Pixel Binning Device for CMOS Image Sensor Video Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
In video mode, CMOS image sensors do not utilize all pixels, resulting in wasted pixels and lower resolution compared to photography mode.
Innovation Solution
A pixel binning device that includes transistors and a binning circuit to combine signals from multiple pixels, allowing for efficient signal transfer and merging, thereby increasing video mode resolution by utilizing all pixels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If pixels are not operated at full frame in video mode, then image acquisition speed is improved, but resolution is reduced and pixels are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges signals from multiple pixels (e.g., 2x2 or 4x4 groups) into single output channels through the binning device. This combining approach allows all pixels to be utilized in video mode while maintaining effective resolution, resolving the contradiction between acquisition speed and resolution by enabling full-frame operation with signal consolidation.
2Manufacturing precision
If all pixels are utilized in video mode, then resolution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented into groups (e.g., 2x2 or 4x4 super-pixels) that are processed independently through the binning device. This segmentation allows systematic signal combination while maintaining manageable device complexity, as the binning structure processes groups rather than individual pixels, reducing the complexity burden of utilizing all pixels.
Solution Approach 2:
The binning device acts as an intermediary component between the pixel array and readout circuitry. It provides a intermediate signal processing stage that combines multiple pixel signals before final readout, thereby enabling full pixel utilization without directly increasing the complexity of the pixel array or readout circuitry themselves.
3Loss of energy
If pixels are not fully utilized, then power consumption is reduced, but resolution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The binning device enables periodic or selective activation of pixel groups, where different super-pixel groups can be activated in different time periods or frames. This periodic action allows the system to achieve high resolution when needed while consuming less power during normal video operation, resolving the contradiction between power consumption and resolution.
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
Enhances video mode resolution by effectively using all pixels, reducing power consumption and maintaining high performance without altering the original pixel array fabrication process.
Implementation Method 1
each pixel includes a sensing element that is capable of converting a portion of an optical image into an electronic signal
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes a first pixel and a second pixel. The first pixel receives a first signal sensed by a first photodiode. The second pixel receives a second signal sensed by a second photodiode. A pixel binning device includes a first transistor, a second transistor and a binning circuit, wherein the first transistor switchably couples to the first pixel to transfer the first signal, the second transistor switchably couples to the second pixel to transfer the second signal, and the binning circuit couples to the first transistor and the second transistor to bin the first signal and the second signal.