Switchable ADC Converter Array for Multi-Resolution Photodiodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of detectors and data acquisition systems (DAS) on a chip for 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.
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 applies universality by designing a single ADC chip that can function for both normal resolution and high-definition resolution modes. The chip includes a converter array with multiple sets of analog-digital converters and a switch array that can be configured to process signals from different numbers of photodiodes, allowing the same chip to serve multiple resolution requirements without needing separate dedicated chips for each mode.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate chips are produced for normal and high-definition resolutions, then each chip is optimized for its specific resolution, but device complexity increases due to multiple chip types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating a switch array that can dynamically reconfigure the connection between photodiodes and analog-digital converters based on the desired resolution mode. This dynamic switching capability allows a single static chip design to adapt its functionality for different resolution requirements, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated chip designs while maintaining optimized performance for each mode.
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.