Since April 2015, with an expected completion date in 2018, Adimec has been a key partner in the CISTERN project—an initiative focused on advancing CMOS image sensor technology. We’re now sharing some of our initial findings, including progress on low-light CMOS cameras for security applications.

The primary objective of CISTERN is to research and develop technologies needed for future advancements across several industries, such as broadcast & entertainment, high-end security, and multi-spectral imaging. The project’s full name—Cmos Image Sensor TEchnlogies’ Readiness for Next generation of applications (hence the acronym)—reflects its goal of bridging technology gaps to prepare CMOS sensors for emerging applications.

Other partners in this collaborative effort include Grass Valley (project leader), Thales Angenieux, SoftKinetic Sensors, Delft University of Technology, and the University of Burgundy. Together, we’re tackling key challenges in image sensor development:

  • Enhanced pixels: Reducing noise and increasing dynamic range while introducing new functionalities directly within each pixel.
  • Higher resolution: Achieving greater spatial and temporal resolutions, including support for UHD (Ultra High Definition) or UHDTV standards for broadcast and security applications.
  • Sensor-related processing: Integrating advanced algorithms to improve sensor performance and image quality.

The program’s goals include:

  1. Developing next-generation CMOS sensors with improved pixel designs.
  2. Creating real-time image processing techniques to enhance image quality further.
  3. Enabling multispectral imaging through hybridization—combining specialized filter arrays onto standard CMOS sensors.
  4. Demonstrating the performance improvements of these advanced sensors and their supporting processing systems via practical demonstrators.
  5. Designing UHD-resolution, widely adaptable sensor zoom lenses optimized for various applications.
  6. Developing compact camera lens assemblies suitable for security applications that deliver UHDTV-level performance without the bulk of traditional high-definition systems.

Adimec is contributing its expertise in video processing tailored to security and integrated camera lens solutions. Our recent demonstrations include prototypes of cutting-edge CMOS cameras designed for low-light global security scenarios, showcasing some early successes from this collaboration.

The CISTERN project was part of the Cluster for Application and Technology Research in Europe on NanoElectronics (CATRENE), a strategic initiative aimed at fostering nano- and microelectronics innovation to support major projects aligned with societal needs. For more details, visit the official CISTERN website at www.cistern.nl.

Last Updated: 2025-09-04 20:42:07