Pixel structure, pixel control circuit, image sensor and focusing method

Abstract

The invention discloses a pixel structure, a pixel control circuit, an image sensor and a focusing method, and belongs to the technical field of camera equipment. The pixel structure comprises at least one of at least one horizontal phase unit and at least one vertical phase unit. Wherein the horizontal phase unit comprises a left phase pixel subunit and a right phase pixel subunit which have the same color and are horizontally arranged, and each of the left phase pixel subunit and the right phase pixel subunit comprises two pixels which are horizontally arranged; the vertical phase unit comprises an upper phase pixel subunit and a lower phase pixel subunit which have the same color and are vertically arranged, and each of the upper phase pixel subunit and the lower phase pixel subunit comprises two pixels which are vertically arranged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application belongs to the technical field of camera equipment, and specifically relates to a pixel structure, a pixel control circuit, an image sensor and a focusing method. Background Art

[0002] To capture clear, color-accurate images, the camera's focus speed and accuracy are crucial. Currently, most cameras use PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus), such as QPD (Quad Pixel Phase Detection). In this focusing method, each on-chip lens (OCL) covers four pixels of the same color. For four pixels of the same color, whether outputting left-right or top-down phase information, the phase difference information is not optimal for focusing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of the embodiments of the present application is to provide a pixel structure, a pixel control circuit, an image sensor and a focusing method. When the pixel structure includes at least one horizontal phase unit, the left-right phase difference can be increased, thereby improving the accuracy of left-right phase focusing; when the pixel structure includes at least one vertical phase unit, the upper and lower phase difference can be increased, thereby improving the accuracy of upper and lower phase focusing; when the pixel structure includes at least one horizontal phase unit and at least one vertical phase unit, the left-right phase difference and the upper and lower phase difference can be increased, thereby improving the accuracy of left-right phase and upper and lower phase focusing.

[0004] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a pixel structure comprising at least one of the following: at least one horizontal phase unit, at least one vertical phase unit;

[0005] The horizontal phase unit includes a left phase pixel subunit and a right phase pixel subunit of the same color and arranged horizontally, the left phase pixel subunit includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit includes two horizontally arranged pixels;

[0006] The vertical phase unit includes an upper phase pixel subunit and a lower phase pixel subunit of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit includes two vertically arranged pixels.

[0007] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a pixel control circuit for controlling the signal output of the pixel structure described in the first aspect, the pixel control circuit comprising:

[0008] a left-right phase control module connected to the horizontal phase unit, configured to control a first pixel in the horizontal phase unit to output a first phase signal, and to control a second pixel in the horizontal phase unit to output a first image signal of the horizontal phase unit after superimposing a second phase signal with the first phase signal;

[0009] an upper and lower phase control module, connected to the vertical phase unit, configured to control the third pixel in the vertical phase unit to output a third phase signal, and control the fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit to output a second image signal of the vertical phase unit after superimposing the fourth phase signal with the third phase signal;

[0010] The first pixel is at least one pixel in a left phase pixel subunit and the second pixel is at least one pixel in a right phase pixel subunit, or the first pixel is at least one pixel in a right phase pixel subunit and the second pixel is at least one pixel in a left phase pixel subunit;

[0011] The third pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit, or the third pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit.

[0012] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an image sensor, comprising: the pixel structure described in the first aspect above and the pixel control circuit described in the second aspect above; wherein the pixel structure is connected to the pixel control circuit.

[0013] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a camera, comprising: the image sensor described in the third aspect above.

[0014] In a fifth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device, comprising: the camera described in the fourth aspect above.

[0015] In a sixth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a focusing method, which is performed by the image sensor described in the third aspect above, and the method includes at least one of the following steps:

[0016] Acquire a first phase signal and a first image signal output by the horizontal phase unit, generate a second phase signal according to the first image signal and the first phase signal, and perform left and right phase focusing based on the first phase signal and the second phase signal;

[0017] The third phase signal and the second image signal output by the vertical phase unit are acquired, a fourth phase signal is generated according to the second image signal and the third phase signal, and upper and lower phase focusing is performed based on the third phase signal and the fourth phase signal.

[0018] In the seventh aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device, which includes a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs or instructions that can be run on the processor, and when the program or instructions are executed by the processor, the steps of the focusing method described in the sixth aspect are implemented.

[0019] In an eighth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a readable storage medium, on which a program or instruction is stored. When the program or instruction is executed by a processor, the steps of the focusing method described in the sixth aspect are implemented.

[0020] In the ninth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a chip, which includes a processor and a communication interface, the communication interface and the processor are coupled, and the processor is used to run programs or instructions to implement the focusing method as described in the sixth aspect.

[0021] In a tenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a computer program product, which is stored in a storage medium and is executed by at least one processor to implement the focusing method as described in the sixth aspect.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present application, the pixel structure includes at least one of the following: at least one horizontal phase unit and at least one vertical phase unit, wherein the left and right phase pixel subunits in the horizontal phase unit are used for left-right phase focusing, which can improve the left-right phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of left-right phase focusing. The upper and lower phase pixel subunits in the vertical phase unit are used for up-down phase focusing, which can improve the up-down phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. When the pixel structure includes at least one horizontal phase unit and at least one vertical phase unit, it can be applied to focusing in different scenarios, such as horizontal stripe scenes, vertical stripe scenes, and scenes including both horizontal and vertical stripes. It can not only improve the left-right phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of left-right phase focusing, but also improve the up-down phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. It can reduce the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improve focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as improving focusing accuracy in horizontal stripe scenes, improving focusing accuracy in vertical stripe scenes, and improving focusing accuracy in scenes including both horizontal and vertical stripes. Moreover, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, or increasing the up-down phase difference, or increasing both the left-right phase difference and the up-down phase difference at the same time, it helps to increase the calculation speed of the phase information during the focusing process, which can effectively improve the focusing speed. Moreover, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0024] Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of a 4-row, 4-column pixel structure including a horizontal phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0025] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of a 4-row, 4-column pixel structure including a vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0026] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of a 4-row, 4-column pixel structure including two horizontal phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0027] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two vertical phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0028] Figure 3C is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including a horizontal phase unit and a vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0029] Figure 4Ais a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two horizontal phase units containing red pixels and one vertical phase unit containing blue pixels provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0030] Figure 4B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including one horizontal phase unit containing red pixels and two vertical phase units containing blue pixels, provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0031] Figure 4C is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns provided by some embodiments of the present application, including two vertical phase units containing red pixels and one horizontal phase unit containing blue pixels;

[0032] Figure 4D is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns provided by some embodiments of the present application, including a vertical phase unit containing red pixels and two horizontal phase units containing blue pixels;

[0033] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two horizontal phase units containing red pixels and two vertical phase units containing blue pixels provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0034] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two vertical phase units containing red pixels and two horizontal phase units containing blue pixels provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0035] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including a horizontal phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0036] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including a vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0037] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0038] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two vertical phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0039] Figure 7C is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including a horizontal phase unit and a vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0040] Figure 8Ais a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units and one vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0041] Figure 8B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including one horizontal phase unit and two vertical phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0042] Figure 9A is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units containing blue pixels and two vertical phase units containing red pixels provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0043] Figure 9B is a schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units containing red pixels and two vertical phase units containing blue pixels provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0044] Figure 10A is a schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including a horizontal phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0045] Figure 10B is a schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including a vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0046] Figure 11A is a schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including two horizontal phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0047] Figure 11B is a schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including two vertical phase units provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0048] Figure 11C is a schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including a horizontal phase unit and a vertical phase unit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0049] Figure 12 is a schematic structural diagram of a pixel control circuit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0050] Figure 13 is a schematic structural diagram of a pixel control circuit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0051] Figure 14 is a schematic structural diagram of a left and right phase control module provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0052] Figure 15 is a schematic structural diagram of an upper and lower phase control module provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0053] Figure 16 is a schematic structural diagram of a pixel control circuit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0054] Figure 17 is a schematic structural diagram of a pixel control circuit provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0055] Figure 18 is a schematic structural diagram of an image sensor provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0056] Figure 19 is a schematic structural diagram of a photosensitive module provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0057] Figure 20 is a flowchart of a focusing method provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0058] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0059] Description of Reference Numerals

[0060] 10-horizontal phase unit, 20-vertical phase unit, 11-left phase pixel subunit, 12-right phase pixel subunit, 21-upper phase pixel subunit, 22-lower phase pixel subunit, 30-microlens, 100-first floating diffuser, 200-second floating diffuser, 300-left and right phase control module, 400-upper and lower phase control module, 301-first phase switch, 302-second phase switch, 303-first reading switch, 401-third phase switch, 402-fourth phase switch, 403-second reading switch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application to clearly describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the embodiments described are part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0062] The terms "first," "second," and the like in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not used to describe a specific order or precedence. It should be understood that the terms used in this manner are interchangeable where appropriate, so that the embodiments of this application can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein, and that the objects distinguished by "first," "second," and the like are generally of the same type, and do not limit the number of objects; for example, the first object can be one or more. In addition, the term "and / or" in the specification and claims refers to at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the objects connected are in an "or" relationship.

