SOLID-STATE IMAGING ELEMENT

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To expand a dynamic range without increase in the number of optical detection elements, or without complication in control of a pixel circuit and/or operation processing in a latter stage of the pixel circuit. SOLUTION: Floating diffusion regions 31 and 32 electrically separated mutually are arranged at one photodiode 10. Transfer gates 21 and 22 are prepared between a storage area 15 and the floating diffusion regions 31 and 32, respectively. The transfer gate 21 is turned on during a full transfer period required for transferring the amount of maximum signal charge storage at the storage area 15 to the floating diffusion region 31. After lapse of the full transfer period, the transfer gate 22 is turned on for a constant period, while the transfer gate 21 is turned off. Thereby, signal charge generated by the photodiode 10 during the period is transferred to the floating diffusion region 32. COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT