Dual Row Memory Architecture for Solid State Imaging Signal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid state imaging devices face challenges in achieving high-quality images due to unstable signal storage and reading in row memories, particularly in high-definition applications where horizontal blanking periods are short, leading to signal degradation and inaccurate image representation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a solid state imaging device with two row memories operating in parallel, allowing simultaneous signal reading and storage operations across different pixel rows, thereby extending the time available for memory operations beyond the horizontal blanking period and reducing noise interference from drive pulses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If signals are read from pixels and stored in row memories during the horizontal active period, then the operation speed is improved, but signal stability deteriorates and images are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging device into two independent systems: first pixels with first row memories, and second pixels with second row memories. This segmentation allows simultaneous independent operation of two memory systems, enabling one memory to store signals while the other outputs signals, thereby resolving the contradiction between fast operation and signal stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the memory operation by enabling overlapping execution of storage and output operations through dual-memory architecture. The first memory stores signals from first pixels while the second memory outputs signals from second pixels, and vice versa, effectively adding a parallel operational dimension that resolves the time conflict between storage and output
2Manufacturing precision
If the horizontal blanking period is shortened for high-definition imaging, then the imaging resolution is improved, but the time for memory operations is reduced causing signal instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous useful action by making the memory operation time extend beyond the horizontal blanking period into the horizontal active period. The dual-memory architecture allows storage operations to continue while output operations occur in parallel, eliminating idle time and ensuring continuous productive operation despite shortened blanking periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by completing signal storage in one memory system before the horizontal blanking period ends, allowing the other memory system to begin output operations. This preliminary completion of storage ensures that signal stability is maintained even when the blanking period is shortened for high-definition imaging
Data Source
AI summary
A solid state imaging device includes an imaging area where a plurality of first pixels and a plurality of second pixels are respectively arranged in the form of a matrix, each of the first pixels and the second pixels having a photoelectric conversion portion and outputting a signal in accordance with brightness of incident light when selected; a plurality of first memories that respectively store signals of selected first pixels out of the plurality of first pixels; and a plurality of second memories that are respectively connected in parallel to the first memories and respectively store signals of selected second pixels out of the plurality of second pixels. The signals stored in the first memories and in the second memories are successively read to a horizontal signal line.