Mixed-Size SiPM Cell Layout for Wide Dynamic Range Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid-state, single-photon detectors face limitations in detecting light over a wide dynamic range, as existing devices like SiPMs can become saturated when detecting a large number of photons, leading to reduced accuracy and reliability.
Innovation Solution
The integration of both large-area and small-area photodetector cells on a substrate, with read out circuitry configured to provide a high dynamic range output, where large-area cells offer higher sensitivity and small-area cells enhance dynamic range and resistance to blooming, allowing for improved detection capabilities across varying light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-photon detector uses a uniform array of photodetector cells, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the dynamic range is limited and saturation occurs at high photon fluxes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different regions within the photodetector array with distinct cell sizes. Large-area cells are positioned in regions expecting higher photon flux to provide resistance to blooming, while small-area cells are placed in regions expecting lower photon flux to maintain high sensitivity. This spatial variation in cell properties allows the detector to handle a wide dynamic range without saturation, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and extended dynamic range.
2Measurement precision
If large-area photodetector cells are used, then sensitivity at low photon fluxes is improved, but resistance to blooming at high photon fluxes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by strategically distributing large-area and small-area cells across the detector array based on expected photon flux patterns. Large-area cells provide enhanced sensitivity in low-flux regions, while small-area cells provide blooming resistance in high-flux regions. This localized optimization resolves the contradiction between sensitivity and blooming resistance by allowing each cell type to excel in its designated operational regime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the photodetector array into functionally distinct segments based on cell area. The array is segmented into large-area cells for high-sensitivity detection and small-area cells for high dynamic range detection. This segmentation allows the detector to simultaneously achieve both high sensitivity and blooming resistance across different spatial regions, resolving the trade-off between these competing requirements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If small-area photodetector cells are used, then resistance to blooming is improved, but sensitivity at low photon fluxes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning small-area cells in specific regions of the detector array where high photon flux is expected, while placing large-area cells in regions where low photon flux is expected. This spatial differentiation allows small-area cells to provide blooming resistance where needed without compromising overall sensitivity, as large-area cells compensate in low-flux regions.
4Reliability
If the photodetector array is designed for high dynamic range, then saturation is reduced, but manufacturing complexity and device structure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the detector into multiple regions with different cell size characteristics. This segmentation approach to achieving high dynamic range is more manufacturable than completely redesigning the detector architecture, as it can be implemented by varying cell dimensions within existing fabrication processes while maintaining overall array structure and readout circuitry compatibility.
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 enables reliable light detection over a wider dynamic range, providing higher sensitivity at low photon fluxes and improved resistance to blooming, thus enhancing the overall performance of the detector system.
Implementation Method 1
each cell could include a single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) operating in Geiger mode
Implementation Method 2
single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) operating in Geiger mode
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to devices, light detection and ranging (lidar) systems, and vehicles involving solid-state, single photon detectors. An example device includes a substrate defining a primary plane and a plurality of photodetector cells disposed along the primary plane. The plurality of photodetector cells includes at least one large-area cell and at least one small-area cell. The large-area cell has a first area and the small-area cell has a second area and the first area is greater than the second area. The device also includes read out circuitry coupled to the plurality of photodetector cells. The read out circuitry is configured to provide an output signal based on incident light detected by the plurality of photodetector cells.