Samsung electronics co., ltd. (20240323569). IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF simplified abstract
Contents
IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Kyung-Min Kim of SUWON-SI (KR)
Young Tae Jang of SUWON-SI (KR)
IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240323569 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF
The abstract describes an image sensor with a pixel containing two photodiodes, a storage capacitor, an overflow transistor, and a read circuit. The pixel can output different sub-output signals with varying conversion gains based on the electric charge generated by the photodiodes during an exposure period.
- The image sensor has a pixel with two photodiodes, allowing for versatile signal output.
- Different conversion gains are used to obtain sub-output signals from the electric charge generated by the photodiodes.
- The sensor can output reset signals corresponding to the sub-output signals for calibration purposes.
- A portion of the electric charge from one photodiode can be converted with a different gain to produce another sub-output signal.
- The sensor can convert and output the electric charge stored in the storage capacitor with a specific conversion gain.
Potential Applications: - This technology can be used in digital cameras, smartphones, and other imaging devices. - It can enhance image quality and dynamic range in photography and videography applications.
Problems Solved: - Provides a more flexible and efficient way to capture and process image data. - Allows for better control over signal output and calibration in image sensors.
Benefits: - Improved image quality and dynamic range. - Enhanced performance and versatility in image capture. - Calibration capabilities for accurate signal processing.
Commercial Applications: Title: Advanced Image Sensor Technology for Enhanced Photography This technology can be utilized in the development of high-quality digital cameras, smartphones, and surveillance systems. It can cater to the growing demand for superior image quality and enhanced performance in various imaging applications.
Prior Art: Readers can explore prior patents related to image sensor technology, photodiode configurations, and signal processing methods to understand the evolution of this innovation.
Frequently Updated Research: Researchers are constantly working on improving image sensor technology, exploring new ways to enhance image quality, dynamic range, and signal processing efficiency.
Questions about Image Sensor Technology: 1. How does this image sensor technology compare to traditional sensor designs? This technology offers more flexibility and control over signal output, leading to improved image quality and dynamic range compared to traditional designs.
2. What are the potential implications of using different conversion gains for signal processing in image sensors? Using different conversion gains allows for more precise control over signal output, enabling better calibration and optimization of image data.
Original Abstract Submitted
an image sensor includes a pixel having first and second photodiodes, a storage capacitor, an overflow transistor, and a read circuit. the pixel is configured to output a first sub-output signal obtained by converting electric charge generated by the first photodiode during an exposure period with first conversion gain, output a second sub-output signal obtained by converting the electric charge generated by the first photodiode during the exposure period with second conversion gain, output a first reset signal corresponding to the first sub-output signal and a second reset signal corresponding to the second sub-output signal, output a third sub-output signal, which is obtained by converting a portion of electric charge generated by the second photodiode during the exposure period with third conversion gain, output a fourth sub-output signal, obtained by converting the electric charge generated by the second photodiode and stored in the storage capacitor during the exposure period, with fourth conversion gain, and output a third reset signal corresponding to the third sub-output signal and a fourth reset signal corresponding to the fourth sub-output signal.
