A Wide-Dynamic-Range CMOS Image Sensor With Gating for Night Vision Systems

This brief presents a novel concept for a global multishuttering CMOS image sensor with linear wide-dynamic-range (WDR) implementation for night vision systems. The proposed imager is synchronized with an external active pulsed light source and is suitable for surveillance, automotive, and military applications. The proposed imager provides a linear WDR by applying adaptive exposure time to each pixel according to the local intensity level of illumination. Each pixel has a size of 13.75 μm × 13.75 μm, consists of only eight transistors, dissipates 100 nW, and provides dynamic range expansion of up to 98 dB. System architecture and algorithm are described. Pixel structure and design are analyzed according to charge injection considerations and signal-to-noise ratio requirements. Sensor principle of operation is presented, and simulation and experimental results for the proof of the concept are shown.