Multi-Array Image Sensor Segmentation for Crosstalk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional digital camera sensors have limitations in color reconstruction due to crosstalk among pixels and are not versatile enough for various imaging tasks, such as motion detection and dynamic range capture, as they rely on a single monolithic array of pixels with Bayer filters.
Innovation Solution
The use of multi-array image sensors with flexibly sized clusters of pixels and their own imaging lens systems and filters, forming mini-cameras on a single die, which can be optimized for specific imaging tasks like flexible exposure metering, motion sensing, and high dynamic range capture, reducing crosstalk and improving physical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single monolithic array of pixels with Bayer filters is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the color reconstruction accuracy deteriorates due to crosstalk among pixels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensor into multiple independent pixel arrays, each dedicated to capturing a specific color channel (red, green, blue). This segmentation eliminates crosstalk between different color channels since each array only detects its assigned wavelength, thereby improving color reconstruction accuracy while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel array is optimized for its specific color detection function with dedicated microlenses and filters tailored to its wavelength range. This local optimization ensures that each region of the sensor has the precise properties needed for its function, improving overall color accuracy without requiring a completely complex unified structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single monolithic pixel array is used, then the device structure is simplified, but the adaptability for various imaging tasks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system achieves multi-functionality by combining multiple specialized pixel arrays that can be selectively activated or combined for different imaging tasks. The same physical sensor structure supports various modes including color imaging, monochrome imaging, depth mapping, and motion detection, making the system universally adaptable without requiring multiple separate sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor enables dynamic configuration where different pixel arrays can be independently controlled and combined in various ways depending on the imaging task. This dynamic flexibility allows the system to adapt its functionality in real-time, switching between different operational modes and combining data from different arrays as needed for specific applications.
3Measurement precision
If more pixels are added to a single array to improve resolution, then the measurement precision improves, but the heat generation and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the high-resolution sensor into multiple color-specific arrays, the patent enables selective activation of only the necessary pixel arrays for each imaging task. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high resolution when needed while consuming less power during operations that require fewer pixels, such as depth mapping or motion detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can use partial arrays for specific tasks rather than activating the entire sensor array. For example, depth mapping may only require one color array, or motion detection may use a subset of pixels, thereby achieving the necessary measurement precision with reduced power consumption compared to using all pixels continuously.
4Illumination intensity
If a larger single pixel array is used to capture more light, then the illumination intensity detection improves, but the heat buildup increases causing image distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light capture function across multiple smaller pixel arrays, each optimized for specific wavelength ranges. This segmentation distributes the heat generation across separate physical regions rather than concentrating it in a single large array, improving thermal management while maintaining the ability to capture sufficient light for each color channel.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel array is optimized for its specific color range with dedicated microlenses and filters, allowing efficient light capture in the relevant spectrum. This local optimization ensures that each array captures only the wavelengths it is designed for, improving light capture efficiency without requiring excessive total pixel count that would generate more heat.
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 approach enables more versatile and accurate imaging with reduced size and power consumption, allowing for improved color rendition, motion detection, and dynamic range capture, while preventing heat buildup and image distortion.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor (e.g., a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)) that converts light into electrical charges
Data Source
AI summary
Present embodiments relate to techniques for capturing images. One embodiment may include an image sensor, comprising a substrate, a first pixel cell array disposed on the substrate, a first photographic lens arranged to focus light onto the first pixel cell array, a second pixel cell array disposed on the substrate, a second photographic lens arranged to focus light onto the second pixel cell array, and an image coordination circuit configured to coordinate the first array and lens with the second array and lens to provide an image. The first pixel cell array and the first photographic lens may be configured to cooperate to capture a first image of a scene, and the second pixel cell array and the second photographic lens may be configured to cooperate to capture a second image of the scene.