[0063] The pixel structure, pixel control circuit, image sensor and focusing method provided in the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings through specific embodiments and their application scenarios.

[0064] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of pixel structure provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 1 As shown, the pixel structure includes at least one of the following: at least one horizontal phase unit 10 and at least one vertical phase unit 20.

[0065] The horizontal phase unit 10 includes a left phase pixel subunit 11 and a right phase pixel subunit 12 of the same color and arranged horizontally. The left phase pixel subunit 11 includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit 12 includes two horizontally arranged pixels.

[0066] The vertical phase unit 20 includes an upper phase pixel subunit 21 and a lower phase pixel subunit 22 of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit 21 includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22 includes two vertically arranged pixels.

[0067] In some embodiments of the present application, the above-mentioned pixel structure may have various forms, including any of the following:

[0068] 1) at least one horizontal phase unit 10;

[0069] For example, the pixel structure includes one, two, or four horizontal phase units 10 .

[0070] In this case, the left and right phase difference output by the pixel structure can be increased, thereby improving the accuracy of left and right phase focusing and increasing the focusing speed, especially the focus on vertical stripe scenes is more accurate.

[0071] It should be noted that, in the case of including a plurality of horizontal phase units 10 , the plurality of horizontal phase units 10 may be adjacent to each other or may not be adjacent to each other, and there is no specific limitation.

[0072] 2) at least one vertical phase unit 20;

[0073] For example, the pixel structure includes one, three, or five vertical phase units 20 .

[0074] In this case, the upper and lower phase difference output by the pixel structure can be increased, thereby improving the accuracy of upper and lower phase focusing and increasing the focusing speed, especially making the focus on horizontal stripe scenes more accurate.

[0075] It should be noted that, in the case of including a plurality of vertical phase units 20 , the plurality of vertical phase units 20 may be adjacent to each other or may not be adjacent to each other, and the arrangement is not particularly limited.

[0076] 3) At least one horizontal phase unit 10 and at least one vertical phase unit 20.

[0077] For example, the pixel structure includes one horizontal phase unit 10 and one vertical phase unit 20 , or includes two horizontal phase units 10 and two vertical phase units 20 , or includes one horizontal phase unit 10 and three vertical phase units 20 .

[0078] In this case, both the left-right phase difference and the up-down phase difference of the pixel structure output can be increased, thereby improving the accuracy of left-right phase focusing and the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. This can be applied to focusing in different scenarios, including horizontal stripe scenarios, vertical stripe scenarios, and scenarios that include both horizontal and vertical stripes. This can reduce the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improve focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as improving focusing accuracy in horizontal stripe scenarios, improving focusing accuracy in vertical stripe scenarios, and improving focusing accuracy in scenarios that include both horizontal and vertical stripes. Moreover, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, increasing the up-down phase difference, or increasing both the left-right phase difference and the up-down phase difference simultaneously, it helps to increase the speed of calculating phase information during the focusing process, which can effectively improve the focusing speed. Furthermore, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0079] It should be noted that, in the case of including multiple horizontal phase units 10 and multiple vertical phase units 20, any two horizontal phase units 10 may be adjacent or non-adjacent, and any two vertical phase units 20 may be adjacent or non-adjacent; any horizontal phase unit 10 and any vertical phase unit 20 may be adjacent or non-adjacent, without specific limitation.

[0080] In some embodiments of the present application, the horizontal phase unit 10 includes four pixels of the same color and arranged horizontally, wherein the two pixels on the left constitute the left phase pixel sub-unit 11 and the two pixels on the right constitute the right phase pixel sub-unit 12 .

[0081] For example, Figure 1 The middle horizontal phase unit 10 includes four pixels, which are X1, X2, X3 and X4 from left to right. X1 and X2 constitute a left phase pixel sub-unit 11, and X3 and X4 constitute a right phase pixel sub-unit 12.

[0082] In some embodiments of the present application, the vertical phase unit 20 includes four pixels of the same color and arranged vertically, wherein the two upper pixels constitute an upper phase pixel sub-unit 21 and the two lower pixels constitute a lower phase pixel sub-unit 22 .

[0083] For example, Figure 1 The middle vertical phase unit 20 includes four pixels, namely Y1, Y2, Y3 and Y4 from top to bottom. Y1 and Y2 constitute an upper phase pixel sub-unit 21, and Y3 and Y4 constitute a lower phase pixel sub-unit 22.

[0084] In some embodiments of the present application, the horizontal phase unit 10 and the vertical phase unit 20 can each be covered by a microlens 30. In this manner, one microlens covers four pixels, which can provide a greater phase difference compared to a method in which one microlens covers one pixel. For example, by selecting the two pixels farthest apart under the microlens to output the phase difference, not only can the highest phase difference be output, thereby improving focusing accuracy, but it also helps to increase the speed of calculating phase information during the focusing process, effectively improving focusing speed. Moreover, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focus accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0085] In the above pixel structure, other pixels except the horizontal phase unit 10 and the vertical phase unit 20 may each be covered by a microlens 30 .

[0086] It should be noted that Figure 1 The number of pixels other than the horizontal phase unit 10 and the vertical phase unit 20 is only for illustration, and can be set to a different number in actual scenarios, and is not specifically limited.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present application, the microlens 30 covered on the horizontal phase unit 10 and the microlens 30 covered on the vertical phase unit 20 may both be elliptical. For example, Figure 1Pixels X1, X2, X3, and X4 are covered by an elliptical microlens 30, and pixels Y1, Y2, Y3, and Y4 are covered by an elliptical microlens 30. In the above pixel structure, except for the horizontal phase unit 10 and the vertical phase unit 20, the microlenses 30 covered by the other pixels can all be circular.

[0088] In some embodiments of the present application, at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 is used to output a left phase signal. For example, the left pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 is used to output a left phase signal, or the right pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 is used to output a left phase signal, or both the left pixel and the right pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 are used to output a left phase signal. Figure 1 The pixel X1, or the pixel X2, or the pixels X1 and X2 in the left phase pixel subunit 11 are used to output the left phase signal.

[0089] In some embodiments of the present application, at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 is used to output a right phase signal. For example, the left pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 is used to output a right phase signal, or the right pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 is used to output a right phase signal, or both the left pixel and the right pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 are used to output a right phase signal. Figure 1 Pixel X3, or pixel X4, or pixels X3 and X4 in the right phase pixel subunit 12 are used to output a right phase signal.

[0090] In some embodiments of the present application, at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 is used to output an upper phase signal. For example, the upper pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 is used to output an upper phase signal, or the lower pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 is used to output an upper phase signal, or both the upper pixel and the lower pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 are used to output an upper phase signal. Figure 1 , the pixel Y1, or the pixel Y2, or the pixels Y1 and Y2 in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 are used to output the upper phase signal.

[0091] In some embodiments of the present application, at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 is used to output a lower phase signal. For example, the upper pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 is used to output a lower phase signal, or the lower pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 is used to output a lower phase signal, or both the upper pixel and the lower pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 are used to output a lower phase signal. Figure 1 , the pixel Y3, or the pixel Y4, or the pixels Y3 and Y4 in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 are used to output the lower phase signal.

