An LED-based image sensor with energy harvesting and projection capabilities

摘要

This paper presents a proof-of-concept image sensor with triple functionality: sensing, energy harvesting and image projection. This triple functionality is achieved by employing light emitting diodes (LEDs) to implement the pixels in the sensor. Depending on its polarization, an LED can work in three different regions which allow three different functions. In the proposed sensor a network switch is used to bias the LED pixels in these three different regions. The LED-based image sensor can be used in space and weight constrained applications such as micro aerial vehicles, robotics and structured light imaging applications. A proof-of-concept prototype was built and tested. The prototype incorporates a 20×20 LED array and supporting circuitry. Test results shows that the proposed device can work as an image sensor, an energy harvester and an image projector.