Samsung electronics co., ltd. (20240121526). IMAGE SENSOR, METHOD OF OPERATING THE IMAGE SENSOR, AND IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE simplified abstract

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IMAGE SENSOR, METHOD OF OPERATING THE IMAGE SENSOR, AND IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE

Organization Name

samsung electronics co., ltd.

Inventor(s)

Eunsub Shim of Suwon-si (KR)

IMAGE SENSOR, METHOD OF OPERATING THE IMAGE SENSOR, AND IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240121526 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR, METHOD OF OPERATING THE IMAGE SENSOR, AND IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes an image sensor that can capture images using different exposure times for each pixel, allowing for improved image quality and dynamic range.

  • Pixel array generates analog signals based on charge accumulation during different exposure times.
  • Analog-to-digital conversion circuit converts analog signals to digital signals using different ramp signals.
  • Image signal processor generates image data based on the digital signals.
  • Different ramp signals used for each exposure time to improve image quality.

Potential Applications

This technology could be used in digital cameras, smartphones, security cameras, and other imaging devices to enhance image quality and dynamic range.

Problems Solved

1. Improved image quality by capturing images with different exposure times. 2. Increased dynamic range by using different ramp signals for analog-to-digital conversion.

Benefits

1. Enhanced image quality and detail. 2. Increased dynamic range for better contrast in images. 3. Improved performance in low-light conditions.

Potential Commercial Applications

"Enhancing Image Quality and Dynamic Range in Imaging Devices"

Possible Prior Art

There may be prior art related to image sensors with variable exposure times and analog-to-digital conversion circuits with different ramp signals, but specific examples are not provided in this patent application.

Unanswered Questions

How does this technology compare to existing image sensor technologies?

This article does not provide a direct comparison with other image sensor technologies on the market.

What are the potential limitations or drawbacks of using different exposure times for each pixel?

The article does not address any potential limitations or drawbacks of this technology, such as increased processing requirements or potential artifacts in the final image.


Original Abstract Submitted

an image sensor includes a pixel array, an analog-to-digital conversion circuit, and an image signal processor. a pixel of the pixel array generates a first analog signal based on a quantity of charge accumulated during a first exposure time and generate a second analog signal based on a quantity of charge accumulated during a shorter second exposure time. the analog-to-digital conversion circuit may generate a first digital signal based on the first analog signal and a first ramp signal and may generate a second digital signal based on the second analog signal and a second ramp signal. the image signal processor may generate image data based on the first and second digital signals. the first ramp signal may be different from the second ramp signal in terms of at least one of a ramping time or a ramping start voltage level.