Pixel Sensing Circuit Shot Noise Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional X-Ray imaging technologies, particularly analog signal imaging, suffer from low resolution and poor image quality, which is addressed by the development of X-Ray Digital Radiography (DR) using X-Ray Flat Panel Detectors. However, these detectors face challenges in reducing shot noises and improving signal-to-noise ratios.

Innovation Solution

A pixel sensing circuit comprising a signal generation sub-circuit, a reset sub-circuit, an amplification sub-circuit, and a read sub-circuit, where the reset and amplification sub-circuits are connected to different power supply lines, allowing for distinct power signals to be provided, reducing shot noises and enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio by controlling the timing of these signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If traditional analog signal imaging is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and image quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit structureVSAvoidimage resolution
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The pixel sensing circuit is divided into four independent sub-circuits: signal generation sub-circuit, reset sub-circuit, amplification sub-circuit, and read sub-circuit. Each sub-circuit performs a specific function and can be independently optimized, allowing complex signal processing to be achieved through modular components rather than a monolithic complex circuit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate signal processing stages between light detection and final readout. The signal generation sub-circuit converts light signals to electrical signals, the amplification sub-circuit boosts the signal, and the read sub-circuit outputs the processed signal. These intermediary stages improve measurement precision without requiring the entire system to be complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If separate power supply lines for reset and amplification sub-circuits are used, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal-to-noise ratioVSAvoidpower supply structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply system is segmented into at least two separate power supply lines: a first power supply line connected to the reset sub-circuit and a second power supply line connected to the amplification sub-circuit. This segmentation allows independent control of power signals, reducing electrical interference and improving signal-to-noise ratio.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent controls the timing and voltage parameters of power signals provided to different sub-circuits. By adjusting the duration, voltage level, and timing of power signals on separate power supply lines, the system optimizes signal-to-noise ratio without requiring fundamentally complex power supply architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If signal amplification is increased, then image quality is improved, but shot noises increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal strengthVSAvoidshot noises
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The reset sub-circuit performs preliminary action by resetting the pixel before signal integration and providing a stable baseline signal. This preliminary resetting reduces variability and shot noises in the subsequent amplification process, allowing signal amplification to be performed on a more stable signal with fewer noises.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an amplification sub-circuit as an intermediary stage between signal generation and readout. This dedicated amplification stage allows controlled signal boosting with optimized noise characteristics, separating the amplification function from other circuit operations to minimize shot noise generation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The solution effectively reduces shot noises and improves the signal-to-noise ratio, leading to enhanced image quality in X-Ray imaging technologies.

Implementation Method 1

the signal generation sub-circuit is connected to a bias signal line and the first node, and is configured to detect a light signal and convert the detected light signal into an electrical signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11822024B2Pixel sensing circuit, driving method thereof, detection panel, and electronic device
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 BEIJING BOE SENSOR TECH CO LTD
  • US11822024B2 patent drawing
  • US11822024B2 patent drawing
  • US11822024B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a pixel sensing circuit, including a signal generation sub-circuit, a reset sub-circuit, an amplification sub-circuit, and a read sub-circuit. The reset sub-circuit is configured to provide a signal of a first power supply line to a first node under control of a reset signal line. The signal generation sub-circuit is configured to detect a light signal and convert the detected light signal into an electrical signal. The amplification sub-circuit is configured to provide an amplified electrical signal to a second node according to a signal provided by a second power supply line and under control of the first node. The read sub-circuit is configured to output the amplified electrical signal to a signal read line under control of a scan signal line.