Multimode Pixel Asynchronous Image Laser Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional SWIR cameras can only process either low-frequency image signals or high-frequency laser signals at a given time, lacking the flexibility to independently process both simultaneously due to interdependence of pixel components.
Innovation Solution
A multimode pixel design with separate image and pulse readout paths, allowing independent control and asynchronous operation of image and pulse data transmission, enabling simultaneous processing of low-frequency image signals and high-frequency laser signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional SWIR cameras use shared pixel components for both image and laser signal processing, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to independently process image and laser signals simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel is divided into separate readout paths: an image readout path for low-frequency image signals and a pulse readout path for high-frequency laser signals. This segmentation allows independent processing of both signal types simultaneously without interference, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by organizing components into functional segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel design incorporates multiple readout paths that can handle different signal types (image and laser) within a single pixel structure. This multi-functionality enables the pixel to process both low-frequency image signals and high-frequency laser signals independently, achieving versatility while maintaining a unified pixel architecture.
2Productivity
If SWIR cameras use a single readout path for both image and pulse signals, then device complexity is reduced, but processing speed and frame rate flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The readout system is segmented into independent image and pulse readout paths, each optimized for its specific signal type. The image readout path handles low-frequency signals at lower frame rates, while the pulse readout path handles high-frequency laser signals at higher frame rates, enabling flexible and independent frame rate control for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The readout paths are designed with dynamic control capabilities, allowing the system to adjust frame rates and processing parameters independently for image and pulse signals. This dynamic flexibility enables optimal performance for both low-frequency imaging and high-frequency laser detection without being constrained by a single readout schedule.
3Ease of operation
If multimode pixels share components for acquiring and processing image and laser signals, then device complexity is reduced, but processing flexibility and accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel circuit is segmented into distinct image sensing and processing components separate from pulse detection and processing components. This segmentation provides processing flexibility by allowing independent configuration and optimization of each path while maintaining a manageable circuit structure through modular organization.
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 and independent processing of image and laser signals, improving flexibility and accuracy in decoding laser pulse repetition frequencies while maintaining suitable frame rates for both imaging and pulse detection.
Implementation Method 1
The IR photodetectors generate an electrical charge, voltage, or resistance in response to detecting photons in the IR wavelengths
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode pixel of a pixel array is provided. The multimode pixel includes a photodetector, an image sensing circuit, a pulse detection circuit, and an image readout path coupled between the image sensing circuit and at least one readout conductor of the pixel array to transmit image signals from the image sensing circuit to the at least one readout conductor. The multimode pixel further includes a pulse readout path different from the image readout path, wherein the pulse readout path is coupled between the pulse detection circuit and the at least one readout conductor to transmit pulse data from the pulse detection circuit to the at least one readout conductor, and wherein the image readout path is controlled independently from the pulse readout path.