Photodetection Pixel Converter With Buffer Circuit for Noise Suppression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current photodetection devices face challenges in enhancing image quality, particularly in effectively converting pixel signals into digital codes to achieve high image resolution and reduce noise interference.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves a photodetection device comprising a first pixel, a reference signal generator, and a converter with a buffer circuit and comparison circuit, which generates a digital code by comparing the pixel signal with a reference signal, utilizing transistors and capacitors to perform AD conversion and suppress noise.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a pixel generates a pixel signal and an AD conversion circuit converts it into a digital code, then image data can be obtained, but noise interference occurs and image quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidnoise interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A buffer circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the pixel and the AD conversion circuit. This buffer circuit includes a transistor and capacitor that work together to suppress noise in the pixel signal before it reaches the AD conversion circuit, thereby improving image quality without sacrificing conversion functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The noise suppression function is extracted from the main signal processing path and implemented separately through the buffer circuit. By isolating the noise filtering operation in a dedicated buffer stage, the main AD conversion circuit can focus on accurate digital code generation while the buffer handles noise interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional AD conversion is performed without additional buffer circuits, then device complexity is low, but noise suppression capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenoise suppressionVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The buffer circuit is merged with the AD conversion circuit structure, sharing common components and signal paths where possible. The buffer's transistor and capacitor are integrated into the overall circuit architecture, providing noise suppression while minimizing additional complexity through shared resources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer circuit is designed to automatically suppress noise in the pixel signal without requiring external control or additional processing steps. The transistor and capacitor in the buffer circuit self-regulate to filter noise, providing passive noise suppression that adds minimal operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 enhances image quality by reducing noise interference and improving the accuracy of digital code generation, leading to better image resolution and reduced streaking in captured images.

Implementation Method 1

a first pixel... generates a first pixel signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11902686B2Photodetection device and electronic apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.02.13 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP
  • US11902686B2 patent drawing
  • US11902686B2 patent drawing
  • US11902686B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A photodetection device according to the present disclosure includes: a first pixel that is configured to generate a first pixel signal; a reference signal generator that is configured to generate a reference signal; and a first converter that includes a first buffer circuit and a first comparison circuit and is configured to convert the first pixel signal into a digital code, the first buffer circuit configured to output a first signal corresponding to the reference signal from an output terminal, and the first comparison circuit configured to perform a comparison operation on the basis of the first pixel signal and the first signal.