18310750. IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATION METHOD THEREOF simplified abstract (SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.)
Contents
IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATION METHOD THEREOF
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATION METHOD THEREOF - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18310750 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATION METHOD THEREOF
Simplified Explanation
The disclosed patent application describes an image sensor that consists of two rows of pixels. The first row generates charges in response to a first exposure, while the second row generates charges in response to a second exposure. One of the pixels in the first row includes a photo diode, a first floating diffusion, a first transfer transistor, and a gate electrode of the first transfer transistor that partially overlaps the first floating diffusion area when viewed horizontally. The pixel also has a second floating diffusion area spaced apart from the first floating diffusion area, with one end of the second floating diffusion area connected to a gate of a drive transistor. The pixel further includes a second transfer transistor that electrically connects the first floating diffusion area to the second floating diffusion area.
- The image sensor has two rows of pixels that generate charges in response to different exposures.
- One pixel in the first row has a unique structure with a photo diode, floating diffusions, and transfer transistors.
- The gate electrode of the first transfer transistor partially overlaps the first floating diffusion area.
- The second floating diffusion area is connected to the gate of a drive transistor.
- The second transfer transistor connects the first and second floating diffusion areas.
Potential applications of this technology:
- Digital cameras and smartphones: The image sensor can be used to capture high-quality images with improved dynamic range by combining the charges generated from different exposures.
- Surveillance systems: The image sensor can enhance the ability to capture clear images in both bright and dark environments, improving the effectiveness of surveillance cameras.
Problems solved by this technology:
- Limited dynamic range: By using two rows of pixels with different exposures, the image sensor can capture a wider range of light intensities, resulting in better image quality.
- Low-light sensitivity: The second row of pixels can capture details in low-light conditions, improving the overall performance of the image sensor.
Benefits of this technology:
- Improved image quality: The image sensor can capture a wider range of light intensities, resulting in images with better contrast and detail.
- Enhanced low-light performance: The second row of pixels improves the sensor's sensitivity in low-light conditions, allowing for clearer images in challenging lighting situations.
- Versatile applications: The technology can be applied to various imaging devices, including digital cameras, smartphones, and surveillance systems.
Original Abstract Submitted
Disclosed is an image sensor including a plurality of first pixels arranged in a first row and configured to generate first charges in response to a first exposure and a plurality of second pixels arranged in a second row different from the first row and configured to generate second charges in response to a second exposure. At least one pixel of the plurality of first pixels includes a photo diode, a first floating diffusion, a first transfer transistor, a gate electrode of the first transfer transistor partially overlapping the first floating diffusion area when viewed in a horizontal direction, a second floating diffusion area spaced apart from the first floating diffusion area, one end of the second floating diffusion area being connected to a gate of a drive transistor, and a second transfer transistor that electrically connects the first floating diffusion area to the second floating diffusion area.
