University of Minnesota

University of Michigan

Jaehyuk Choi

Euisik Yoon

A CMOS imaging sensor with embedded feature extraction capability operatable in different modes by a method that includes the steps of: (a) operating the CMOS imaging sensor in a motion-detecting mode at a first power level using circuitry on the imaging sensor that generates motion data based on received images detected by pixels in the pixel array; (b) switching the imaging sensor from the motion-detecting mode to a feature extraction mode in response to detecting motion; and (c) operating the imaging sensor in the feature extraction mode at a second power level that is higher than the first power level.

CMOS image sensors with feature extraction

This disclosure describes: (1) two different schemes to enhance dynamic range, (2) a new motion detection scheme using in-pixel digital storage, and (3) the motion detection in high illumination for CMOS image sensors. The schemes may be implemented in a small pixel size and easily incorporated in simple column-level circuits for existing CMOS image sensor systems.

Image sensor with high dynamic range imaging and integrated motion detection

A sensor includes an array of pixels to capture an image, the array of pixels arranged as a plurality of pixel groups, each of the pixel groups having a two or more pixels coupled to a shared floating diffusion node for outputting merged image signals from the pixel groups, at least one inter-pixel switch to control transfer of electrical charge from a floating diffusion node for a first one of the pixel groups to a floating diffusion node for a second one of the pixel groups to temporarily store a portion of a previous image frame within the floating diffusion node for the second one of the pixel groups, and a motion comparator to compare an image signal from the first one of the pixel groups with an image signal from the second one of the pixel groups to detect motion between a current frame and the previous frame.

Growing community of inventors

Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America

Jaehyuk Choi