18338478. PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)

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PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE

Organization Name

CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA

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.