Simulation and implementation of a reconfigurable dual-function pixel

Abstract

This paper presents the simulation and implementation of a reconfigurable pixel that serves both data acquisition and energy harvesting purposes. The main topic focuses on switching between the two operating modes of the photodiode: photoconductive and photovoltaic modes. This proposed model can be used to design novel optical sensors with energy harvesting capability, such as position sensitive device (PSD) and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors, which can extend the battery lifetime of the whole optical system. Thus, we can overcome power supply problems like wiring and changing batteries frequently, especially in hard-to-reach places like space (cube satellites) or even underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC). The proposed pixel architecture offers the advantage of a minimalistic design with only four transistors. Nevertheless, it does come with a drawback in the form of higher noise levels. The simulation was achieved using MATLAB, and the implementation was performed using the programmable system-on-chip (PSoC) microcontroller. The results showed that the functionality of the dual-function pixel is correct, and the scheduling of both energy harvesting and signal sensing functions was successfully achieved.

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