Solid-State Imaging Device Drive Control Unit for Pixel Rows
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Solution Overview
Problem
In solid-state imaging devices, the vertical selection circuits for multiple pixel rows perform similar operations simultaneously, leading to inefficiencies and reduced theoretical yields of chips.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device with a drive control unit that operates on sets of shared pixel rows, allowing simultaneous driving of pixels with reduced control lines and circuit size, and incorporating a selection circuit to determine signal output, thereby increasing chip yield and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vertical selection circuits are provided for each pixel row to simultaneously drive multiple pixel rows, then pixel reading flexibility is improved, but device complexity and circuit area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drive control unit is designed to serve multiple pixel rows simultaneously through a single unified circuit, rather than having separate circuits for each row. This multi-functional approach allows the same drive control unit to control different sets of pixel rows at different times, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to simultaneously drive multiple rows for flexible pixel reading
2Productivity
If vertical selection circuits are provided for each pixel row to simultaneously drive multiple pixel rows, then simultaneous driving capability is improved, but chip area increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple vertical selection circuits that would traditionally be required for different pixel rows are merged into a single drive control unit. This unified circuit can be configured to control different sets of pixel rows, combining the functionality of multiple separate circuits into one compact unit, thereby reducing the total chip area occupied by vertical selection circuits while maintaining the capability to simultaneously drive multiple pixel rows
3Measurement precision
If separate vertical selection circuits are provided for each pixel row, then control precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having dedicated vertical selection circuits for each pixel row that would consume continuous power, a single multi-functional drive control unit is implemented. This unit can be activated only when needed to control specific pixel rows, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining precise control capability when the circuit is active
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to a solid-state imaging device and an electronic apparatus that can increase the theoretical yield of a chip. A pixel array is formed with pixels arranged in a matrix. A drive control unit is provided for each set of pixel rows in the pixel array. The drive control unit operates to simultaneously drive the pixels included in the set of pixel rows. The present technology can be applied to a CMOS image sensor including A/D converter circuits for each column in a pixel array.