Pixel Matrix Fault Isolation via Programmable Bus Disconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices with matrices of electronic elements face challenges in reliably isolating faulty pixels, as faults can propagate and cause widespread matrix failures, and existing fault-location methods are costly, time-consuming, and not feasible for in-field repairs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of programmable means within each pixel to disconnect it from row and column buses, allowing for controlled isolation and identification of faulty blocks through a method of disconnecting and reconnecting blocks to pinpoint the faulty component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If programmable disconnection means are added to each pixel, then fault isolation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging device into independent pixel blocks, each with its own programmable disconnection means. This segmentation allows individual pixels to be isolated from row and column buses without affecting other pixels, enabling precise fault isolation while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces programmable disconnection means as intermediary components between pixels and the bus system. These intermediaries act as controllable switches that can disconnect faulty pixels from the row and column buses, preventing fault propagation while allowing healthy pixels to continue operating normally.
2Reliability
If laser fire is used to cut connections for fault isolation, then faulty pixels can be isolated, but additional cost and time are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates programmable disconnection means into each pixel during manufacturing, preparing the fault isolation capability in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming laser cutting operations later, as faults can be isolated electronically through programming rather than physical modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical laser cutting process with an electronic programming system. Instead of using laser fire to physically cut connections, the system uses programmable electronic switches to disconnect faulty pixels, substituting a mechanical process with an electronic one that is faster and more cost-effective.
3Reliability
If margins of safety are increased in component design, then reliability of individual components is improved, but the number of acceptable components per pixel is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fault isolation function from the component design margins and implements it as a separate programmable disconnection mechanism. This extraction allows components to be designed with standard margins while the added disconnection means provides the enhanced reliability, thereby maintaining component selection flexibility.
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 enables efficient isolation of faulty blocks, preventing fault propagation and simplifying the identification of defective pixels, thereby enhancing the reliability and maintainability of imaging devices.
Implementation Method 1
Each pixel comprises a photodetector A(i,j) and means M(i,j) for disconnecting the block A(i,j) from the various buses to which it is linked during its nominal operation
Implementation Method 2
use is often made of a radiation converter known as a scintillator, which converts incident radiation, for example an X-ray, into radiation in a band of wavelengths to which the photosensitive elements in the pixels are sensitive
Data Source
AI summary
Enhancement of the reliability of an imaging device comprising several pixels is provided, each of the pixels comprising several first blocks of electronic components organized as a matrix and joined by links to row buses and column buses of the matrix allowing the powering and control of each of the first blocks for its nominal operation. Each of the pixels moreover comprises, associated with the first block, programmable means for disconnection of the first block from the at least one of the buses. Locating of a fault in a device is also provided, the fault occurring in one of the first blocks and leading to a generalized fault in several first blocks.