Sensing Apparatus with Segmented Pixel Groups for High Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flat-plate sensing unit arrays face challenges in achieving high resolution while maintaining sensitivity due to reduced pixel area and increased noise from RC coupling, which affects the strength of electric signals generated from low incident energy.
Innovation Solution
The sensing apparatus employs a configuration with multiple scan lines, readout lines, and sensing devices, where each sensing device includes a sensing unit, storage unit, amplification unit, and reset unit, allowing for sequential enabling and resetting using scan signals and reference signals, thereby enhancing signal gain and reducing noise without additional bias or reset lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the pixel area is reduced to improve resolution, then the resolution is improved, but the sensitivity of the sensor is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel is divided into multiple sensing units, each with its own conversion layer. This segmentation allows each sensing unit to maintain adequate sensitivity while the overall array achieves high resolution through the combined output of multiple units per pixel region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where sensing units are embedded within pixels, and multiple pixels are organized into pixel groups. Each sensing unit contains conversion layers nested within the pixel structure, allowing hierarchical organization that preserves sensitivity at the sensing unit level while achieving high resolution at the pixel array level.
2Measurement precision
If the pixel area is reduced to improve resolution, then the resolution is improved, but the strength of the electric signal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensing units within a pixel group share common conversion layers and readout circuitry. This merging allows the electric signals from multiple sensing units to be combined and amplified together, maintaining strong signal strength even when individual sensing units are small in area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical dimensionality by stacking multiple conversion layers above the sensing units. This three-dimensional arrangement allows multiple sensing operations to occur simultaneously in different vertical layers, increasing the total signal output without increasing the horizontal pixel area.
3Area of stationary object
If large area sensing is implemented, then the sensing area is increased, but noise is generated due to resistance and capacitance coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The large sensing array is segmented into multiple pixel groups, with each group containing multiple pixels that are independently reset. This segmentation allows for localized reset operations that reduce RC coupling noise within each segment while maintaining the overall large sensing area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a preliminary reset operation using scan lines before readout operations. By pre-charging and resetting the sensing units through scan lines, the system eliminates accumulated charge and reduces noise from RC coupling before the actual sensing and readout processes begin.
4Device complexity
If a single thin film transistor is used per pixel for switch operations, then the device structure is simplified, but signal gain cannot be achieved to mitigate noise
Solution Approach 1:
The scan lines serve multiple functions: they act as gate lines for switching, as reset lines for clearing accumulated charge, and as signal transmission lines. This multi-functionality allows the simplified single-TFT structure to achieve signal gain through the dual role of scan lines in both switching and resetting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the reset function into the scan line operation by using the same scan lines to both switch and reset the sensing units. This combining of functions eliminates the need for separate reset lines while still achieving noise mitigation through proper reset timing and voltage control.
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 improves sensitivity and reduces noise, allowing for effective detection of low-energy incidents and dynamic image capture with increased fill factor and reduced noise influence.
Implementation Method 1
low incident energy may result in a low strength of an electric signal converted from the energy by the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing apparatus including a first scan line, a second scan line, a readout line, a first sensing device and a second sensing device is provided. The first sensing device is coupled to the first scan line and the readout line, and senses a first energy, and outputs a first readout signal corresponding to the first energy to the readout line in response to a first scan signal on the first scan line. The first sensing device is reset in response to the first scan signal and a reference signal on the readout line. The first sensing device includes a first reset unit configured for resetting the first sensing device, where a first terminal of the first reset unit is coupled to the first scan line, and a control terminal of the first reset unit is coupled to the readout line. A driving method thereof is also provided.