Abstract: A pixel array architecture having multiple pixel cells arranged in a split trunk pixel layout and sharing common pixel cell components. The array architecture increases the fill factor, and in turn, the quantum efficiency of the pixel cells. The common pixel cell components may be shared by a number of pixels in the array, and may include several components that are associated with the storage and readout of a signal from the pixel cells.

Abstract: A method and system for estimating global motion in digital imaging applications with confidence level filtering. Motion search yields a plurality of vectors describing the movement of feature blocks from one frame to another. A confidence level is assigned to each motion vector. Based on the confidence levels, vectors are given more or less weight when estimating global motion. High-confidence vectors are given more weight than low-confidence vectors. Embodiments for estimating both the magnitude of global motion and the magnitude and direction of global motion are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for compressing image data include a plurality of core encoders for receiving a respective plurality of streams of data in parallel and for compressing the received data, a plurality of output buffers for respectively receiving the compressed data from each of the plurality of core encoders, and a recombination circuit for recombining the compressed data.

Abstract: Regions of an integrated circuit are isolated by a structure that includes at least one isolating trench on the periphery of an active area. The trench is deep, extending at least about 0.5 ?m into the substrate. The isolating structure prevents photons and electrons originating in peripheral circuitry from reaching the active area. Where the substrate has a heavily-doped lower layer and an upper layer on it, the trench can extend through the upper layer to the lower layer. A thermal oxide can be grown on the trench walls. A liner can also be deposited on the sidewalls of each trench. A fill material having a high-extinction coefficient is then deposited over the liner. The liner can also be light absorbent so that both the liner and fill material block photons.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying exposure compensation to an image. Exposure correction limits inclusion of, but does not ignore, image highlights and lowlights.

Abstract: An imaging device driver for transmitting a signal onto a signal line for controlling transistors of a pixel row. The device includes a controller and associated circuitry for reducing shoot-through current within and between row driver circuits for driving the signal line. The controller reduces shoot-through current by preventing concurrent transmission of high and low signal outputs to the signal line by respective high and low voltage sources of the same or different row driver circuits.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for correcting defective pixel signals, wherein pixel signals are corrected in accordance with correction information associated with operating conditions under which an image is acquired. A method for acquiring and storing correction information in an imager device is also provided.

Abstract: Various embodiments comprise apparatus, methods, and systems that include an amplification apparatus comprising a first input, a second input, and an output, a first plurality of series-connected transistors including a first transistor having a first channel ratio and a first gate coupled to the first input, and a second plurality of series-connected transistors including a second transistor having a second channel ratio that is greater than the first channel ratio, the second transistor including a second gate coupled to the second input.

Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatuses for modeling high resolution images which significantly shortens computation time and reduces image artifacts, as compared to known methods. Embodiments implement a look-up table, to compute once and store the point spread functions for various points of an image. During modeling of the optical system, previously stored point spread functions may be used to determine the point spread function for a specified point using a weighted interpolation of the point spread functions that have been stored for nearby points.