Mixed-Size Counter Pixels for Photoelectric Conversion Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The enhancement of photoelectric conversion device function is hindered by the need to increase circuit size or layout area to accommodate signal processing within pixels, which restricts device miniaturization and image resolution.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a photoelectric conversion device with a mix of first and second pixels, where the second pixels have a smaller signal generation unit with a lower upper limit value, allowing for enhanced functionality without increasing pixel circuit size by using a smaller counter circuit and operational circuits in specific regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If signal processing circuits are added inside a pixel to enhance device function, then the functionality is improved, but the pixel circuit size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pixel array into multiple regions with different signal upper limit values. Some pixels are configured to output signals with higher upper limits while others have lower upper limits, allowing different functional zones within the same device without requiring larger individual pixel circuits
Solution Approach 2:
Different pixels are assigned different signal upper limit characteristics based on their specific functional requirements. This allows each pixel to be optimized for its particular role (e.g., high dynamic range vs. high precision) without requiring all pixels to have the same large circuit size
2Extent of automation
If the pixel circuit size is increased to add signal processing capabilities, then the signal processing capability is improved, but the chip area increases and the number of effective pixels decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal pixel circuit design that can operate in multiple modes by configuring different signal upper limit values. The same basic pixel structure can serve different functions (imaging, depth mapping, gesture recognition) depending on the signal upper limit configuration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function
3Measurement precision
If the pixel circuit size is increased to improve image definition, then the image quality is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from improving image definition through horizontal expansion of pixel circuit size to vertical expansion by adding multiple functional layers. Different signal upper limit configurations enable the same physical pixel area to serve multiple imaging dimensions (standard imaging, depth, gesture) simultaneously
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 enables the enhancement of photoelectric conversion device functionality without expanding the pixel circuit size, allowing for reduced chip area and increased effective pixels or added circuits, thereby improving performance while maintaining compactness.
Implementation Method 1
a light receiving unit that outputs a pulse in response to incidence of a photon
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment includes a plurality of pixels each including a light receiving unit that outputs a pulse in response to incidence of a photon, and a signal generation unit that generates a signal in accordance with the number of pulses output from the light receiving unit, wherein the plurality of pixels includes a first pixel in which an upper limit value of a signal generated by the signal generation unit is a first value and a second pixel in which an upper limit value of a signal generated by the signal generation unit is a second value that is smaller than the first value.