Photoelectric Conversion Device Scanning for Dynamic Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The dynamic resolution of photoelectric conversion devices is limited due to the long time required for reading one row, which affects the efficiency of signal processing.
Innovation Solution
A photoelectric conversion device is designed with a pixel array and a scanning circuit that performs scanning for outputting optical signals and reset signals in different periods, allowing for improved dynamic resolution by shortening the readout time for one row.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reset levels are sampled a plurality of times, then measurement precision is improved, but reading time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reading process into multiple independent scans within one frame period. Different scans read different signals (optical signal in first scan, reset signals in second and third scans) from the same pixel array, allowing parallel processing of multiple signals without extending the overall frame period. This segmentation enables multiple measurements to be performed simultaneously in different time slots rather than sequentially, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and reading time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by performing multiple scanning operations within a single frame period. The scanning circuit executes first, second, and third scans at different time points within the same frame period, periodically reading optical signals and reset signals. This periodic scanning approach allows multiple measurements to be completed within the constrained frame period, improving measurement precision without increasing the overall reading time.
2Productivity
If multiple scans are performed within one frame period, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning circuit is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple types of scanning operations (first scan for optical signal, second scan for first reset signal, third scan for second reset signal) using the same hardware infrastructure. This universal scanning circuit can be controlled to execute different scanning tasks within one frame period, improving productivity without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each scanning function, thus limiting the increase in device complexity.
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
The solution enhances dynamic resolution, reducing object blur and improving the overall performance of the photoelectric conversion device by optimizing the timing of signal output and reset signal acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
each including a photoelectric conversion unit, and each configured to output a signal corresponding to incident light by photoelectric conversion
Data Source
AI summary
A photoelectric conversion device including pixels arranged to form rows, a scanning circuit that performs scanning for sequentially outputting a signal from the pixel on a row basis, and a processing circuit that processes a signal output from the pixel. The processing circuit corrects, based on a first reset signal and a second reset signal based on a reset state of the pixel, an optical signal based on incident light. The scanning circuit performs scanning for outputting the optical signal and the first reset signal from the pixel by scans performed in different periods. The scanning circuit performs scanning for outputting the optical signal and the second reset signal from the pixel by a scan. The first reset signal, the second reset signal, and the optical signal are output from the pixel in a frame period in which signals to be used for generating a frame is output.