[0092] In some embodiments of the present application, the left phase signal and the right phase signal are used for left and right phase focusing, which is generally applicable to scenes where the image contains vertical stripes. In such scenes, the left and right phase difference can be improved, so that the left and right phase focusing has higher accuracy and faster focusing speed. Moreover, when focusing is faster, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed. The upper phase signal and the lower phase signal are used for upper and lower phase focusing, which is generally applicable to scenes where the image contains horizontal stripes. In such scenes, the upper and lower phase difference can be improved, so that the upper and lower phase focusing has higher accuracy and faster focusing speed. Moreover, when focusing is faster, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0093] By outputting both left and right phase signals as well as upper and lower phase signals, it is possible to focus on images containing both vertical and horizontal stripes. This improves both the left-right phase difference, thereby increasing the accuracy of left-right phase focusing, and the upper-lower phase difference, thereby increasing the accuracy of upper-lower phase focusing. This improves focusing accuracy in scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. Furthermore, this helps to speed up the calculation of phase information during the focusing process, effectively increasing focusing speed. Faster focusing allows for more captured images, while ensuring the focus accuracy of captured images.

[0094] In some embodiments of the present application, when outputting a phase signal, at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11, at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12, at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21, and at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 can be combined, without specific limitation.

[0095] In some embodiments of the present application, the pixels on the left side of the left phase pixel subunit 11 are used to output the left phase signal, and the pixels on the right side of the right phase pixel subunit 12 are used to output the right phase signal. Figure 1 Pixel X1 in the left phase pixel subunit 11 outputs a left phase signal, and pixel X4 in the right phase pixel subunit 12 outputs a right phase signal. That is, the two pixels furthest apart in the horizontal phase unit 10 output left and right phase signals, respectively. This embodiment maximizes the phase difference between the output left and right phase signals, making it suitable for scenes with vertical stripes. It maximizes focus accuracy and speed, and with faster focus, it allows for more captured images while ensuring the focus accuracy of the captured images.

[0096] In some embodiments of the present application, the upper pixels in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 are used to output the upper phase signal, and the lower pixels in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 are used to output the lower phase signal. Figure 1 Pixel Y1 in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 outputs an upper phase signal, and pixel Y4 in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 outputs a lower phase signal. That is, the two pixels furthest apart in the vertical phase unit 20 output upper and lower phase signals, respectively. This implementation maximizes the phase difference between the output upper and lower phase signals, making it suitable for scenes with horizontal stripes. It maximizes focus accuracy and speed, and with faster focus, it allows for more captured images while ensuring the focus accuracy of the captured images.

[0097] In some embodiments of the present application, the pixels on the left side of the left phase pixel subunit 11 are used to output the left phase signal, and the pixels on the right side of the right phase pixel subunit 12 are used to output the right phase signal. The pixels on the upper side of the upper phase pixel subunit 21 are used to output the upper phase signal, and the pixels on the lower side of the lower phase pixel subunit 22 are used to output the lower phase signal. Figure 1 Pixel X1 in the left phase pixel subunit 11 outputs a left phase signal, and pixel X4 in the right phase pixel subunit 12 outputs a right phase signal. That is, the two pixels furthest apart in the horizontal phase unit 10 output left and right phase signals, respectively. Pixel Y1 in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 outputs an upper phase signal, and pixel Y4 in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 outputs a lower phase signal. That is, the two pixels furthest apart in the vertical phase unit 20 output upper and lower phase signals, respectively. In this embodiment, the output left and right phase signals can achieve the maximum phase difference, as can the output upper and lower phase signals. This embodiment is applicable to scenes with vertical stripes, horizontal stripes, or both. While being applicable to different scenes, it can maximize focus accuracy and speed. Furthermore, with faster focus, it can capture more images while ensuring the focus accuracy of the captured images.

[0098] In some embodiments of the present application, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 can be pixels of any of the following colors: red pixel R, blue pixel B, green pixel Gr (green pixel arranged in the same row as R), and green pixel Gb (green pixel arranged in the same row as B). The colors of the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 can be arbitrarily combined and are not specifically limited.

[0099] In some embodiments of the present application, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all red pixels.

[0100] In some embodiments of the present application, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all blue pixels.

[0101] In some embodiments of the present application, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all red pixels, and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all blue pixels.

[0102] In some embodiments of the present application, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all blue pixels, and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all red pixels.

[0103] Of course, other combinations may also be used, such as the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all green pixels Gr, or the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all green pixels Gb, or the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all green pixels Gr and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all green pixels Gb, or the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all red pixels R and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all green pixels Gb, or the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all green pixels Gr and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all blue pixels B, etc., and examples are not given one by one here.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present application, the pixel structure can be implemented using various types of arrays, including but not limited to one of the following: a four-in-one array, a nine-in-one array, and a sixteen-in-one array, without specific limitation.

[0105] In some embodiments of the present application, when the pixel structure is a four-in-one array, the size of the four-in-one array may be different, such as a 4×4 array, an 8×8 array, or a 16×16 array, etc., which is not specifically limited.

[0106] In some embodiments of the present application, the horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent pixels in the upper row of any four pixels that are the same color and adjacent in the pixel structure; or, the horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent pixels in the lower row of any four pixels that are the same color and adjacent in the pixel structure.

[0107] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent pixels in the left column among any four adjacent pixels of the same color in the pixel structure; or, the vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent pixels in the right column among any four adjacent pixels of the same color in the pixel structure.

[0108] The horizontal phase unit 10 and the vertical phase unit 20 do not overlap.

[0109] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including a horizontal phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 2A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10. The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two red pixels adjacent to each other on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and the first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and the second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 2A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0110] Figure 2A In the pixel structure shown, the left phase pixel subunit and the right phase pixel subunit in the horizontal phase unit are used for left and right phase focusing, which can improve the left and right phase difference, improve the accuracy of left and right phase focusing, and increase the focusing speed, especially for vertical stripe scenes with more accurate focusing.

[0111] Figure 2B A schematic diagram of a 4-row, 4-column pixel structure including a vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 2B As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including a vertical phase unit 20. The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 2B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0112] Figure 2B In the pixel structure shown, the upper phase pixel subunit and the lower phase pixel subunit in the vertical phase unit are used for upper and lower phase focusing, which can improve the upper and lower phase difference, improve the accuracy of upper and lower phase focusing, and improve the focusing speed, especially the horizontal stripe scene focusing is more accurate.

[0113] Figure 3A A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two horizontal phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 3A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of four rows and four columns, including two horizontal phase units 10, where the first horizontal phase unit 10 and the second horizontal phase unit 10 are adjacent to each other.

[0114] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four adjacent red pixels R in the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 3A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0115] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 3A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0116] Figure 3A In the pixel structure shown, the left phase pixel subunit and the right phase pixel subunit in the horizontal phase unit are used for left and right phase focusing, which can improve the left and right phase difference, improve the accuracy of left and right phase focusing, and increase the focusing speed, especially for vertical stripe scenes with more accurate focusing.

[0117] Figure 3B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two vertical phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 3B As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of four rows and four columns, including two vertical phase units 20, where the first vertical phase unit 20 and the second vertical phase unit 20 are adjacent to each other on the left and right.

[0118] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column, among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 3B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0119] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the right column of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 3B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0120] Figure 3B In the pixel structure shown, the upper phase pixel subunit and the lower phase pixel subunit in the vertical phase unit are used for upper and lower phase focusing, which can improve the upper and lower phase difference, improve the accuracy of upper and lower phase focusing, and improve the focusing speed, especially the horizontal stripe scene focusing is more accurate.

[0121] Figure 3C A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including a horizontal phase unit and a vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 3C As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of four rows and four columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10 and a vertical phase unit 20.

[0122] The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 3C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0123] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 3C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0124] Figure 3CThe pixel structure shown in the figure, with the left and right phase pixel subunits in the horizontal phase unit used for left-right phase focusing, and the upper and lower phase pixel subunits in the vertical phase unit used for up-down phase focusing, can be applied to focusing in different scenarios, such as horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, and scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. It can improve both the left-right phase difference, thereby improving the accuracy of left-right phase focusing, and the up-down phase difference, thereby improving the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. This can reduce the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improve focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as improving focusing accuracy in horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, and scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. Furthermore, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, the up-down phase difference, or both, helps to increase the speed of phase information calculation during the focusing process, effectively improving focusing speed. Faster focusing allows for more image capture, while ensuring the focus accuracy of captured images.

