18292726. SOLID-STATE IMAGING ELEMENT simplified abstract (SONY SEMICONDUCTOR SOLUTIONS CORPORATION)

SOLID-STATE IMAGING ELEMENT

Organization Name

SONY SEMICONDUCTOR SOLUTIONS CORPORATION

Inventor(s)

HIDEKI Naganuma of KANAGAWA (JP)

TAKUYA Toyofuku of KANAGAWA (JP)

SOLID-STATE IMAGING ELEMENT - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18292726 titled 'SOLID-STATE IMAGING ELEMENT

The patent application aims to enhance image quality in solid-state imaging elements utilizing differential amplification.

• Reference pixels have reference-side amplifier transistors providing reference current based on a predetermined potential.
• Readout pixel circuits have readout-side amplifier transistors supplying signal current based on the difference between gate potential and reference potential.
• A potential difference generation unit includes source follower transistors controlling the gate-drain potential difference in readout pixel circuits.

Potential Applications: - This technology can be applied in digital cameras, smartphones, and other imaging devices to improve image quality. - Medical imaging equipment can benefit from enhanced image quality for accurate diagnostics.

Problems Solved: - Addresses issues related to image noise and distortion in solid-state imaging elements. - Improves the overall performance and reliability of imaging devices.

Benefits: - Enhanced image quality leads to sharper and clearer images. - Increased accuracy in capturing details and colors in images. - Improved signal-to-noise ratio for better overall image performance.

Commercial Applications: Title: "Enhancing Image Quality in Solid-State Imaging Elements" This technology can be utilized in the consumer electronics industry for manufacturing high-quality cameras and imaging devices, catering to a wide range of users. The market implications include increased demand for advanced imaging solutions in various sectors such as healthcare, security, and entertainment.

Prior Art: Readers can explore prior patents related to solid-state imaging elements, differential amplification, and image quality enhancement in the field of semiconductor devices and digital imaging technology.

Frequently Updated Research: Researchers are constantly working on improving image processing algorithms and sensor technologies to further enhance image quality in solid-state imaging elements. Stay updated on the latest advancements in this area for potential future applications.

Questions about Solid-State Imaging Elements: 1. How does differential amplification contribute to improving image quality in solid-state imaging elements?

  Differential amplification helps to reduce noise and enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in clearer and sharper images.

2. What are the key factors to consider when implementing differential amplification in solid-state imaging elements?

  Factors such as transistor characteristics, circuit design, and calibration processes play a crucial role in optimizing the performance of solid-state imaging elements with differential amplification.

Original Abstract Submitted

To improve the image quality in a solid-state imaging element that performs differential amplification. Each of a plurality of reference pixels is provided with a reference-side amplifier transistor that supplies a reference current according to a predetermined reference potential. Each of a plurality of readout pixel circuits is provided with a readout-side amplifier transistor that supplies from a drain to a source a signal current according to a difference between a potential of a gate and the reference potential. Further, in a potential difference generation unit, a plurality of source follower transistors are arranged for each of columns of the readout pixel circuits, each source follower transistor controlling a potential difference between the gate and the drain to a predetermined value when the potential of the gate and the reference potential are initialized.