Architectures for imager arrays and array cameras

Abstract

Architectures for imager arrays configured for use in array cameras in accordance with embodiments of the invention are described. One embodiment of the invention includes a plurality of focal planes, where each focal plane comprises a two dimensional arrangement of pixels having at least two pixels in each dimension and each focal plane is contained within a region of the imager array that does not contain pixels from another focal plane, control circuitry configured to control the capture of image information by the pixels within the focal planes, where the control circuitry is configured so that the capture of image information by the pixels in at least two of the focal planes is separately controllable, and sampling circuitry configured to convert pixel outputs into digital pixel data.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 61 / 334,011 filed on May 12, 2010, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to imagers and more specifically to imager arrays used in array cameras.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]A sensor used in a conventional single sensor camera, typically includes a row controller and one or more column read-out circuits. In the context of the array of pixels in an imager, the term “row” is typically used to refer to a group of pixels that share a common control line(s) and the term “column” is a group of pixels that share a common read-out line(s). A number of array camera designs have been proposed that use either an array of individual cameras / sensors or a lens array focused on a single focal plane sensor. When multiple separate cameras are used in the implementation of an array camera, each camera has a separate I / ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a system where an image sensor is made as a single integrated circuit with multiple imagers. Each imager has its own control logic and captures image information from a different perspective. The pixels in each imager are backside illuminated and the bulk silicon is thinned to different depths in different regions of the sensor. The system can have multiple focal planes, each containing a different arrangement of pixels. The control circuitry can control capture of image information by controlling readout, resetting, or integration time of the pixels. The system can also have different capture bands for different colors of light. The plurality of focal planes can be arranged in a 2D array with at least three focal planes in one dimension or in both dimensions. The technical effects of this system include improved image quality, improved control over image capture, and improved processing of image information."

Problems solved by technology

As such, the sensor does not possess the ability to independently control the pixels within the image circle of each lens in the lens array.

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