, n first reading circuits configured to output corresponding first pixel signals, m second photoelectric conversion elements configured to photoelectrically convert incident light, m second reading circuits configured to sequentially output corresponding second pixel signals, and a reading control circuit, wherein each of the second reading circuits includes a detection circuit configured to output an event signal when a change in a second charge signal is detected and a pixel signal generation circuit configured to add address information to an event signal, and the reading control circuit causes the first pixel signal to be output by determining a reading region corresponding to address information, and n and m are natural numbers greater than or equal to 2.