{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854183","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854183","title":"Solid state imaging device, method of controlling solid state imaging device, and program for controlling solid state imaging device","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2017-01-03T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":15,"abstract":"A solid state imaging device includes: a pixel array unit that has a plurality of pixels 2-dimensionally arranged in a matrix and a plurality of signal lines arranged along a column direction; A/D conversion units that are provided corresponding to the respective signal lines and convert an analog signal output from a pixel through the signal line into a digital signal; and a switching unit that switches or converts the analog signal output through each signal line into a digital signal using any of an A/D conversion unit provided corresponding to the signal line through which the analog signal is transmitted, and an A/D conversion unit provided corresponding to a signal line other than the signal line through which the analog signal is transmitted."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device patent addresses the challenge of inefficient analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion in solid-state imaging devices. The core innovation is a switching unit that dynamically routes analog signals from pixels to different A/D conversion units. This approach optimizes the conversion process, reduces noise, and improves overall image quality. By allowing for flexible allocation of A/D conversion resources, this technology enables higher frame rates, improved low-light performance, and reduced power consumption. The business value lies in its potential to disrupt various industries, including medical imaging, surveillance, and consumer electronics. The market opportunity is significant, as the demand for higher quality images and more efficient imaging systems continues to grow. This innovation offers a competitive advantage by providing a more versatile and adaptable imaging solution. The key technical approach involves implementing a switching unit that can quickly and accurately route signals without introducing noise or distortion. The system's performance in real-world scenarios will need to be thoroughly tested and validated to ensure its widespread adoption. The potential ROI is high, as this technology can lead to smaller, more efficient cameras with better image quality.","layman_explanation":"The Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device patent addresses a critical bottleneck in modern imaging systems: the efficient conversion of analog signals from image sensors into digital data. This explanation breaks down the patent's core concepts and business implications for non-technical professionals.\n\n**1. What Problem Does This Solve?**\nDigital cameras and imaging devices rely on sensors to capture light and convert it into electrical signals. These signals are initially analog, meaning they vary continuously. To process and display these images, the analog signals must be converted into digital data. Existing systems often struggle to efficiently manage this conversion, leading to delays, noise, and reduced image quality, particularly in challenging conditions like low light or fast motion.\n\n**2. How Does It Work?**\nImagine a busy factory where each worker (analog signal) needs to have their work checked (converted to digital). Traditionally, each worker has their own dedicated checker. However, sometimes some workers are idle while others are overwhelmed. This patent introduces a smart manager (switching unit) that can redirect workers to different checkers based on workload. This dynamic routing ensures that all signals are processed efficiently, minimizing delays and maximizing image quality. The technology uses a switching unit to dynamically route the analog signals from different pixels to different A/D converters. This allows for more efficient use of the A/D converters, leading to faster processing and improved image quality. It's like having a traffic controller for image signals, ensuring everything flows smoothly.\n\n**3. Why Does This Matter?**\nThis innovation has significant implications for various industries. In medical imaging, it can enable higher-resolution scans and faster diagnoses. In surveillance, it can improve image clarity in low-light conditions. In consumer electronics, it can lead to better smartphone cameras and more immersive virtual reality experiences. The market impact is substantial, as improved imaging capabilities are always in high demand. The competitive advantages include faster processing, better image quality, and increased efficiency. Potential ROI is high, as this technology can lead to improved products and services, increased market share, and higher profits.\n\n**4. What's Next?**\nFuture applications include integration with advanced AI algorithms for image recognition and analysis. The market adoption timeline will depend on the cost of implementation and the availability of compatible hardware. Investment implications are positive, as this technology has the potential to generate significant returns for investors. As imaging technology continues to advance, the Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device patent represents a key step towards more efficient and versatile imaging systems.","technical_analysis":"The Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device patent introduces a novel architecture for solid-state image sensors. The system comprises a pixel array unit, A/D conversion units, and a switching unit. The pixel array unit consists of a two-dimensional matrix of pixels and signal lines arranged along the column direction. Each signal line is connected to an A/D conversion unit. The key innovation is the switching unit, which dynamically routes the analog signal from each signal line to any available A/D conversion unit. This architecture allows for flexible allocation of A/D conversion resources, potentially improving throughput and reducing noise. \n\nImplementation details involve careful design and integration of the switching unit and the A/D conversion units. The switching unit must be able to quickly and accurately route signals without introducing noise or distortion. The A/D conversion units must be calibrated to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Algorithm specifics are not detailed in the patent but would likely involve algorithms for dynamically allocating A/D conversion resources based on image characteristics and system load. \n\nIntegration patterns would involve integrating this system into existing imaging devices, such as cameras and medical imaging equipment. Performance characteristics would depend on the specific implementation but could include higher frame rates, improved low-light performance, and reduced power consumption. Code-level implications would involve developing software to control the switching unit and manage the allocation of A/D conversion resources. Overall, this patent presents a promising architecture for improving the performance of solid-state image sensors.","business_analysis":"The Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device patent presents a significant market opportunity within the imaging technology sector. The market for image sensors is substantial and growing, driven by demand from various industries, including medical imaging, surveillance, automotive, and consumer electronics. This technology offers a competitive advantage by providing a more efficient and versatile imaging solution. \n\nThe revenue potential is significant, as this technology can be licensed to manufacturers of imaging devices. It can also be integrated into new products, such as high-resolution cameras and advanced medical imaging equipment. Business models could include licensing the technology, selling integrated image sensors, or offering imaging services. \n\nStrategic positioning involves targeting markets where image quality and efficiency are critical, such as medical imaging and surveillance. This technology can also be positioned as a premium feature in consumer electronics, such as smartphones and digital cameras. ROI projections are high, as this technology can lead to increased revenue, reduced costs, and improved market share. Overall, the Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device patent has the potential to generate significant business value and disrupt the imaging technology market.","faqs":null,"topics":["solid state imaging","A/D conversion","image processing","pixel array","imaging technology"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Solid State Imaging Device - Dynamic A/D Conversion","description":"Discover how Solid State Imaging Device, Method of Controlling Solid State Imaging Device, and Program for Controlling Solid State Imaging Device improves image quality with dynamic A/D conversion. Full patent analysis and claims.","keywords":["solid state imaging","A/D conversion","image processing","pixel array","imaging technology","patent","patent US-9854183"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854183","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854183","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Solid state imaging device, method of controlling solid state imaging device, and program for controlling solid state imaging device\" (US-9854183). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854183","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854183","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854183","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T06:12:52.067Z"}