Integrated Image Sensor Merging DVS, ALS, and Proximity Functions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current image devices require separate components for dynamic vision, ambient light, and proximity sensing, leading to increased cost and area usage as the number of integrated functions in mobile devices grows, necessitating a more integrated and miniaturized solution.
Innovation Solution
An image device with a pixel array that includes first and second pixels to generate photocurrents based on visible and infrared light, respectively, and a controller to perform operations of dynamic vision, ambient light, and proximity sensing, utilizing channel drivers, analog-digital converters, and signal processing units to output relevant signals and data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate components are used for dynamic vision, ambient light, and proximity sensing, then each function can be performed independently, but the device area and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three separate sensing functions (dynamic vision sensor, ambient light sensor, and proximity sensor) into a single integrated device. The pixel array includes first pixels for visible light and second pixels for infrared light, with channel drivers and control units that can perform all three sensing operations simultaneously using the same hardware components, thereby reducing device area while maintaining functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed with multi-functional capability where the same pixel array and channel drivers can perform dynamic vision sensing, ambient light sensing, and proximity sensing operations. The controller is configured to selectively activate different sensing modes based on operational requirements, making the device universal and eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function
2Reliability
If separate components are used for dynamic vision, ambient light, and proximity sensing, then each function can be performed independently, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates three separate sensing functions into a single device structure, reducing the total component count and assembly requirements. By sharing common hardware resources such as the pixel array, channel drivers, and control logic across multiple sensing functions, the manufacturing process is simplified and material costs are reduced, leading to lower overall manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a universal architecture where a single set of components serves multiple sensing purposes. The controller can selectively enable different sensing modes (dynamic vision, ambient light, proximity) using the same hardware, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble separate dedicated sensors for each function, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
3Adaptability or versatility
If more functions are integrated into mobile devices, then device capability expands, but constituent elements need to be miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges three distinct sensing functions into a single integrated imaging device, allowing expanded device capability without proportionally increasing the number of separate components. The shared hardware architecture enables multiple functions to coexist in a compact form factor, avoiding the need for additional discrete sensors that would increase overall device size
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed as a universal platform that can perform dynamic vision sensing, ambient light sensing, and proximity sensing using the same core components. This multi-functional design allows the device to expand its capability set without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function, thereby avoiding proportional increases in component size and enabling compact integration
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 the image device to perform dynamic vision, ambient light, and proximity sensing operations simultaneously, reducing cost and area requirements while maintaining effective functionality.
Implementation Method 1
first pixels configured to generate first photocurrents on the basis of intensity of light received from the outside
Data Source
AI summary
An image device including a pixel array and a controller, The pixel array having first pixels and second pixels and corresponding channel drivers. The controller may perform operations of a dynamic vision sensor (DVS), an ambient light sensor (ALS) and a proximity sensor (PS).