BDI based pixel for synchronous frame-based and asynchronous event-driven readouts

A method of obtaining imagery, the method comprising:

• using a focal plane array comprising a plurality of pixels, each pixel comprising:
• a frame-based capture circuit;
• an event-driven capture circuit;
• and
• a photodiode in electrical communication with both the frame-based and event-driven capture circuits,
• wherein the frame-based capture circuit is a buffered direct injection circuit,
• and
• wherein the event-driven capture circuit is a dynamic vision system circuit, capturing largely static images using the frame-based capture circuit;
• and capturing motions of fast-moving objects using the event-driven capture circuit.

A hybrid frame-based and event driven pixel, the pixel comprising:

• a frame-based capture circuit;
• an event-driven capture circuit;
• a pipeline storage element configured to allow for a true integrate-while-readout mode of operation by row dominate addressing;
• and
• a photodiode in electrical communication with both the frame-based and event-driven capture circuits,
• wherein the frame-based capture circuit is a buffered direct injection circuit,
• wherein the event-driven capture circuit is a dynamic vision system circuit,
• wherein the buffered direct injection circuit is shielded from control signals used in the dynamic vision system circuit, and
• wherein the pixel comprises an explicit integration capacitor, an explicit sample capacitor and a sample transmission switch configured to provide linear response characteristics and high charge capability.