Switchable ADC Array for Multi-Resolution Photodiode Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of detectors and data acquisition systems (DAS) on a chip in X-ray CT apparatuses results in high performance but increased costs due to the need for separate chip production for different resolutions, such as normal and high-definition resolutions.
Innovation Solution
A converter array with a switch circuitry that allows a common ADC chip to be used across various resolutions by switching between analog-digital converters to process signals from photodiodes, reducing the need for multiple chip productions and lowering costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If detectors and DAS are integrated on a chip for high performance, then detection performance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to separate chip production for different resolutions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal ADC chip design that can process signals for multiple resolution modes (normal and high-definition) through a switch circuit. The switch circuit selectively connects photodiode signals to appropriate ADCs based on the desired resolution, allowing a single ADC chip to replace what would traditionally require separate chips for different resolutions. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling high performance across multiple modes while reducing manufacturing costs through a single chip design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic switch circuit that can reconfigure the connection between photodiodes and ADCs based on operational requirements. The switch dynamically selects which ADCs receive signals from which photodiodes, enabling the system to adapt between normal and high-definition resolution modes. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same hardware to perform multiple functions, resolving the contradiction between performance and manufacturing cost.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate chips are produced for different resolutions, then each chip is optimized for its specific resolution, but device complexity increases due to multiple chip types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a single universal ADC chip that handles multiple resolution modes through internal switch circuitry. Instead of producing separate optimized chips for normal and high-definition resolutions, the universal chip uses the switch to route signals appropriately, achieving resolution optimization without requiring multiple chip types. This reduces device complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize for different resolutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the ADC functionality into multiple ADC units within a single chip, with the switch circuit selectively activating appropriate segments based on resolution requirements. This internal segmentation allows the chip to behave as multiple specialized units when needed, while physically remaining a single integrated component, thus reducing the number of separate chips required.
3Productivity
If multiple ADCs are provided for high-definition mode, then signal processing capability is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dynamic switch circuit to selectively activate and connect to multiple ADCs within the chip based on operational mode. In high-definition mode, the switch dynamically connects multiple ADCs to process signals from corresponding photodiodes. In normal mode, fewer ADCs are activated. This dynamic activation provides high signal processing capability when needed while reducing the effective component count during normal operation, resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests multiple ADC units within a single ADC chip structure, with the switch circuit enabling selective activation of nested ADC units based on resolution requirements. This nested arrangement allows multiple processing units to coexist in a compact form factor, providing high signal processing capability without proportionally increasing the physical device complexity or component footprint.
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 the use of a common ADC chip for both normal and high-definition modes, reducing production costs while maintaining high performance, and allowing for efficient signal processing across different resolution settings.
Implementation Method 1
a photodiode, and an analog-digital converter. The detector cell corresponds to one pixel
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a converter array includes a first substrate, multiple sets of a plurality of analog-digital converters and a switch. The multiple sets are arranged on the first substrate in array. The switch is configured to switch a connection relationship between the plurality of analog-digital converters to process signals from photodiodes smaller in number than the analog-digital converters.