Pixel Binning for Hexa-Deca RGBW Image Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern image sensors face challenges in achieving high frame rates, low read noise, and high dynamic range while minimizing power consumption, as increasing the number of ADCs or reducing pixel readout time leads to increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of novel pixel binning schemes in image sensors, where pixels sharing a common readout structure are binned and read out using different exposure times, allowing for concurrent digital data conversion and reducing readout noise without increasing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of ADCs is increased or pixel readout time is reduced to achieve high frame rate and low read noise, then image quality improves, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pixels are merged into binning groups that share common readout circuitry and ADCs. By combining the signals from multiple pixels before readout, the system achieves lower read noise through signal averaging while using fewer ADCs and reducing overall power consumption compared to dedicated readout paths for each pixel.
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel array is segmented into multiple binning groups, each with its own readout structure. This segmentation allows parallel readout of multiple pixels through shared circuitry, effectively increasing the readout throughput without requiring separate dedicated readout paths for each pixel, thus reducing power consumption.
2Productivity
If pixel binning is applied to reduce readout noise and increase frame rate, then readout performance improves, but optical resolution decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different binning configurations based on imaging conditions. In low-light scenarios, stronger binning is applied to maximize signal strength and minimize read noise. In well-lit conditions, weaker binning or no binning is used to preserve spatial resolution, allowing the system to adaptively balance between frame rate and resolution requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pixel array can be assigned different binning factors based on local requirements. Areas requiring high frame rate can use stronger binning while areas requiring high resolution use weaker binning, allowing simultaneous optimization of both parameters across the entire image sensor.
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 faster readout and lower readout noise while maintaining power efficiency, achieving real-time high dynamic range and reducing optical resolution trade-offs.
Implementation Method 1
The basic function of a modern CMOS image sensor (CIS) is to capture photons that are converted into electrons in a photodiode array
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes a pixel array comprising a plurality of pixels, a color filter array comprising a plurality of color filter clusters overlying the pixel array, and readout circuitry configured to concurrently provide the pixels sharing the common filter cluster and having a first exposure time to a readout line for digital data conversion. Each of the color filter clusters includes a group of same color filters, and pixels sharing a common color filter cluster have different exposure times.