Imaging Apparatus Switch Control for Signal Reading Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses face a decrease in operation speed due to increased capacitance in the reading path, which affects the efficiency of signal reading from pixels in solid-state imaging systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a switch control mechanism between signal lines and comparators, allowing for reduced capacitance by alternating the conduction states of switches and using bypass lines to minimize capacitance addition during signal reading, thereby maintaining operation speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switches are provided between vertical signal lines to enable signal reading from multiple pixels, then signal reading capability is improved, but capacitance of the reading path increases and operation speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the switch conduction state changeable over time. The first switch alternates between conductive and non-conductive states at different time points, allowing the system to dynamically switch between connecting multiple vertical signal lines (improving signal reading capability) and isolating them (reducing capacitance and maintaining operation speed). This temporal dynamic control resolves the contradiction between adaptability and speed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two vertical signal lines are connected together to read signals, then signal reading flexibility is improved, but capacitance increases and operation speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through the alternating conduction and non-conduction states of the first switch at different time points. During periods when the switch is conductive, multiple vertical signal lines are connected for flexible signal reading. During periods when the switch is non-conductive, the lines are isolated to reduce capacitance. This periodic switching enables the system to achieve both signal reading flexibility and maintained operation speed.
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes a plurality of pixels, a plurality of signal lines, and a plurality of comparators. The imaging apparatus further includes a first switch and a second switch. The first switch includes a first terminal configured to receive signal from one of the signal lines is input, and a second terminal connected to an input node of one of the comparators. The second switch includes a first terminal connected to the input node of the one comparator, and a second terminal to which a signal from another one of the signal lines is input.