Sk hynix inc. (20240323568). IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF simplified abstract
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 20240323568 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF
The abstract describes an image sensor with first and second pixels in a row, outputting signals through column lines during a unit row time. An alignment circuit aligns pixel signals for each row, generating alignment signals. Signal conversion circuits generate depth information signals based on voltage level differences between alignment signals.
- Image sensor with pixel alignment and depth information generation
- Pixels arranged in rows with signal output through column lines
- Alignment circuit aligns pixel signals and generates alignment signals
- Signal conversion circuits generate depth information based on voltage level differences
- Innovative technology for improved image sensor performance
Potential Applications: - Advanced camera systems - Depth sensing applications - Robotics and automation - Medical imaging devices - Security systems
Problems Solved: - Improved accuracy in depth information - Enhanced image sensor performance - Simplified signal processing - Increased precision in alignment
Benefits: - Higher quality image capture - Enhanced depth perception - Improved sensor functionality - Potential for new applications in various industries
Commercial Applications: Title: Advanced Image Sensor Technology for Depth Sensing Applications This technology can be utilized in various commercial applications such as: - Smartphone cameras - Autonomous vehicles - Augmented reality devices - Industrial inspection systems - Biometric security devices
Questions about Image Sensor Technology:
1. How does the alignment circuit improve the performance of the image sensor? The alignment circuit ensures accurate alignment of pixel signals, leading to improved image quality and depth information generation.
2. What are the potential implications of this technology in the field of robotics? This technology could enhance the capabilities of robotic systems by providing accurate depth perception and image capture for navigation and object recognition tasks.
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.
