Avalanche Diode Array Control for Power and Readout Speed
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Photon-counting image capturing apparatuses using avalanche diodes face challenges with high power consumption and slow signal readout speeds due to constant avalanche multiplication in photoelectric conversion elements.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a selection unit system that controls photoelectric conversion elements to alternate between active and inactive states based on control lines, allowing for selective signal readout, reducing unnecessary power consumption and improving readout speed by thinning out readout regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If avalanche multiplication is constantly caused in each photoelectric conversion element to read out signals, then signal readout completeness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by alternating the avalanche multiplication operation between two groups of photoelectric conversion elements. While one group performs avalanche multiplication and signal readout, the other group is in a non-operational state. This periodic switching between active and inactive states reduces overall power consumption while ensuring that signals from all elements are eventually read out across different time periods.
2Measurement precision
If avalanche multiplication is constantly caused in each photoelectric conversion element to read out signals, then signal readout completeness is improved, but readout time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the photoelectric conversion elements into two distinct groups (first and second groups) that are controlled independently. By dividing the array into segments and alternating their operational states, the system can perform parallel readout operations across different time periods, effectively reducing the total readout time while maintaining completeness of signal acquisition from all elements.
3Speed
If all photoelectric conversion elements operate simultaneously to read out signals, then signal readout speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating the operational states of two groups of photoelectric conversion elements. During each time period, one group is activated for avalanche multiplication and signal readout while the other group remains inactive. This approach maintains high readout speed during active periods while significantly reducing average power consumption across the entire array over time.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces power consumption and enhances signal readout speed by selectively activating only necessary photoelectric conversion elements, optimizing performance in image capturing applications.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the plurality of photoelectric conversion elements includes an avalanche diode and a counter configured to count signals based on light incident on the avalanche diode
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements, a first selection unit, and a second selection unit. Each of the photoelectric conversion elements includes an avalanche diode and a counter. The photoelectric conversion elements have a first photoelectric conversion element and a second photoelectric conversion element. The first selection unit controls the first photoelectric conversion element. The second selection unit controls the second photoelectric conversion element. The first and second selection units are controlled by a first control line and a second control line. In a first mode, the second selection unit controls the second photoelectric conversion element to be brought into a state where no signal is read from the second photoelectric conversion element. In a second mode, the second selection unit controls the second photoelectric conversion element to be brought into a state where a signal is read from the second photoelectric conversion element.