Imaging Device Dynamic Signal Line Coupling for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging devices face challenges in achieving high image quality due to limitations in signal processing and conversion methods, particularly in coupling multiple signal lines effectively to enhance image capture.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device configuration that includes a pixel array, a connector with control circuits, and AD converters, where the connector dynamically couples signal lines based on voltage levels to optimize AD conversion, allowing for improved image quality by controlling the operation of connection switches and converters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple signal lines are short-circuited to increase image quality, then image quality is improved, but signal interference and noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different signal line connection states using control circuits. The connection switches can couple or uncouple signal lines based on real-time signal conditions, transitioning from static short-circuiting to dynamic adaptive connection management. This resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to optimize image quality while minimizing signal interference through controlled, conditional coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuits monitor signal voltages and automatically adjust the coupling state of connection switches based on detected signal conditions. This feedback mechanism allows the system to respond to signal quality changes in real-time, coupling signal lines when it improves image quality and uncoupling them when interference increases, thereby resolving the contradiction between image quality enhancement and noise reduction.
2Measurement precision
If signal lines are coupled to improve AD conversion accuracy, then conversion accuracy is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signal processing function into multiple independent connection switches, each controlled by its own control circuit. This segmentation allows selective coupling of specific signal lines based on their individual characteristics, improving AD conversion accuracy for critical signals while avoiding unnecessary coupling that would increase complexity. The modular approach enables precision where needed without universal complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuits automatically manage the coupling and uncoupling of signal lines based on real-time voltage detection, eliminating the need for manual or centralized control. This self-service mechanism reduces the operational complexity of managing multiple signal lines while maintaining high AD conversion accuracy, as the system autonomously optimizes its own configuration without additional control overhead.
3Measurement precision
If connection switches are controlled based on voltage levels, then signal processing accuracy is improved, but control circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuits serve as intermediaries between the signal lines and the connection switches, translating voltage level information into switching control decisions. This intermediary function simplifies the overall control architecture by localizing the intelligence needed for voltage-based control within each control circuit, rather than requiring a complex centralized control system. The intermediary approach maintains high signal processing accuracy while managing control circuit complexity through functional decomposition.
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 configuration enhances image quality by effectively processing pixel voltages from multiple signal lines, reducing noise and improving the accuracy of captured images.
Implementation Method 1
a photodiode PD, a transistor TG, and a floating diffusion FD. The pixel P outputs, as a signal SIG, a pixel voltage Vpix corresponding to an amount of incident light
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device according to the present disclosure includes an imaging unit, a connector, and a converter. The imaging unit includes a first signal line, a first pixel, a second signal line, and a second pixel. The first pixel outputs a first pixel voltage to the first signal line. The first pixel voltage corresponds to an amount of received light. The second pixel outputs a second pixel voltage to the second signal line. The second pixel voltage corresponds to the amount of received light. The connector includes a connection line, a first connection switch, a first control circuit, a second connection switch, and a second control circuit. The converter is coupled to the first signal line and the second signal line. The converter performs AD conversion on the basis of each of the first pixel voltage and the second pixel voltage.