Single-Pixel Image Sensor for Simultaneous Color and Depth Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for acquiring both color and depth images using image sensors require multiple sensors, leading to size and cost issues, as well as reduced spatial resolution and increased complexity in matching color and depth image data.
Innovation Solution
A single pixel image sensor structure where each pixel can output both color and depth values by using band-pass filters to separate visible and non-visible light components, allowing for simultaneous color and depth image capture without the need for additional sensors or large pixel sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to acquire color and depth images separately, then the quality of color and depth images can be maintained, but the size and cost of the imaging system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines color imaging and depth imaging functions into a single sensor by integrating visible light photodetectors and infrared light photodetectors in the same pixel structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate sensors for color and depth, thereby reducing overall sensor size while maintaining image quality through shared optical path and processing circuitry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal pixel structure that can detect both visible light (for color images) and infrared light (for depth images) using the same photodetector array. This multi-functional design allows a single sensor to perform multiple imaging tasks, reducing the number of components needed while preserving measurement precision for both image types
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to acquire color and depth images separately, then the quality of color and depth images can be maintained, but the cost of the imaging system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges color and depth imaging into a single sensor module, reducing the total component count and assembly complexity. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for separate sensor modules, alignment mechanisms, and associated electronics, while maintaining image quality through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The universal pixel structure that detects both visible and infrared light reduces bill of materials costs by requiring only one sensor array instead of two. The shared readout circuitry and processing architecture further reduce manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving the measurement precision needed for both color and depth imaging
3Area of stationary object
If a single sensor is used to capture both color and depth images, then the size and cost are reduced, but the spatial resolution of the images decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments each pixel into multiple photodetector elements within the same pixel area - specifically, visible light photodetectors and infrared light photodetectors are arranged in a segmented fashion within each pixel. This segmentation allows simultaneous capture of color and depth information at the same spatial location, maintaining spatial resolution while reducing overall sensor size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spectral dimension to the imaging process by detecting both visible and infrared wavelengths simultaneously within the same spatial pixel array. This dimensional extension in the wavelength domain allows the sensor to capture multiple types of information (color and depth) without reducing spatial resolution, as each pixel maintains its full spatial capability while detecting multiple wavelength bands
4Area of stationary object
If a single sensor is used to capture both color and depth images, then the size is reduced, but additional circuits and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the readout circuitry for visible and infrared photodetectors into a shared circuit architecture. By combining the signal processing paths and using common control logic, the patent reduces the overall circuit complexity that would otherwise be required for separate processing channels, thereby offsetting the added complexity from multi-wavelength detection
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 the capture of high-resolution color and depth images using a single pixel, reducing the size of the image sensor, increasing the Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) of the depth image, and eliminating the need for additional sensors or circuits, thereby improving sensitivity and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
using band-pass filters to separate visible and non-visible light components
Implementation Method 2
a pixel does not directly extract a particular color from received light, but converts a photon of a wide spectrum band into an electron or charge
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an imaging sensor. The image sensor may comprise a plurality of pixels. At least one of the plurality of pixels may comprise a plurality of photo-diodes, wherein the plurality of photo-diodes share a portion of a detecting. The detecting circuit may comprise at least one of a reset transistor, a source follower, a selective transistor and a Floating Diffusion (FD) node.