18338478. PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
MAHITO Shinohara of Tokyo (JP)
PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18338478 titled 'PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE
Simplified Explanation
The patent application describes a photoelectric conversion device that includes pixels arranged in a semiconductor layer with two main surfaces. Each pixel consists of a first photodiode, a second photodiode, and a transfer portion.
- The first photodiode accumulates signal charges in a first region of a first conductivity type.
- The second photodiode is positioned between the first region and the second main surface, partially overlapping the first region. It also accumulates signal charges in a second region of the first conductivity type.
- A third region of a second conductivity type is located between the first and second regions of the photodiodes.
- A first electrode is placed on the first main surface, covering the first region.
- Signal charges accumulated in the second region are transferred to the first region through a transfer portion formed in the third region by controlling the potential of the first electrode.
Potential Applications
- Image sensors for digital cameras and smartphones
- Solar panels for renewable energy generation
- Medical imaging devices such as X-ray detectors
Problems Solved
- Improved photoelectric conversion efficiency
- Enhanced signal charge transfer between photodiodes
- Reduction of noise and signal loss
Benefits
- Higher quality images with improved dynamic range and low-light performance
- Increased energy conversion efficiency for solar panels
- Enhanced sensitivity and accuracy in medical imaging
Original Abstract Submitted
A photoelectric conversion device including pixels arranged in a semiconductor layer including first and second main surfaces is provided. Each of the pixels includes a first photodiode including a first region of a first conductivity type where signal charges are accumulated, a second photodiode arranged between the first region and the second main surface so as to at least partially overlap the first region, and including a second region of the first conductivity type where signal charges are accumulated, a third region of a second conductivity type arranged between the first and second region, and a first electrode arranged on the first main surface so as to cover the first region. Signal charges accumulated in the second region are transferred to the first region via a transfer portion formed in the third region by controlling a potential of the first electrode.
