Solid-State Imaging Device Address Event Pixel Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional iTOF sensors face challenges in increasing modulation frequency for improved distance measurement accuracy while experiencing increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device comprising a first pixel for detecting address events and a second pixel for generating distance information, where the second pixel operates only when the first pixel detects an address event, allowing for higher modulation frequency without excessive power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the modulation frequency is increased to improve distance measurement accuracy and reduce interference, then the distance measurement accuracy is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by enabling the second pixel to perform accumulation operations only during specific time periods when address events are detected by the first pixel, rather than continuously. This allows the system to achieve high modulation frequency benefits for distance measurement accuracy while reducing overall power consumption by limiting operation to necessary time windows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the operation state of the second pixel changeable based on detection results from the first pixel. The second pixel dynamically switches between active accumulation mode and idle state, allowing the system to adapt to varying measurement needs and optimize the balance between measurement accuracy and power consumption.
2Reliability
If the modulation frequency is increased to reduce modulation with interference, then the interference resistance is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by activating the second pixel only during specific time windows when address events occur, rather than maintaining continuous high-frequency modulation. This periodic activation maintains interference resistance during critical measurement periods while reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the operational characteristics of different pixels. The first pixel continuously monitors for address events, while the second pixel performs high-frequency accumulation operations only locally in time when needed, creating different operational qualities in different spatial-temporal regions of the system.
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 configuration enhances distance measurement accuracy while effectively managing power consumption by limiting the operation of distance-measuring pixels to only when necessary.
Implementation Method 1
a first pixel configured to detect an address event based on incident light
Implementation Method 2
a second pixel configured to generate information on a distance to an object based on the incident light
Data Source
AI summary
Distance measurement accuracy is improved while an increase in power consumption is suppressed. A solid-state imaging device includes a first pixel (210) that detects an address event based on incident light, and a second pixel (310) that generates information on a distance to an object based on the incident light. The second pixel generates the information on the distance to the object when the first pixel detects the address event.