Photoelectric Conversion Apparatus Input Node Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photoelectric conversion apparatuses, such as image capturing devices, experience differences in signal accuracy between second signals from first and second pixels due to varying voltage conditions during signal output operations, leading to errors like transverse streaks in images.
Innovation Solution
A photoelectric conversion apparatus with a control unit that manages the voltage of an input node, changing it from a predetermined voltage to a first voltage for the first signal and then to a second voltage for the second signal, and further adjusts the voltage back to the predetermined state during a specific time period, ensuring consistent signal accuracy across pixel operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the signal line voltage is set to correspond to the first signal before the first pixel outputs the second signal, then the first signal can be accurately processed, but the voltage level is inconsistent when the second pixel outputs the second signal, causing noise-level voltage differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the signal line voltage time-dependent and adaptive. The voltage is dynamically adjusted based on which pixel type is currently outputting signals: set to a first voltage level when first pixels output first signals, and a second voltage level when second pixels output second signals. This dynamic voltage adjustment ensures that the processing unit always operates at the appropriate voltage level for the current signal type, resolving the contradiction between maintaining signal accuracy and ensuring voltage consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter of the signal line based on the operating mode. A control unit monitors whether first pixels or second pixels are currently active and adjusts the signal line voltage accordingly. When first pixels are active, the voltage is set to a first level; when second pixels are active, it is set to a second level. This parameter change approach allows the system to maintain optimal signal accuracy for different pixel types while ensuring voltage consistency within each operating mode.
2Measurement precision
If different voltage levels are used for first signal and second signal processing, then each signal type can be optimized, but the voltage transition between signal types causes timing complexity and potential signal errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting the signal line voltage to the appropriate level before each pixel type outputs its signal. The control unit anticipates the signal output and adjusts the voltage in advance, ensuring that the processing unit is ready to receive and process the signal at the correct voltage level without waiting for voltage transitions during signal output. This eliminates timing conflicts and ensures smooth voltage transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the control unit that monitors the output state of different pixel types and adjusts the signal line voltage accordingly. The control unit receives feedback about which pixels are currently outputting signals and dynamically adjusts the voltage level to match the required signal type, ensuring continuous optimal operation without timing errors.
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 signal accuracy differences between second signals from different pixels, minimizing errors like transverse streaks and enhancing image quality by maintaining consistent voltage conditions during signal reading operations.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of photoelectric conversion portions each configured to generate an electric charge based on incident light
Data Source
AI summary
A photoelectric conversion apparatus includes a control unit configured to change a voltage of an input node from a first voltage toward a predetermined voltage during a predetermined time period after the voltage of the input node changes to the first voltage and before the voltage of the input node changes to a second voltage. A method of driving the photoelectric conversion apparatus includes controlling changing of the voltage of the input node from the first voltage toward the predetermined voltage during the predetermined time period.


