Laminated Image Sensor Region Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laminated type image sensors lack the ability to effectively divide images into multiple imaging regions and capture images for each region, resulting in limited usability.
Innovation Solution
The image sensor is configured with a backside illumination type image capturing chip and a signal processing chip, where each unit group of pixels can be individually controlled for different imaging conditions such as frame rate, gain, and exposure time, allowing for separate image capture and processing of multiple regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional laminated type image sensor is used, then the image capturing chip and signal processing chip are connected via micro bumps, but the ability to divide images into multiple imaging regions with different imaging conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging surface is divided into multiple independent imaging regions (first imaging region and second imaging region), each capable of capturing images with different imaging conditions. This segmentation allows each region to be controlled independently for different frame rates, gain settings, and exposure times, thereby enhancing adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the laminated sensor structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different imaging regions are assigned different local imaging characteristics and conditions. The first imaging region can operate with different frame rates, gain values, and exposure times compared to the second imaging region, allowing each region to be optimized for specific imaging needs while maintaining the overall laminated sensor architecture.
2Productivity
If different frame rates are set for different imaging regions, then the optimum time for image recording can be detected, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging sensor is segmented into multiple regions that can operate at different frame rates simultaneously. This allows the system to capture images at the optimum time for each specific region (e.g., capturing eye movements at high frame rate while capturing background at lower frame rate) without requiring a single complex control system for the entire sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame rate for each imaging region can be dynamically adjusted independently based on imaging requirements. This dynamic control allows the system to optimize image recording efficiency for different regions without fixing the entire sensor to a single frame rate, thereby improving productivity while managing complexity through regional independence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imaging regions with different imaging conditions are implemented, then the usability is enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging chip is manufactured with distinct segmented regions that can be defined through standard semiconductor fabrication processes. By dividing the imaging surface into separate regions during manufacturing, each region can be assigned different imaging conditions and characteristics using conventional manufacturing techniques, enhancing usability without requiring excessively complex manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The laminated type image sensor structure serves multiple functions: it maintains the existing chip lamination architecture for signal processing while simultaneously providing multiple imaging regions with different characteristics. This multi-functionality allows the same basic structure to support both the original imaging capabilities and the new regional division capabilities, improving usability without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
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 configuration enables the capture of images with varied imaging conditions for different regions, enhancing the usability and flexibility of the electronic apparatus by allowing for simultaneous or sequential capture of still and motion images with specific settings.
Implementation Method 1
an image capturing chip of the backside illumination type and a signal processing chip are laminated
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3
AI summary
An electronic apparatus includes: an input unit that inputs image data generated by an image capturing unit that has a plurality of pixel groups, each pixel group including at least one pixel, and that is capable of performing image-capturing under different imaging conditions for each of the pixel groups and data for the imaging conditions for each of the pixel groups; and a recording control unit that generates image data for each of pixel groups having the same imaging conditions based on the image data inputted from the input unit and records the image data generated for each of the pixel groups having the same imaging conditions in a recording unit.