Parallel Readout Architecture for X-ray Image Sensor Pixel Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray image sensors lack a parallel readout capability for pixel arrays, leading to inefficiencies in data processing and increased radiation exposure due to serial readout methods, which also result in potential data loss if pixels fail within a column.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for parallel readout in X-ray image sensors, involving a pixel array with amplifiers, comparators, and counters to convert and count electrical signals, connecting columns via bus lines for simultaneous row selection and data transmission, enabling high-speed parallel data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If serial readout method is used for pixel array data transmission, then device complexity is reduced, but processing time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple columns, each with its own dedicated readout circuit (amplifier, comparator, counter). This segmentation allows parallel processing of data from different columns simultaneously, dramatically increasing data processing speed while keeping each individual readout circuit relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The readout architecture transitions from a single-column serial readout to a multi-column parallel readout structure. By adding the column dimension to the readout process, multiple pixels can be read simultaneously across different columns, transforming the time-consuming serial operation into efficient parallel operation
2Loss of energy
If serial readout method is used for pixel array data transmission, then energy consumption is reduced, but radiation exposure increases due to longer processing time
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel readout architecture enables continuous and simultaneous data acquisition from multiple pixel columns. By maintaining active readout operations across all columns in parallel rather than sequentially, the system reduces the total time the sensor is exposed to radiation, thereby reducing harmful radiation exposure while the energy efficiency is maintained through optimized circuit design
3Device complexity
If serial readout method is used for pixel array data transmission, then device complexity is reduced, but data loss occurs when pixels fail within a column
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the pixel array into multiple independent columns with separate readout circuits, a failure in one column does not affect the readout of other columns. This segmentation isolates faults to specific columns only, preventing cascading failures and ensuring data integrity from healthy columns remains intact
Solution Approach 2:
Each column has its own dedicated readout circuit acting as an intermediary between the pixels in that column and the output. This intermediary structure ensures that if one column's readout circuit fails, it does not interfere with the data transmission from other columns, thereby protecting against data loss
4Productivity
If parallel readout architecture is implemented with multiple columns and readout circuits, then processing time is reduced and productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex readout task is segmented into multiple independent column-readout circuit units. Each unit handles a specific column independently, allowing parallel execution. This segmentation makes the overall complexity manageable by distributing it across identical, simpler modular units rather than requiring a single complex sequential processor
Solution Approach 2:
Each column readout circuit is designed with universal functionality to handle any column's data independently. The same amplifier, comparator, and counter circuitry is replicated across columns, allowing the system to process multiple columns simultaneously using identical functional blocks, thereby achieving parallel processing without proportionally increasing the complexity of each individual circuit
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 reduces processing time, minimizes radiation exposure by allowing real-time high-quality X-ray video display with reduced energy usage, and prevents data loss from failed pixels by enabling parallel data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
capturing an electrical signal at each of a plurality of pixels within the pixel array
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-implemented method for parallel readout for an X-ray image sensor module having a pixel array. Specifically, among other things, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-implemented infrastructure comprising: capturing an electrical signal at each of a plurality of pixels within the pixel array; converting each of the captured electrical signals into a respective voltage; comparing each of the respective voltages with a reference voltage to discriminate whether the electric signal from the sensor represents a photon detection; counting a photon detection for each of the plurality of pixels within the pixel array based upon an output of the comparator; connecting all pixels in each of the columns; and sequentially selecting said rows of pixels for readout over the column bus lines at a sensor output.