Pixel array capable of performing pipelined global shutter operation including a first and second buffer amplifier
US8569671B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 23, 2009 |
| Grant date | Oct 29, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N25/78
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A pixel comprises a photo-sensitive element for generating charges in response to incident radiation and a sense node. A transfer gate is positioned between the photo-sensitive element and the sense node for controlling transfer of charges to the sense node. A reset switch is connected to the sense node for resetting the sense node to a predetermined voltage. A first buffer amplifier has an input connected to the sense node. A sample stage is connected to the output of the first buffer amplifier and is operable to sample a value of the sense node. A second buffer amplifier has an input connected to the sample stage. Control circuitry operates the reset switch and causes the sample stage to sample the sense node while the photo-sensitive element is being exposed to radiation. An array of pixels is synchronously exposed to radiation. Sampled values for a first exposure period can be read while the photo-sensitive element is exposed for a second exposure period.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.