[0125] Figure 4A A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two horizontal phase units containing red pixels and one vertical phase unit containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 4A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and one vertical phase unit 20. The two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other and the pixels therein are all red pixels, and the pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all blue pixels.

[0126] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four adjacent red pixels R in the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0127] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4AIndicated by the dotted line.

[0128] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the right column of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0129] Figure 4A The pixel structure shown is Figure 3C The pixel structure is similar to that shown in the figure, except that there is an additional horizontal phase unit. Figure 3C The applicable scenarios are the same. Figure 3C On the basis of the effect that can be achieved by the pixel structure, an additional left and right phase difference can be output for left and right phase focusing, thereby further improving the accuracy of left and right phase focusing.

[0130] Figure 4B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including one horizontal phase unit containing red pixels and two vertical phase units containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 4B As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10 and two vertical phase units 20. The two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other and the pixels therein are all blue pixels, and the pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all red pixels.

[0131] The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array and the two adjacent red pixels on the left and right sides. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0132] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column, among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0133] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the right column of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0134] Figure 4B The pixel structure shown is Figure 3C The pixel structure is similar to that shown in the figure, except that there is an additional vertical phase unit. Figure 3C The applicable scenarios are the same. Figure 3C On the basis of the effect that can be achieved by the pixel structure, an upper and lower phase difference can be output for upper and lower phase focusing, thereby further improving the accuracy of upper and lower phase focusing.

[0135] Figure 4C A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two vertical phase units containing red pixels and one horizontal phase unit containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 4C As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10 and two vertical phase units 20. The two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other and the pixels therein are all red pixels, and the pixels in the horizontal phase unit 10 are all blue pixels.

[0136] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels in the left column, one above the other, from the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R1 and R2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4CIndicated by the dotted line.

[0137] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R5 and R6. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0138] The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two blue pixels adjacent to each other on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B1 and B2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0139] Figure 4C The pixel structure shown is Figure 4B The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0140] Figure 4D A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including one vertical phase unit containing red pixels and two horizontal phase units containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 4D As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and one vertical phase unit 20. The two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other and the pixels therein are all blue pixels, and the pixels in the vertical phase unit 20 are all red pixels.

[0141] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels in the left column, one above the other, from the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4D Indicated by the dotted line.

[0142] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two blue pixels adjacent to each other on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B1 and B2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4D Indicated by the dotted line.

[0143] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two blue pixels adjacent to each other on the left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B5 and B6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and fourth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 4D Indicated by the dotted line.

[0144] Figure 4D The pixel structure shown is Figure 4A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0145] Figure 5A A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two horizontal phase units containing red pixels and two vertical phase units containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 5A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and two vertical phase units 20. The two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other up and down and the pixels therein are all red pixels, and the two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other left and right and the pixels therein are all blue pixels.

[0146] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four adjacent red pixels R in the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0147] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0148] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column, among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0149] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the right column of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0150] Figure 5A The pixel structure shown is Figure 3C The pixel structure is similar to that shown in the figure, except that there is one more horizontal phase unit and one vertical phase unit. Figure 3C The same scenario applies. Figure 3C On the basis of the effect that can be achieved by the pixel structure, it can also output a left-right phase difference for left-right phase focusing and an up-down phase difference for up-down phase focusing, thereby further improving the accuracy of left-right phase focusing and the accuracy of up-down phase focusing.

[0151] Figure 5B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 4 rows and 4 columns including two vertical phase units containing red pixels and two horizontal phase units containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 5BAs shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 4 rows and 4 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and two vertical phase units 20. The two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other up and down and the pixels therein are all blue pixels, and the two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other left and right and the pixels therein are all red pixels.

[0152] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels in the left column, one above the other, from the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R1 and R2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0153] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R5 and R6. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0154] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two blue pixels adjacent to each other on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B1 and B2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0155] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two blue pixels adjacent to each other on the left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and third column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B5 and B6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and fourth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 5B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0156] Figure 5B The pixel structure shown is Figure 5A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0157] Figure 6A A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including a horizontal phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 6A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10. The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two red pixels adjacent to each other on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 6A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0158] Figure 6A The pixel structure shown is Figure 2A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0159] Figure 6B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including a vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 6B As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including a vertical phase unit 20. The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the upper and lower left columns of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and seventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and seventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 6B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0160] Figure 6B The pixel structure shown is Figure 2B The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0161] Figure 7A A schematic diagram of an 8-row and 8-column pixel structure including two horizontal phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 7A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 adjacent to each other.

[0162] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, first column, and second column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 7A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0163] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, first column, and second column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the sixth row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the sixth row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 constitute the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 7A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0164] Figure 7A The pixel structure shown is Figure 3A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0165] Figure 7B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two vertical phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 7B As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including two vertical phase units 20 adjacent to each other on the left and right.

[0166] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column, among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and seventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and seventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 7B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0167] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the right column of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and eighth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and eighth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 7B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0168] Figure 7B The pixel structure shown is Figure 3B The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0169] Figure 7C A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including a horizontal phase unit and a vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 7C As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10 and a vertical phase unit 20, and the two are not adjacent.

[0170] The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 7C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0171] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column, among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the lower right corner of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and seventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2. The lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and seventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 7C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0172] Figure 7C The pixel structure shown is Figure 3C The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0173] Figure 8AA schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units and one vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 8A As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and one vertical phase unit 20, and the two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other.

[0174] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the first row, second row, fifth column, and sixth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and fifth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and sixth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 constitute the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 8A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0175] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the first row, second row, fifth column, and sixth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and fifth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and sixth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 constitute the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 8A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0176] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels in the left column, one above the other, from the four adjacent blue pixels B in the seventh row, eighth row, third column, and fourth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 8A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0177] Figure 8A The pixel structure shown is Figure 4A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0178] Figure 8B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including one horizontal phase unit and two vertical phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 8BAs shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including one horizontal phase unit 10 and two vertical phase units 20, and the two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other on the left and right.

[0179] The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent blue pixels on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the third row, fourth row, third column, and fourth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and third column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and fourth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 make up the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 8B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0180] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the left column, one above the other, from the four adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, fifth column, and sixth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and fifth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the sixth row and fifth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens, as shown in FIG. Figure 8B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0181] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the right column, one above the other, out of the four adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, fifth column, and sixth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and sixth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R5 and R6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the sixth row and sixth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 constitute the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens, as shown in FIG. Figure 8B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0182] Figure 8B The pixel structure shown is Figure 4B The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0183] Figure 9A A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units containing blue pixels and two vertical phase units containing red pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 9AAs shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and two vertical phase units 20. The two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other up and down and the pixels therein are all blue pixels, and the two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other left and right and the pixels therein are all red pixels.

[0184] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the left column, one above the other, from the four adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, first column, and second column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the sixth row and first column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens, as shown in FIG. Figure 9A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0185] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the right column, one above the other, from the four adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, first column, and second column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and second column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R5 and R6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the red pixel in the sixth row and second column, includes two vertically arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens, as shown in FIG. Figure 9A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0186] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent blue pixels on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the third row, fourth row, seventh column, and eighth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and seventh column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the third row and eighth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 constitute the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 9A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0187] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent blue pixels on the lower left and right sides of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the third row, fourth row, seventh column, and eighth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and seventh column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the blue pixel in the fourth row and eighth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 constitute the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 9A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0188] Figure 9A The pixel structure shown is Figure 5A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0189] Figure 9B A schematic diagram of a pixel structure with 8 rows and 8 columns including two horizontal phase units containing red pixels and two vertical phase units containing blue pixels is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 9B As shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 8 rows and 8 columns, including two horizontal phase units 10 and two vertical phase units 20. The two horizontal phase units 10 are adjacent to each other up and down and the pixels therein are all red pixels, and the two vertical phase units 20 are adjacent to each other left and right and the pixels therein are all blue pixels.

