Photoelectric Conversion Element Parallel-Serial Signal Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photoelectric conversion elements and image reading devices face limitations in reducing the transmission distance of output image data due to layout constraints, leading to potential deterioration in signal quality and increased electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by long cable lengths for high-speed signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
A photoelectric conversion element with aligned photodetectors and A/D converters that parallel-serially convert pixel signals, utilizing a retaining unit to sequence and transfer the signals in a linear fashion, reducing the transmission distance while maintaining processing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If image data is transmitted over a long distance to a subsequent stage device, then layout constraints are satisfied, but signal quality deteriorates and electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a linear data transmission path to a two-dimensional memory array structure. Pixel data is stored in a 2D array where rows and columns can be selectively read out, allowing the output unit to be positioned at any edge of the array rather than requiring a specific linear endpoint. This spatial reorganization in multiple dimensions enables short transmission distances while satisfying various layout constraints.
2Productivity
If multiple data lines are used to read division pixel-data groups in parallel, then processing efficiency is improved, but wiring capacity becomes large and drive capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel array into multiple independently controllable regions (first pixel array and second pixel array) with distinct read-out paths. Each region can be read out through separate transfer units and memory structures, allowing parallel processing of different pixel groups without requiring a single large-scale wiring system. This segmentation enables efficient parallel processing while controlling wiring complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the two-dimensional structure of the pixel array to enable parallel read-out through different dimensions. Rows can be read horizontally while columns can be read vertically, or different regions can be accessed simultaneously through different edges of the array. This multi-dimensional access strategy achieves high processing efficiency without proportionally increasing wiring capacity, as the same physical infrastructure supports multiple parallel data streams.
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 effectively shortens the transmission distance of image data, enhancing processing speed and reducing EMI without compromising the efficiency of read data processing at subsequent stages.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of photodetectors that are aligned in one direction, and that photoelectric convert incident light to output a pixel signal
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple photodetectors that photoelectric convert incident light to output a pixel signal; multiple analog/digital (A/D) convertors that A/D convert a plurality of pixel signals that are output by the photodetectors in parallel in a plurality of systems; a retaining unit that retains the pixel signals A/D converted in parallel by the A/D convertors in an aligned manner in one direction, to be arranged in reading order from a first pixel signal to a final pixel signal; and multiple transfer units that transfer the pixel signals arranged and retained by the retaining unit, sequentially from the first pixel signal from a first-pixel-signal retaining position toward a final-pixel signal retaining position of the retaining unit are included.