Solid-State Image Sensor Electrode Control for Residual Image Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
In solid-state imaging devices, inadequate voltage differences between lower electrodes and shield electrodes can deteriorate pixel properties, leading to decreased sensor sensitivity and residual images.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device with a third electrode disposed between adjacent first electrodes, electrically insulated, whose voltage is controlled to optimize the voltage difference, assisting in charge discharge and transfer based on detection results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shield electrode is disposed for separation between lower electrodes of a pixel, then coupling between pixels is prevented and readout speed is improved, but inadequate voltage difference between lower electrode and shield electrode deteriorates pixel property
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by making the shield electrode voltage controllable and adjustable. The shield electrode voltage is no longer fixed but can be dynamically adjusted to optimize the voltage difference between the lower electrode and shield electrode. This allows the system to adapt to different operating conditions and maintain optimal pixel performance while preventing coupling between pixels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Parameter changes by modifying the voltage parameter of the shield electrode. By changing the shield electrode voltage from a fixed value to a controllable variable, the system can optimize the voltage difference to prevent pixel property deterioration while maintaining the shielding function. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining reliability and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If shield electrode voltage is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but pixel property deteriorates due to inadequate voltage difference control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Universality principle by making the shield electrode serve multiple functions: it acts as both a shielding element to prevent coupling between pixels and a controllable voltage element to optimize pixel performance. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to address both the shielding requirement and the voltage difference control requirement, reducing the need for additional separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the shield electrode voltage dynamic and adjustable, allowing it to adapt to different operating conditions. This dynamic control enables the system to maintain optimal pixel performance across various scenarios without requiring completely separate control mechanisms, thereby balancing reliability improvement with acceptable device complexity.
3Productivity
If voltage difference between lower electrode and shield electrode is increased, then charge discharge is improved, but sensor sensitivity decreases due to excessive discharge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the Feedback principle by using detection results to control the shield electrode voltage. The system detects the actual charge conditions and adjusts the shield electrode voltage accordingly to achieve optimal charge discharge without excessive discharge. This closed-loop control ensures that charge discharge efficiency is improved while sensor sensitivity is maintained by preventing over-discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies Dynamics by making the shield electrode voltage adjustable based on detection results. The voltage is dynamically optimized to achieve the right balance between charge discharge efficiency and sensor sensitivity. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to improve productivity while maintaining reliability by preventing excessive charge discharge.
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 improves pixel properties by preventing excessive charge discharge and residual images, maintaining sensor sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
improve a readout speed of electric charges by applying a lateral electric field
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a light detecting device, including a first electrode and a third electrode formed on a semiconductor layer, a photoelectric conversion layer formed on the first electrode and the third electrode, a second electrode formed on the photoelectric conversion layer, and an insulation film is disposed between the third electrode and the photoelectric conversion layer. A voltage of the third electrode is controlled to a voltage corresponding to a detection result which can contribute to control of discharge of charges or assist for transfer of charges.