[0190] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four adjacent red pixels R in the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 9B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0191] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of the two adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 form the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 9B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0192] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels in the left column, one above the other, of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the seventh row, eighth row, third column, and fourth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and third column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens, as shown in FIG. Figure 9B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0193] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels in the right column, one above the other, of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the seventh row, eighth row, third column, and fourth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and fourth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 9B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0194] Figure 9B The pixel structure shown is Figure 9A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0195] Figure 10A A schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including a horizontal phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 10A As shown, the pixel structure is a 16-row, 16-column four-in-one array, including a horizontal phase unit 10. The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two red pixels adjacent to each other on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the upper left corner of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and first column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2, and the right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and second column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 form the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 10A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0196] Figure 10A The pixel structure shown is Figure 2A The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0197] Figure 10B A schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including a vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 10BAs shown, the pixel structure is a four-in-one array of 16 rows and 16 columns, including a vertical phase unit 20. The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the right column among the four adjacent blue pixels B in the seventh row, eighth row, fifteenth column and sixteenth column in the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and sixteenth column, includes two pixels B1 and B2 arranged vertically, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and sixteenth column, includes two pixels B3 and B4 arranged vertically. Pixels B1, B2, B3 and B4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens as shown in FIG. Figure 10B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0198] Figure 10B The pixel structure shown is Figure 2B The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0199] Figure 11A A schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including two horizontal phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 11A As shown, the pixel structure is a 16-row 16-column four-in-one array, including two horizontal phase units 10 adjacent to each other, and all the pixels therein are red pixels.

[0200] The first horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the first row, second row, ninth column, and tenth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and ninth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the first row and tenth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. Pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 constitute the first horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 11A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0201] The second horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels R in the first row, second row, ninth column, and tenth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and ninth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R5 and R6. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the second row and tenth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R7 and R8. Pixels R5, R6, R7, and R8 constitute the second horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 11A Indicated by the dotted line.

[0202] Figure 11A The pixel structure shown is Figure 3AThe pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0203] Figure 11B A schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including two vertical phase units is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 11B As shown, the pixel structure is a 4-in-1 array of 16 rows and 16 columns, including two vertical phase units 20 adjacent to each other on the left and right, and all the pixels therein are blue pixels.

[0204] The first vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels in the left column, one above the other, of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the seventh row, eighth row, eleventh column, and twelfth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and eleventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and eleventh column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the first vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 11B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0205] The second vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels in the right column, one above the other, of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the seventh row, eighth row, eleventh column, and twelfth column of the four-in-one array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the seventh row and twelfth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B5 and B6, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the eighth row and twelfth column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B7 and B8. Pixels B5, B6, B7, and B8 form the second vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 11B Indicated by the dotted line.

[0206] Figure 11B The pixel structure shown is Figure 3B The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0207] Figure 11C A schematic diagram of a 16-row and 16-column pixel structure including a horizontal phase unit and a vertical phase unit is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Figure 11C As shown, the pixel structure is a 4-in-1 array of 16 rows and 16 columns, including a horizontal phase unit 10 and a vertical phase unit 20, and the two are not adjacent.

[0208] The horizontal phase unit 10 is composed of two adjacent red pixels on the upper left and right sides of the four adjacent red pixels R in the fifth row, sixth row, fifth column, and sixth column of the four-in-one array. The left phase pixel subunit 11, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and fifth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R1 and R2. The right phase pixel subunit 12, i.e., the red pixel in the fifth row and sixth column, includes two horizontally arranged pixels R3 and R4. The pixels R1, R2, R3, and R4 make up the horizontal phase unit 10 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 11C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0209] The vertical phase unit 20 is composed of two blue pixels adjacent to each other in the left column, one above the other, of the four adjacent blue pixels B in the 15th row, 16th row, 11th column, and 12th column of the 4-in-1 array. The upper phase pixel subunit 21, i.e., the blue pixel in the 15th row and 11th column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B1 and B2, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22, i.e., the blue pixel in the 16th row and 11th column, includes two vertically arranged pixels B3 and B4. Pixels B1, B2, B3, and B4 form the vertical phase unit 20 and are collectively covered by an elliptical microlens. Figure 11C Indicated by the dotted line.

[0210] Figure 11C The pixel structure shown is Figure 3C The pixel structures shown are applicable to the same scenarios and can achieve the same effects, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0211] In some embodiments of the present application, the pixel structures illustrated in the above figures, where the number of horizontal phase units 10 is 1 or 2, and the number of vertical phase units 20 is 1 or 2, are merely illustrative and do not constitute a specific limitation on the number of horizontal phase units 10 and vertical phase units 20. In actual scenarios, the number of horizontal phase units 10 may also be 3, 4, or 5, and the number of vertical phase units 20 may also be 3, 4, or 5, and the specific number of these units is not limited.

[0212] It should be noted that in some embodiments of the present application, the two horizontally arranged pixels in the left phase pixel subunit 11, the two horizontally arranged pixels in the right phase pixel subunit 12, the two vertically arranged pixels in the upper phase pixel subunit 21, and the two vertically arranged pixels in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 can all be isolated using DTI (Deep Trench Isolation) technology. DTI technology reduces optical crosstalk by creating deep isolation trenches between pixels, significantly improving image quality. Optical crosstalk occurs when one pixel receives light that was intended for an adjacent pixel, a phenomenon that can lead to loss of image detail and color deviation. The DTI manufacturing process involves etching tiny trenches in a silicon substrate and then filling them with insulating material to form isolation walls. These trenches are very deep to ensure that light does not leak from one pixel to an adjacent pixel, even deep below the sensor surface. The trench width and depth require extremely high precision to ensure image sensor performance. DTI technology effectively isolates each pixel, ensuring that light is accurately captured by the target pixel, thereby improving image clarity and color accuracy.

[0213] Some embodiments of the present application provide a pixel structure comprising at least one of the following: at least one horizontal phase unit and at least one vertical phase unit, wherein the left and right phase pixel subunits in the horizontal phase unit are used for left-right phase focusing, which can improve the left-right phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of left-right phase focusing. The upper and lower phase pixel subunits in the vertical phase unit are used for up-down phase focusing, which can improve the up-down phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. When the pixel structure includes at least one horizontal phase unit and at least one vertical phase unit, it can be applied to focusing in different scenarios, such as horizontal stripe scenes, vertical stripe scenes, and scenes including both horizontal and vertical stripes. It can improve both the left-right phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of left-right phase focusing, and the up-down phase difference and thus improve the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. It can reduce the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improve focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as improving focusing accuracy in horizontal stripe scenes, improving focusing accuracy in vertical stripe scenes, and improving focusing accuracy in scenes including both horizontal and vertical stripes. Moreover, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, or increasing the up-down phase difference, or increasing both the left-right phase difference and the up-down phase difference at the same time, it helps to increase the calculation speed of the phase information during the focusing process, which can effectively improve the focusing speed. Moreover, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0214] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pixel control circuit provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 12As shown, the pixel control circuit 1 is used to control the signal output of the pixel structure provided by any of the above embodiments. The pixel control circuit 1 includes: a left-right phase control module 300 and an up-down phase control module 400.

[0215] The left and right phase control module 300 is connected to the horizontal phase unit 10 and is used to control the first pixel in the horizontal phase unit 10 to output a first phase signal, and to control the second pixel in the horizontal phase unit 10 to output a first image signal after superimposing the second phase signal with the first phase signal.

[0216] The upper and lower phase control module 400 is connected to the vertical phase unit 20 and is used to control the third pixel in the vertical phase unit 20 to output a third phase signal, and to control the fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit 20 to output a second image signal of the vertical phase unit 20 after superimposing the fourth phase signal with the third phase signal.

[0217] The first pixel is at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 and the second pixel is at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12, or the first pixel is at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 and the second pixel is at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11.

[0218] The third pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22, or the third pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21.

[0219] The horizontal phase unit 10 includes a left phase pixel subunit 11 and a right phase pixel subunit 12 of the same color and arranged horizontally. The left phase pixel subunit 11 includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit 12 includes two horizontally arranged pixels.

