Shift Register Macro Reading Block Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pixel array systems lack flexibility in selecting and configuring macro reading blocks, particularly for variable-sized regions of interest, leading to inefficient data transfer and increased power consumption due to the need to read and store data from all pixels, rather than just those of interest.
Innovation Solution
The use of shift registers to dynamically select and move macro reading blocks within pixel arrays, allowing for the activation of specific pixels based on a region of interest (ROI), with the ability to change the block's size and location in response to changing conditions, such as moving objects or varying signal sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all pixels in the pixel array are activated and read out, then complete data coverage is achieved, but power consumption and data transfer volume increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple macro reading blocks, each capable of independent activation. Only the macro block containing the region of interest is activated, segmenting the active sensing area from the inactive areas, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining complete coverage of the region of interest
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pixel array have different activation states - the macro block containing the region of interest is activated with high quality sensing, while other regions remain inactive. This local differentiation optimizes power consumption by activating only where needed
2Ease of manufacture
If the macro reading block size is fixed, then hardware design is simplified, but flexibility in selecting regions of interest is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The macro reading block configuration is made dynamic through shift register control, allowing the block size and position to be adjusted in real-time based on the region of interest requirements. This dynamic reconfigurability provides flexibility in ROI selection while maintaining a relatively simple hardware architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The same macro reading block hardware structure is used universally across different configurations and positions within the pixel array. By controlling which macro block is activated and its position through shift registers, the system achieves multiple functional configurations without requiring multiple dedicated hardware structures
3Adaptability or versatility
If shift registers are used to dynamically configure macro reading blocks, then ROI selection flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Shift registers are introduced as intermediary control elements between the control logic and the macro reading block activation. These shift registers provide a simple, efficient interface for selecting and positioning macro blocks, achieving flexible ROI selection without requiring complex direct control circuits
4Reliability
If data from all pixels is transferred to memory, then complete image data is captured, but data transfer volume and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Only the data from the macro reading block containing the region of interest is extracted and transferred to memory, leaving the data from other pixels unused. This extraction approach maintains complete capture of the important information while significantly reducing the total data volume that needs to be stored
Data Source
AI summary
A system may include a first pixel array arranged in a first direction and a second direction, and a first shift register coupled to the first pixel array. An output signal of the first shift register may be configured to activate one or more pixels of the first pixel array. The activated pixels may form a first macro reading block, wherein the first shift register may be configured to receive a clock signal to move the first macro reading block in the first direction or the second direction.