Floating Diffusion Capacitance Control for Adaptive Image Sensor Gain

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image sensing devices face challenges in efficiently processing image data due to limitations in adjusting the conversion gain ratio, which affects the quality and accuracy of image capture.

Innovation Solution

The image sensing device incorporates a pixel circuit that adjusts the capacitance value of a floating diffusion node using a plurality of selection control signals, allowing for dynamic control of the conversion gain ratio.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the capacitance value of the floating diffusion node is fixed, then the circuit design is simple, but the conversion gain ratio cannot be adjusted to optimize performance under varying illuminance conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of conversion gain ratioVSAvoidcomplexity of pixel circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of the floating diffusion node capacitance by introducing multiple selection transistors (first selection transistor, second selection transistor) that can be selectively activated based on illuminance conditions. This allows the capacitance value to be dynamically adjusted between different states, enabling the conversion gain ratio to adapt to varying lighting environments while maintaining a relatively simple circuit structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If multiple selection transistors are added to adjust capacitance, then conversion gain ratio can be optimized, but the pixel circuit structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage quality under varying illuminanceVSAvoidnumber of transistors in pixel circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by making different parts of the pixel circuit have different functions. Specifically, the first selection transistor and second selection transistor are designed with different characteristics to provide distinct capacitance adjustment options. This allows the circuit to optimize image quality under different illuminance conditions by selectively activating the appropriate transistor, while keeping the overall circuit complexity manageable through targeted local modifications rather than comprehensive redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 solution enables the image sensing device to achieve various conversion gain ratios, enhancing the quality and accuracy of image capture by effectively processing image data.

Implementation Method 1

a photoelectric conversion element structured to detect incident light to generate photocharge carrying an image in the incident light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12207010B2Image sensing device including floating diffusion node with controllable capacitance and operation method thereof
Publication Date: 2025.01.21 SK HYNIX INC
  • US12207010B2 patent drawing
  • US12207010B2 patent drawing
  • US12207010B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image sensing device may include a pixel circuit and a driving control circuit. The pixel circuit is configured to store photocharge, generated by a photoelectric conversion element, as image information. The driving control circuit may control the pixel circuit to adjust the signal conversion gain ratio depending on the illuminance of the incident light at the image sensing device.