[0220] The vertical phase unit 20 includes an upper phase pixel subunit 21 and a lower phase pixel subunit 22 of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit 21 includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22 includes two vertically arranged pixels.

[0221] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pixel control circuit provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments of the present application, the pixel control circuit 1 may further include: a first floating diffuser 100 and a second floating diffuser 200 .

[0222] The first floating diffusion 100 is connected to the horizontal phase unit 10 and is used to store the photogenerated charges generated by the horizontal phase unit 10 .

[0223] The second floating diffusion 200 is connected to the vertical phase unit 20 and is used to store the photogenerated charges generated by the vertical phase unit 20 .

[0224] The left and right phase control modules 300 are connected to the horizontal phase unit 10 and the first floating diffuser 100, respectively. The left and right phase control modules 300 are configured to control the first photogenerated charge of the first pixel in the horizontal phase unit 10 to be transferred to the first floating diffuser 100 and then output a first phase signal. The left and right phase control modules 300 are also configured to control the second photogenerated charge of the second pixel in the horizontal phase unit 10 to be transferred to the first floating diffuser 100 and then superimposed with the first photogenerated charge to output a first image signal of the horizontal phase unit 10.

[0225] The upper and lower phase control module 400 is connected to the vertical phase unit 20 and is used to control the third photogenerated charge of the third pixel in the vertical phase unit 20 to be transferred to the second floating diffuser 200 and output a third phase signal, and to control the fourth photogenerated charge of the fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit 20 to be transferred to the second floating diffuser 200 and superimposed with the third photogenerated charge to output a second image signal of the vertical phase unit 20.

[0226] The horizontal phase unit 10 includes a left phase pixel subunit 11 and a right phase pixel subunit 12 of the same color and arranged horizontally. The left phase pixel subunit 11 includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit 12 includes two horizontally arranged pixels.

[0227] The vertical phase unit 20 includes an upper phase pixel subunit 21 and a lower phase pixel subunit 22 of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit 21 includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22 includes two vertically arranged pixels.

[0228] The first pixel is at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 and the second pixel is at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12, or the first pixel is at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 and the second pixel is at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11.

[0229] That is, the left phase signal may be output first, followed by the first image signal, and the right phase signal may be obtained based on the first image signal and the left phase signal. Alternatively, the right phase signal may be output first, followed by the first image signal, and the left phase signal may be obtained based on the first image signal and the right phase signal.

[0230] The third pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22, or the third pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21.

[0231] That is, the upper phase signal may be output first, followed by the second image signal, and the lower phase signal may be derived from the second image signal and the upper phase signal. Alternatively, the lower phase signal may be output first, followed by the second image signal, and the upper phase signal may be derived from the second image signal and the lower phase signal.

[0232] In some embodiments of the present application, Figure 14 As shown, the left and right phase control module 300 in the above pixel control circuit 1 may include:

[0233] The first phase switch 301 is disposed between the first pixel and the first floating diffusion 100 in the horizontal phase unit 10 .

[0234] The second phase switch 302 is disposed between the second pixel in the horizontal phase unit 10 and the first floating diffusion 100 .

[0235] The first read switch 303 is connected to the first phase switch 301 , the second phase switch 302 and the first floating diffusion 100 , respectively.

[0236] When the first phase switch 301 is turned on and the second phase switch 302 and the first read switch 303 are turned off, the first photogenerated charges of the first pixel are transferred to the first floating diffusion 100 .

[0237] When the second phase switch 302 is turned off, the first read switch 303 is turned on, and the first floating diffusion 100 stores the first photogenerated charges, the first floating diffusion 100 outputs a first phase signal.

[0238] When the second phase switch 302 is turned on and the first read switch 303 is turned off, the second photogenerated charges of the second pixel are transferred to the first floating diffusion 100 and superimposed with the first photogenerated charges.

[0239] When the first read switch 303 is turned on and the first floating diffusion 100 stores the sum of the first photo-generated charges and the second photo-generated charges, the first floating diffusion 100 outputs the first image signal of the horizontal phase unit 10 .

[0240] The first pixel is at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11 and the second pixel is at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12, or the first pixel is at least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit 12 and the second pixel is at least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit 11.

[0241] The horizontal phase unit 10 includes a left phase pixel subunit 11 and a right phase pixel subunit 12 of the same color and arranged horizontally. The left phase pixel subunit 11 includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit 12 includes two horizontally arranged pixels.

[0242] The vertical phase unit 20 includes an upper phase pixel subunit 21 and a lower phase pixel subunit 22 of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit 21 includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22 includes two vertically arranged pixels.

[0243] In some embodiments of the present application, Figure 15 As shown, the upper and lower phase control module 400 in the above pixel control circuit 1 may include:

[0244] The third phase switch 401 is disposed between the third pixel in the vertical phase unit 20 and the second floating diffusion 200 .

[0245] The fourth phase switch 402 is disposed between the fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit 20 and the second floating diffusion 200 .

[0246] The second read switch 403 is connected to the third phase switch 401 , the fourth phase switch 402 and the second floating diffusion 200 , respectively.

[0247] When the third phase switch 401 is turned on and the fourth phase switch 402 and the second read switch 403 are both turned off, the third photogenerated charges of the third pixel are transferred to the second floating diffusion 200 .

[0248] When the fourth phase switch 402 is turned off, the second read switch 403 is turned on, and the second floating diffusion 200 stores the third photogenerated charges, the second floating diffusion 200 outputs a third phase signal.

[0249] When the fourth phase switch 402 is turned on and the second read switch 403 is turned off, the fourth photogenerated charges of the fourth pixel are transferred to the second floating diffusion 200 and are superimposed with the third photogenerated charges.

[0250] When the second read switch 403 is turned on and the second floating diffusion 200 stores the sum of the third photo-generated charges and the fourth photo-generated charges, the second floating diffusion 200 outputs the second image signal of the vertical phase unit 20 .

[0251] The third pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21 and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22, or the third pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit 22 and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit 21.

[0252] The horizontal phase unit 10 includes a left phase pixel subunit 11 and a right phase pixel subunit 12 of the same color and arranged horizontally. The left phase pixel subunit 11 includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit 12 includes two horizontally arranged pixels.

[0253] The vertical phase unit 20 includes an upper phase pixel subunit 21 and a lower phase pixel subunit 22 of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit 21 includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit 22 includes two vertically arranged pixels.

[0254] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pixel control circuit provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 16 As shown, the pixel control circuit 1 is used to control the signal output of the horizontal phase unit 10 in the pixel structure provided by any of the above embodiments. The pixel control circuit 1 includes: 4 photosensitive diodes PD1~PD4, a reset transistor RST1, 6 floating switches TG1~TG6, two floating diffusions FD1 and FD2, a row selector SET1 and a source follower SF1.

[0255] PD1 and PD2 are two pixels in the left-phase pixel subunit, while PD3 and PD4 are two pixels in the right-phase pixel subunit. TG1-TG4 control the on / off switching of PD1-PD4 to control the light-sensitive duration. RST1 clears any residual photogenerated electrons in PD1-PD4 and FD1-FD2. FD1 is a floating diffuser shared by PD1 and PD4, acting as a capacitor and carrying the photogenerated charge transferred from PD1 and PD4. FD2 is a floating diffuser shared by PD2 and PD3, acting as a capacitor and carrying the photogenerated charge transferred from PD2 and PD3. TG5 controls the switch for FD1, and TG6 controls the switch for FD2. SF1 transfers the charge in FD1 to the output. SET1 controls the pixel output. When SET1 is on, the charge in FD1 or FD2 is transferred through SF1 to the ADC module for digital-to-analog conversion, converting Vout into a digital signal.

[0256] The working process of the pixel control circuit 1 includes the following steps:

[0257] Step 1: Residual electrons in the left phase pixel sub-unit, the right phase pixel sub-unit, and the floating diffuser are cleared.

[0258] First, RST1 and TG1-TG4 are activated to clear any residual electrons from the two pixels PD1 and PD2 in the left phase pixel subunit, the two pixels PD3 and PD4 in the right phase pixel subunit, and the floating diffusions FD1 and FD2. After clearing, the pixels are disconnected and exposure begins. The electric fields of PD1-PD4 separate the electron-hole pairs generated by light exposure, with electrons migrating to the n-region and holes to the p-region.

