Imaging Device Pixel Electrode Configuration for Dynamic Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging devices face challenges in expanding dynamic range due to limitations in sensitivity variation between high-sensitivity and low-sensitivity pixel cells, leading to reduced image quality and increased noise.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device incorporates electrically separated second and fourth electrodes in high-sensitivity and low-sensitivity pixel cells, allowing for independent voltage control and reduced electrode capacity, enabling high-speed voltage variation and improved sensitivity adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If high-sensitivity pixel cells and low-sensitivity pixel cells are disposed in an imaging region to expand dynamic range, then dynamic range is expanded, but sensitivity variation between pixel cells is limited leading to reduced image quality and increased noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the electrode capacity in different pixel cells through different electrode configurations. High-sensitivity pixel cells have electrode structures with larger capacity (e.g., larger area electrodes), while low-sensitivity pixel cells have electrode structures with smaller capacity. This direct manipulation of electrode capacity parameters enables precise control over pixel sensitivity, allowing the imaging device to expand dynamic range while maintaining high image quality without the limitations of conventional sensitivity variation methods.
2Ease of operation
If electrode capacity is increased to improve sensitivity control, then sensitivity adjustment is improved, but voltage variation speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different electrode configurations tailored to specific pixel cell requirements. Instead of using a uniform electrode structure across all pixels, the invention implements localized electrode designs where high-sensitivity pixel cells have electrodes with larger area and capacity, while low-sensitivity pixel cells have electrodes with smaller area and capacity. This local differentiation enables each pixel type to have optimized electrode capacity matched to its sensitivity requirements, achieving both improved sensitivity control and maintained voltage variation speed through appropriate local design choices.
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 dynamic range by optimizing sensitivity variation between pixel cells, reducing noise, and suppressing color mixing and resolution reduction, resulting in improved image quality and wide dynamic range shooting capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a first photoelectric conversion film having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes: a first pixel cell including a first photoelectric conversion film having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a first electrode on the first surface, a second electrode on the first surface, surrounding the first electrode, and a first counter electrode on the second surface, facing the first electrode and the second electrode; and a second pixel cell including a second photoelectric conversion film having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface, a third electrode on the third surface, a fourth electrode on the third surface, surrounding the third electrode, and a second counter electrode on the fourth surface, facing the third electrode and the fourth electrode, wherein the second electrode and the fourth electrode are electrically separated from each other.