Photoelectric Conversion Device Switching Pixel Binning Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion detection image sensors face challenges in reducing power consumption during the motion detection period, as binning operations do not sufficiently minimize power usage.
Innovation Solution
A photoelectric conversion device with a switch unit that allows for two modes: one for adding signals from multiple pixels for motion detection, reducing readout time and power consumption, and another for processing individual pixel signals, increasing readout time but allowing for higher resolution imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If binning operation is performed by using switches to connect output lines and FD nodes, then power consumption is reduced during motion detection, but the power consumption reduction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple pixel blocks, where each block contains multiple pixels that can be independently binned. This segmentation allows selective binning of specific regions while maintaining individual pixel processing in other areas, thereby achieving more effective power consumption reduction during motion detection while preserving image quality where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device alternates between a motion detection period with binning operation and an imaging period with individual pixel readout. During the motion detection period, multiple pixels are binned to reduce power consumption, while during the imaging period, individual pixels are processed to maintain high resolution. This periodic switching optimizes power consumption based on operational requirements.
2Loss of time
If binning is performed to reduce power consumption, then readout time is reduced, but resolution is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device dynamically switches between binning mode and individual pixel readout mode based on the operational period. During motion detection, binning is applied to reduce readout time and power consumption. During imaging periods, individual pixel readout is performed to maintain high resolution. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between readout speed and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel array is segmented into multiple pixel blocks that can operate independently. Some blocks perform binning for fast readout while other blocks maintain individual pixel processing for high resolution. This spatial segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of both readout time and resolution in different regions of the image sensor.
3Measurement precision
If individual pixel signals are processed, then image resolution is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device alternates between periods of individual pixel processing for high resolution imaging and periods of binning operation for power-efficient motion detection. This periodic operation allows the system to maintain high resolution capabilities while reducing average power consumption by utilizing binning during motion detection periods when full resolution is not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device dynamically adjusts its processing mode based on operational requirements. When high resolution is needed, individual pixel signals are processed. When motion detection is the primary function, binning is applied to reduce power consumption. This dynamic switching optimizes the balance between resolution and power consumption based on real-time needs.
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
The solution effectively reduces power consumption during motion detection while enabling high-resolution imaging by optimizing readout operations and signal processing, tolerating some noise for motion detection applications.
Implementation Method 1
Each pixel includes a photodiode PD that generates, in accordance with incident light, charge
Data Source
AI summary
A photoelectric conversion device of an embodiment includes a plurality of pixels, a signal processing circuit, and a switch unit. The signal processing circuit performs analog-to-digital conversion on signals output from the plurality of pixels. The switch unit performs switching between a first mode for motion detection to input a first signal generated by adding signals of at least two pixels to the signal processing circuit and a second mode to input respective signals of the at least two pixels to the signal processing circuit individually as second signals. A first period from start to end of a readout operation performed by the signal processing circuit in order to process the first signal is shorter than a second period from start to end of a readout operation performed by the signal processing circuit in order to process one of the second signals.