[0259] Step 2: Reset.

[0260] At the end of exposure, RST1 is closed again to reset both floating diffusions FD1 and FD2 to a high level, ready to receive photosensitive charges from the two pixels PD1 and PD2 in the left phase pixel subunit and the two pixels PD3 and PD4 in the right phase pixel subunit.

[0261] Step 3: First charge transfer.

[0262] Activating TG1 and TG2 transfers the charges of the two pixels PD1 and PD2 in the left phase pixel subunit from the photosensitive region to the floating diffusions FD1 and FD2 for readout, respectively.

[0263] Step 4: Left phase signal readout.

[0264] TG5 and TG6 are closed in sequence, and the voltage signals of floating diffusions FD1 and FD2 are read out through SF1 and SET1, respectively, i.e., left phase signals, denoted as A and B. Among them, the signal output by PD1 is the left phase signal A, and the signal output by PD2 is the left phase signal B.

[0265] Step 5: Second charge transfer.

[0266] Activating TG3 and TG4 transfers the charges of the two pixels PD3 and PD4 in the right phase pixel sub-unit from the photosensitive area to the floating diffusions FD2 and FD1 respectively for readout.

[0267] Step 6: Read out the first image signal.

[0268] TG5 and TG6 are closed in sequence, and the voltage signals of floating diffusions FD1 and FD2 are read out through SF1 and SET1, respectively, and recorded as C and D. The phase signals of PD1 and PD4 are superimposed to output the first image signal C, and the phase signals of PD2 and PD3 are superimposed to output the first image signal D.

[0269] Step 7: Get the right phase signal.

[0270] A right phase signal is obtained based on the first image signal and the left phase signal. The voltage output by the pixel control circuit is converted from analog to digital to obtain a digital signal. Both the image signal and the phase signal correspond to grayscale values ​​in the image, allowing arithmetic operations to be performed on the grayscale values. Specifically, a subtraction operation can be performed on the output image signal and the phase signal. For example, the first image signal C minus the left phase signal A yields the corresponding right phase signal, i.e., the phase signal of PD4; the first image signal D minus the left phase signal B yields the corresponding right phase signal, i.e., the phase signal of PD3.

[0271] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pixel control circuit provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 17 As shown, the pixel control circuit 1 is used to control the signal output of the pixel structure provided by any of the above embodiments. Figure 16 The pixel control circuit shown is similar, the only difference is that the control signal is output to the vertical phase unit 20 in the pixel structure, and the control process is not repeated here.

[0272] It should be noted that Figure 16 and 17 The pixel control circuits shown can also be used in combination to control the signal output of the horizontal phase unit 10 and the signal output of the vertical phase unit 20. The control process will not be described in detail.

[0273] In some embodiments of the present application, the pixel control circuit provides a circuit that controls the horizontal phase unit 10 to output a first phase signal and a first image signal for left-right phase focusing, thereby improving the left-right phase difference and thus the accuracy of left-right phase focusing. Furthermore, the vertical phase control module 400 controls the output of a third phase signal and a second image signal for vertical phase focusing, thereby improving the vertical phase difference and thus the accuracy of vertical phase focusing. Furthermore, by controlling left-right phase focusing by the left-right phase control module 300 and vertical phase focusing by the vertical phase control module 400, the circuit can be applied to focusing in different scenarios, such as horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, and scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. This improves both the left-right phase difference and thus the accuracy of left-right phase focusing, as well as the vertical phase difference and thus the accuracy of vertical phase focusing. This reduces the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improves focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as those with horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, and scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. Moreover, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, or increasing the up-down phase difference, or increasing both the left-right phase difference and the up-down phase difference at the same time, it helps to increase the calculation speed of the phase information during the focusing process, which can effectively improve the focusing speed. Moreover, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0274] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the image sensor provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 18 As shown, the image sensor 1800 includes: a pixel control circuit 1 provided by any of the above embodiments and a pixel structure 2 provided by any of the above embodiments.

[0275] The structure and function of the pixel control circuit 1 in this embodiment are the same as those of the pixel control circuit 1 provided in any of the above embodiments. The structure and function of the pixel structure 2 in this embodiment are the same as those of the pixel structure provided in any of the above embodiments. Detailed description is omitted here.

[0276] In some embodiments of the present application, the image sensor described above is provided by controlling the pixel structure 2 to output a horizontal phase signal for left-right phase focusing, thereby improving the left-right phase difference and thus improving the left-right phase focusing accuracy. Alternatively, the pixel control circuit 1 controls the pixel structure 2 to output a vertical phase signal for up-down phase focusing, thereby improving the up-down phase difference and thus improving the up-down phase focusing accuracy. Alternatively, the pixel control circuit 1 controls the pixel structure 2 to output both a horizontal phase signal and a vertical phase signal, thereby adapting to focusing in different scenarios, such as horizontal stripe scenarios, vertical stripe scenarios, and scenarios containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. This improves both the left-right phase difference and thus improves the left-right phase focusing accuracy, and the up-down phase difference and thus improves the up-down phase focusing accuracy, thereby reducing the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improving focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as improving focusing accuracy in horizontal stripe scenarios, improving focusing accuracy in vertical stripe scenarios, and improving focusing accuracy in scenarios containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. Moreover, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, or increasing the up-down phase difference, or increasing both the left-right phase difference and the up-down phase difference at the same time, it helps to increase the calculation speed of the phase information during the focusing process, which can effectively improve the focusing speed. Moreover, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focusing accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0277] Some embodiments of the present application also provide a camera, including the image sensor provided by the above embodiments.

[0278] Some embodiments of the present application further provide electronic devices, including the camera provided in the above embodiments, such as mobile phones, tablet computers, etc., without limitation.

[0279] See also Figure 19 , is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photosensitive module provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 19 As shown, some embodiments of the present application also provide a photosensitive module, including Figure 18 The image sensor 1900 shown in FIG. Figure 18 The image sensors in the illustrated embodiments can achieve the same technical effects, and to avoid repetition, they will not be described here. Optionally, the photosensitive module may further include a filter 1910, electronic components 1920, a base 1930, a voice coil motor 1940, and a lens 1950.

[0280] Lens 1950 is used for focusing and focusing. It is encased and secured by a voice coil motor 1940, which is connected to springs (not shown) at its top and bottom. When focusing, power is applied to the voice coil motor 1940 to generate an electromagnetic force that ultimately balances the spring force. The position of the voice coil motor 1940 can be controlled by the amount of power applied, ultimately pushing the voice coil motor 1940 and lens 1950 into the focused position.

[0281] Filter 1910 is used to filter out unnecessary light, such as infrared light, that is projected onto the image sensor, preventing the image sensor from generating false colors or ripples, thereby improving its effective resolution and color reproduction. Light that passes through filter 1910 can then be sensed by the image sensor.

[0282] The image sensor 1900 is used to sense visible light and convert the light signal into a voltage signal. The voltage signal is converted into a digital signal by an ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter), and then a raw image is output to the ISP for processing to obtain image data.

[0283] See also Figure 20 , is a flowchart of a focusing method provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 20 As shown, the focusing method provided by some embodiments of the present application can be Figure 18 The image sensor 1800 shown in FIG. 1 is executed. The method specifically includes step 2002, or includes step 2004, or includes steps 2002 and 2004. The figure takes steps 2002 and 2004 as an example.

[0284] Step 2002: Acquire a first phase signal and a first image signal output by a horizontal phase unit, generate a second phase signal according to the first image signal and the first phase signal, and perform left and right phase focusing based on the first phase signal and the second phase signal.

[0285] The digital signal obtained by analog-to-digital conversion of the voltage signal output by the horizontal phase unit corresponds to the grayscale value of the pixel in the image.

[0286] The above-mentioned generation of the second phase signal based on the first image signal and the first phase signal can be specifically generated by subtracting the first phase signal from the first image signal, which corresponds to the grayscale value of the first phase signal being subtracted from the grayscale value of the first image signal to generate the grayscale value of the second phase signal. No further explanation is given here.

