Pixel Array Control Line Sharing for Mixed Main and Sub-Pixels
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Solution Overview
Problem
In a pixel array, mixing main and sub-pixels requires independent exposure and read timing for sub-pixels, leading to increased control lines and wiring defects, complicating miniaturization and configuration.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device with a matrix arrangement of pixels, using a control line group for main pixels and fewer control lines for sub-pixels, allowing independent control and reducing the number of control lines needed in each row.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If main pixels and sub-pixels are mixed in a pixel row with independent control, then each pixel can be exposed and read at independent timings, but the number of control lines increases causing wiring defects and difficulty in miniaturization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of main pixels and sub-pixels by having both pixel types share common control lines (reset line, transfer line, selection line). This allows independent exposure and read timing while reducing the total number of control lines, as sub-pixels use a subset of the control lines required for main pixels rather than having completely separate control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The control lines are designed with universal functionality to serve both main pixels and sub-pixels. The same control lines can control different pixel types at different timing, making the control system multi-functional and adaptable to different pixel configurations without requiring dedicated control lines for each pixel type.
2Ease of operation
If more control lines are added for independent pixel control, then independent timing control is achieved, but wiring defects increase and miniaturization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control line structures and having sub-pixels share the control lines of main pixels, the patent reduces the total number of control lines required. This merging approach directly reduces wiring density and the associated wiring defects while maintaining the capability for independent timing control through selective activation of pixels based on their type.
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 simplifies the pixel array configuration, reduces wiring defects, and facilitates miniaturization by minimizing the number of control lines required, improving the yield and functionality of mixed-function pixels.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pixels each including a photoelectric conversion element and arranged in an array of matrix
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device that includes a plurality of pixels each including a photoelectric conversion element and arranged in an array of matrix, a control line group including a plurality of control lines for controlling each of pixels aligned in a row direction, each arranged in each of rows of the array, and a plurality of reading lines (VSL) arranged in each of columns for transferring a pixel signal read from each of pixels aligned in a column direction of the array, wherein the plurality of pixels includes a first pixel controlled by a control signal supplied from a first control line group including control lines in a first number among a plurality of control lines included in the control line group in each of pixels aligned in the row direction in at least one of rows of the array.