18354057. PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION APPARATUS simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)

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PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION APPARATUS

Organization Name

CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA

Inventor(s)

MAHITO Shinohara of Tokyo (JP)

PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18354057 titled 'PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION APPARATUS

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a photoelectric conversion apparatus that consists of multiple pixels. Each pixel includes an avalanche photodiode, two switch elements, a capacitive element, and a detection circuit. The apparatus detects the occurrence of avalanche breakdown in the photodiode by monitoring the potential change of a specific node.

  • The avalanche photodiode is positioned between two potential supply lines.
  • Two switch elements control the flow of current between the potential supply lines and the photodiode.
  • A capacitive element connects the two switch elements and acts as a storage element for charge.
  • The detection circuit analyzes the potential change of a specific node to detect avalanche breakdown in the photodiode.

Potential applications of this technology:

  • High-resolution imaging: The apparatus can be used in cameras or imaging devices to capture detailed images with improved sensitivity.
  • Scientific research: It can be utilized in scientific experiments that require precise detection of light or radiation.
  • Security systems: The technology can be integrated into surveillance cameras or sensors to enhance their sensitivity and accuracy.

Problems solved by this technology:

  • Improved sensitivity: The apparatus allows for the detection of low-intensity light or radiation by utilizing avalanche breakdown in the photodiode.
  • Enhanced signal-to-noise ratio: The detection circuit can accurately distinguish between signal and noise, resulting in clearer and more reliable measurements.
  • Compact design: The arrangement of components in each pixel allows for a compact and efficient photoelectric conversion apparatus.

Benefits of this technology:

  • Higher image quality: The improved sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio lead to sharper and more detailed images.
  • Increased detection accuracy: The detection circuit ensures accurate detection of avalanche breakdown, reducing false positives or negatives.
  • Compact and versatile: The apparatus can be integrated into various devices due to its compact design, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.


Original Abstract Submitted

A photoelectric conversion apparatus in which a plurality of pixels are arranged is provided. Each of the plurality of pixels includes an avalanche photodiode arranged between a first potential supply line and a second potential supply line, a first switch element arranged between the first potential supply line and the avalanche photodiode, a second switch element arranged between the first switch element and the avalanche photodiode, a capacitive element including a first terminal and a second terminal connected to a first node that connects the first switch element and the second switch element, and a detection circuit configured to detect occurrence of avalanche breakdown of the avalanche photodiode in accordance with a change of a potential of a second node that connects the second switch element and the avalanche photodiode.

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