From Photography to Medicine: The Versatility of Image Sensors

 An image sensor is a device that allows a camera to convert photons or light into electrical signals. Millions of pixels are found on a single chip. The sensor measures the intensity of the light but also captures more properties, such as angle, spectrum, and many others.  

 

For simple tasks such as photography, intensity data from the three-color bands (RGB) is enough. In advanced applications like autonomous vehicles, biomedical imaging, or robotics, more information about incoming light can improve decision-making. As per the recent report by Allied Market Research, the image sensor industry is projected to witness the fastest growth from 2023 to 2032.  

 

What are the different types of image sensors?  

 

There are two types of image sensors namely, Charge-coupled Device (CCD) and Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS). A CCD image sensor is composed of a chain of capacitors, each holding a charge that is proportional to the intensity of light on that pixel. A control circuit in the sensor sends each capacitor to dump its charge into the next capacitor in the chain, and the last capacitor in the chain dumps its charge into an amplifier. This process of data transfer is somewhat like a "bucket brigade," a characteristic feature of CCD sensors.  

 

A CMOS image sensor includes an amplifier and a photodiode for each pixel, enabling signal magnification and amplification. The ability to direct and sequential processing through controls on the switches will contribute to much faster performance compared with a CCD sensor. The amplification for each pixel further leads to a reduction in noise during the conversion of the electrical signals resulting from captured light.  

 

The working mechanism of image sensors  

 

An image sensor in a camera system captures photons focused through a lens or optics. This information is sent to the next stage via the voltage or digital signal based on the type of sensor used. A CMOS sensor's primary purpose is to convert photons into electrons and transform them into a voltage or digital value using an ADC, an analog-to-digital converter.  

The components used in the camera may vary from one manufacturer to another. This design primarily aims at converting light into a digital signal that is analyzed to trigger certain actions. Consumer cameras are usually accompanied by other components for storing and displaying images, while machine vision cameras rarely have this feature.  

 

Heightened resolutions and pixel densities  

One of the most notable advancements in image sensor technology is the continuous improvement in resolution and pixel density. Modern sensors now provide the capability to capture images with exceptional detail and clarity. The demand for higher resolutions has been fueled by applications in industrial systems, as well as mapping platforms and aerial imaging. Today, sensors with resolutions surpassing 150 megapixels are available and all get assembled in a compact package measuring around 60 mm diagonally.  

 

Infrared performance in low light  

 

A focus on the development of sensors has been spectral responsivity, which means how well a sensor captures light. This indicates that a more sensitive sensor requires less light to capture an image, resulting in faster image acquisition. For security and surveillance and even in autonomous driving applications, such improvements facilitate better imaging at dusk and night. Back-side illumination (BSI) has been critical in enabling responsivity improvements. For infrared or heat-sensitive detectors, recent breakthroughs have led to the realization of higher-resolution imagers that provide more scene detail and can detect smaller defects farther away.  

 

Wave of miniaturization  

 

The development of sensors has been driven primarily by demand from consumers, who desire miniaturization and the reduction of power consumption. In industries such as smartphones, portable devices, and the IoT, there is a steady demand for more data, but physical size and power efficiency are the major limiting factors. System-on-chip (SoC) platforms have made great leaps, enabling sensors to place processing, memory, and other peripheral devices on a single chip. These developments have played a critical role in the growth and improved performance of robotics and other remote sensing applications.  

 

Applicability of image sensors in the life science sector  

 

Radiology requires high resolution for image capture to distinguish finer details for early diagnosis and detection of medical conditions. Professionals employ CMOS sensors in this field to significantly reduce treatment costs, improve patient recovery, enhance early illness detection, and enable timely intervention.  

 

On the other hand, vision sensors are being widely used in ophthalmology applications, with the latest techniques and therapies aimed at preventing and specialized treatments for diseases such as cataracts, retinal detachment, and glaucoma, among others. The primary requirements for imaging components in ophthalmology include consistency, sensitivity, reproducibility, long service life, and exceptional image quality, all of which are critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. 

 

Image technology and vision sensors require the highest performance for scientific and medical diagnostic laboratory applications. 3D sensors allow for faster processing of analysis, combined with the accuracy and superior image quality required for precise diagnostics and research techniques. From simple tasks such as weighing to complex vision requirements in imaging analysis devices, sensors are critical in pathology and life sciences research applications.  

 

Samsung introduced versatile image sensors  

 

In June 2024, Samsung Electronics, a global leader in advanced semiconductor technology, announced three new mobile image sensors designed for both main and sub cameras in smartphones, the ISOCELL JN5, ISOCELL GNJ, and ISOCELL HP9. Samsung's latest image sensors offer exceptional performance from every angle, establishing a new benchmark for mobile photography.  

 

OMNIVISION launched new high-resolution image sensors in June 2024  

 

OMNIVISION, a leading global developer of semiconductor solutions, including advanced digital imaging, analog, and touch & display technologies, announced the addition of two new image sensors. These sensors are part of OMNIVISION’s comprehensive portfolio of solutions for industrial and consumer security surveillance cameras.  

 

Final words  

 

Image sensors play a crucial role in advancing technologies across various fields, from consumer electronics to medical and industrial applications. With continuous improvements in resolution, sensitivity, and miniaturization, these sensors are enabling faster, more accurate data capture, leading to better decision-making, diagnostics, and performance in diverse sectors.  

Similar Report:  

https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/flat-panel-antenna-market-A17134