18465993. IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF simplified abstract (SK hynix Inc.)
Contents
IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Sun Young Lee of Gyeonggi-do (KR)
Jeong Eun Song of Gyeonggi-do (KR)
IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18465993 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF
Simplified Explanation: The image sensor described in the patent application includes pixels arranged in rows, with each row outputting pixel signals through specific column lines during a unit row time. An alignment circuit aligns the pixel signals for each row and generates alignment signals. Signal conversion circuits then generate depth information signals based on the voltage differences between the alignment signals.
- The image sensor includes pixels arranged in rows and utilizes column lines for signal output.
- An alignment circuit aligns pixel signals for each row and generates alignment signals.
- Signal conversion circuits generate depth information signals based on voltage differences between alignment signals.
- Depth information signals are generated through A/D conversion operations.
- The technology allows for accurate depth information extraction from pixel signals.
Potential Applications: 1. 3D imaging systems 2. Depth sensing cameras 3. Augmented reality devices 4. Robotics for object detection and navigation 5. Medical imaging for depth perception in diagnostics
Problems Solved: 1. Accurate depth information extraction from pixel signals 2. Improved alignment of pixel signals for depth sensing applications 3. Efficient generation of depth information through A/D conversion operations
Benefits: 1. Enhanced depth perception in imaging systems 2. Improved accuracy in object detection and tracking 3. Increased efficiency in depth sensing applications 4. Enhanced performance in augmented reality and robotics systems
Commercial Applications: Depth sensing cameras for consumer electronics, medical imaging devices for diagnostics, robotics systems for navigation and object detection, 3D imaging solutions for various industries.
Questions about Image Sensor Technology: 1. How does the alignment circuit ensure accurate alignment of pixel signals? 2. What are the potential limitations of using A/D conversion operations for generating depth information signals?
Original Abstract Submitted
Disclosed is an image sensor including first and second pixels arranged in a first row, for outputting first and second pixel signals through first and third column lines during a unit row time; third and fourth pixels arranged in a second row, for outputting third and fourth pixel signals through second and fourth column lines during the unit row time; an alignment circuit for aligning the first to fourth pixel signals for each row, and outputting first to fourth alignment signals, according to control signals; a first signal conversion circuit for generating a first depth information signal corresponding to a difference in voltage levels between the first and second alignment signals, through one A/D conversion operation; and a second signal conversion circuit for generating a second depth information signal, corresponding to a difference in voltage levels between the third and fourth alignment signals, through one A/D conversion operation.
