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For the Inventor, By the Inventor

Santa Clara, CA, United States of America

Zhimin Zhou

This inventor holds 11 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: California Institute of Technology, Pixart Technology, Inc.. Active years: 1998-2004.

IDiyas Innovation Intelligence. (2026). Inventor Profile: Zhimin Zhou. Retrieved from https://idiyas.com/inventor/zhimin-zhou-02wyipha

Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile

Calculating rank
USPTO Granted Patents = 11

% Patents Active = 100.0

Average Co-Inventor Count = 3.0

ph-index = 10

Forward Citations = 1,276(Granted Patents)


Location History:

  • Pacific Palisades, CA (US) (1999 - 2000)
  • Los Angeles, CA (US) (1998 - 2003)
  • Santa Clara, CA (US) (1999 - 2004)

Company Filing History:

goldMedal9 out of 4,632 
 
California Institute of Technology
 patents
silverMedal2 out of 3 
 
Pixart Technology, Inc.
 patents

Years Active: 1998-2004

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11 patents (USPTO):Explore Patents
1. 6801258 - CMOS integration sensor with fully differential column readout circuit for light adaptive imaging (2004-10-05),
2. 6787749 - Integrated sensor with frame memory and programmable resolution for light adaptive imaging (2004-09-07),
3. 6665013 - Active pixel sensor having intra-pixel charge transfer with analog-to-digital converter (2003-12-16),
4. 6580455 - High definition image sensor (2003-06-17),
5. 6124819 - Charge integration successive approximation analog-to-digital converter (2000-09-26),
6. 6021172 - Active pixel sensor having intra-pixel charge transfer with (2000-02-01),
7. 5965871 - Column readout multiplexer for CMOS image sensors with multiple readout (1999-10-12),
8. 5929800 - Charge integration successive approximation analog-to-digital converter (1999-07-27),
9. 5909026 - Integrated sensor with frame memory and programmable resolution for (1999-06-01),
10. 5880691 - Capacitively coupled successive approximation ultra low power (1999-03-09),
11. 5793322 - Successive approximation analog-to-digital converter using balanced (1998-08-11),

Title: Zhimin Zhou: A Pioneer in Light Adaptive Imaging Technologies

Introduction

Zhimin Zhou is an esteemed inventor based in Santa Clara, CA, recognized for his significant contributions to imaging technology. With a remarkable portfolio of 11 patents, Zhou has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of light adaptive imaging systems, particularly focusing on low-light detection.

Latest Patents

Among Zhou's latest innovations are two groundbreaking patents. The first, titled "CMOS Integration Sensor with Fully Differential Column Readout Circuit for Light Adaptive Imaging," presents an imager designed for enhanced low-light detection. This advanced imager allows for multi-resolution capability, with an adjusted signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for optimal low-level detectability. It includes on-chip multi-resolution signal processing for high-speed imaging while minimizing power consumption. Additionally, the architecture utilizes an improved pixel binning method that eliminates extraneous noise, significantly reducing chip size and facilitating larger area implementations.

The second patent, "Integrated Sensor with Frame Memory and Programmable Resolution for Light Adaptive Imaging," describes an image sensor that adjusts its output spatial resolution based on the received light level while maintaining a consistent desired SNR. This innovation utilizes signals from neighboring pixels to enhance both image brightness and SNR. It incorporates a frame memory for full frame storage alongside self-calibration column integrators, effectively canceling fixed pattern noise.

Career Highlights

Zhou's career is marked by his tenure at renowned institutions, including the California Institute of Technology and Pixart Technology, Inc. His work has positioned him as a leading figure in the field of imaging technology, contributing innovative solutions that address the challenges associated with low-light conditions.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Zhou has collaborated with distinguished peers, including Bedabrata Pain and Eric R Fossum. These partnerships have been pivotal in advancing research and development in imaging technologies, further enhancing the practical applications of their innovations.

Conclusion

Zhimin Zhou's contributions to light adaptive imaging represent a significant leap forward in the capabilities of modern imaging systems. His innovative patents and collaborative work reflect a deep commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology, making him a prominent inventor in his field. As the demand for advanced imaging solutions continues to grow, Zhou's inventions are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of visual technology.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.
Data Sources: USPTO Patent Grant XML, Patent Center, EPO & CIPO • Normalized by IDiyas Innovation Graph. Methodology & provenance architecturePlease report any incorrect information to [email protected]
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