[0287] Step 2004: Acquire the third phase signal and the second image signal output by the vertical phase unit, generate a fourth phase signal according to the second image signal and the third phase signal, and perform up and down phase focusing based on the third phase signal and the fourth phase signal.

[0288] The voltage signal output by the vertical phase unit is converted into a digital signal, which corresponds to the grayscale value of the pixel in the image.

[0289] The above-mentioned generation of the fourth phase signal based on the second image signal and the third phase signal can be specifically generated by subtracting the third phase signal from the second image signal, which corresponds to the grayscale value of the fourth phase signal being generated by subtracting the grayscale value of the third phase signal from the grayscale value of the second image signal. No further explanation is given here.

[0290] In some embodiments of the present application, the above-mentioned left-right phase focusing based on the first phase signal and the second phase signal can determine whether to perform left-right phase focusing based on whether the image corresponding to the first phase signal and the image corresponding to the second phase signal overlap. For example, if the image corresponding to the first phase signal and the image corresponding to the second phase signal overlap, it is confirmed that the current state is in focus and there is no need to perform left-right phase focusing; if the image corresponding to the first phase signal and the image corresponding to the second phase signal do not overlap, it is confirmed that the current state is out of focus and left-right phase focusing is required.

[0291] In some embodiments of the present application, the above-mentioned upper and lower phase focusing based on the third phase signal and the fourth phase signal can determine whether to perform upper and lower phase focusing based on whether the image corresponding to the third phase signal and the image corresponding to the fourth phase signal overlap. For example, if the image corresponding to the third phase signal and the image corresponding to the fourth phase signal overlap, it is confirmed that the current state is in focus and no upper and lower phase focusing is required; if the image corresponding to the third phase signal and the image corresponding to the fourth phase signal do not overlap, it is confirmed that the current state is out of focus and upper and lower phase focusing is required.

[0292] The focusing method provided in some embodiments of the present application can obtain a first phase signal and a first image signal output by a horizontal phase unit, and generate a second phase signal based on the first image signal and the first phase signal. This allows for rapid left-right phase focusing based on the first phase signal and the second phase signal, thereby increasing the left-right phase difference and thereby improving the accuracy of left-right phase focusing. Alternatively, the method can obtain a third phase signal and a second image signal output by a vertical phase unit, and generate a fourth phase signal based on the second image signal and the third phase signal. This allows for rapid up-down phase focusing based on the third phase signal and the fourth phase signal, thereby increasing the up-down phase difference and thereby improving the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. Alternatively, by acquiring a first phase signal and a first image signal output by a horizontal phase unit, generating a second phase signal based on the first image signal and the first phase signal, and by acquiring a third phase signal and a second image signal output by a vertical phase unit, generating a fourth phase signal based on the second image signal and the third phase signal, the method can be applied to focusing in different scenarios, such as horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, and scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. This method can improve the left-right phase difference, thereby improving the accuracy of left-right phase focusing, and can also improve the up-down phase difference, thereby improving the accuracy of up-down phase focusing. This method can reduce the impact of the application scenario on focusing performance and improve focusing accuracy in different scenarios, such as improving focusing accuracy in horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, and scenes containing both horizontal and vertical stripes. Furthermore, whether increasing the left-right phase difference, the up-down phase difference, or both simultaneously, helps to increase the speed of calculating phase information during the focusing process, effectively improving focusing speed. Furthermore, with faster focusing, more images can be captured, and the focus accuracy of the captured images can be guaranteed.

[0293] See also Figure 21 , is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 21 As shown, an embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic device 2100, including a processor 2101 and a memory 2102, wherein the memory 2102 stores a program or instruction that can be run on the processor 2101, and when the program or instruction is executed by the processor 2101, the various steps of the above-mentioned focusing method embodiment are implemented, and the same technical effect can be achieved. To avoid repetition, they are not described here.

[0294] It should be noted that the electronic devices in the embodiments of the present application include mobile electronic devices and non-mobile electronic devices.

[0295] An embodiment of the present application also provides a readable storage medium, on which a program or instruction is stored. When the program or instruction is executed by a processor, the various processes of the above-mentioned focusing method embodiment are implemented and the same technical effect can be achieved. To avoid repetition, it will not be repeated here.

[0296] The processor is the processor in the electronic device described in the above embodiment. The readable storage medium includes a computer readable storage medium, such as a computer read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0297] An embodiment of the present application further provides a chip, which includes a processor and a communication interface, wherein the communication interface is coupled to the processor, and the processor is used to run programs or instructions to implement the various processes of the above-mentioned focusing method embodiment and can achieve the same technical effect. To avoid repetition, it will not be repeated here.

[0298] It should be understood that the chip mentioned in the embodiments of the present application can also be called a system-level chip, a system chip, a chip system or a system-on-chip chip, etc.

[0299] An embodiment of the present application provides a computer program product, which is stored in a storage medium. The program product is executed by at least one processor to implement the various processes of the above-mentioned focusing method embodiment and can achieve the same technical effect. To avoid repetition, it will not be repeated here.

[0300] It should be noted that, in this article, the terms "comprise", "include" or any other variants thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, article or device comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also includes elements inherent to such process, method, article or device. In the absence of further restrictions, an element defined by the statement "comprises a ..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article or device comprising the element. In addition, it should be noted that the scope of the methods and devices in the embodiments of the present application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, and may also include performing functions in a substantially simultaneous manner or in the opposite order according to the functions involved. For example, the described method may be performed in an order different from that described, and various steps may also be added, omitted, or combined. In addition, the features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.

[0301] Through the description of the above implementation methods, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the above-mentioned embodiment methods can be implemented by means of software plus the necessary general hardware platform, and of course can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application is essentially or the part that contributes to the prior art can be embodied in the form of a computer software product, which is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk), including a number of instructions for enabling a terminal (which can be a mobile phone, computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in each embodiment of the present application.

[0302] The embodiments of the present application are described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, but the present application is not limited to the above-mentioned specific implementation methods. The above-mentioned specific implementation methods are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Under the guidance of this application, ordinary technicians in this field can also make many forms without departing from the purpose of this application and the scope of protection of the claims, all of which are within the protection of this application.

Claims

1. A pixel structure, characterized in that: including at least one of the following: at least one horizontal phase unit, at least one vertical phase unit; The horizontal phase unit includes a left phase pixel subunit and a right phase pixel subunit of the same color and arranged horizontally, the left phase pixel subunit includes two horizontally arranged pixels, and the right phase pixel subunit includes two horizontally arranged pixels; The vertical phase unit includes an upper phase pixel subunit and a lower phase pixel subunit of the same color and arranged vertically. The upper phase pixel subunit includes two vertically arranged pixels, and the lower phase pixel subunit includes two vertically arranged pixels.

2. The pixel structure according to claim 1, wherein: At least one pixel in the left phase pixel subunit is used to output a left phase signal; At least one pixel in the right phase pixel subunit is used to output a right phase signal; At least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit is used to output an upper phase signal; At least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit is used to output a lower phase signal.

3. The pixel structure according to claim 2, wherein: The pixels on the left side of the left phase pixel subunit are used to output a left phase signal; The pixels on the right side of the right phase pixel subunit are used to output right phase signals; The upper pixels in the upper phase pixel subunit are used to output an upper phase signal; The pixels on the lower side of the lower phase pixel subunit are used to output lower phase signals.

4. The pixel structure according to claim 1, wherein: The four pixels in the horizontal phase unit and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit are all red pixels; Alternatively, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit are all blue pixels; Alternatively, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit are all red pixels, and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit are all blue pixels; Alternatively, the four pixels in the horizontal phase unit are all blue pixels, and the four pixels in the vertical phase unit are all red pixels.

5. The pixel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The pixel structure is distributed in a 4×4 array, an 8×8 array, or a 16×16 array; The horizontal phase unit is composed of two pixels that are adjacent to each other in the upper row among any four pixels that are the same color and adjacent to each other in the pixel structure; or, the horizontal phase unit is composed of two pixels that are adjacent to each other in the lower row among any four pixels that are the same color and adjacent to each other in the pixel structure; The vertical phase unit is composed of two pixels that are adjacent to each other in the left column among any four pixels that are the same color and adjacent to each other in the pixel structure; or, the vertical phase unit is composed of two pixels that are adjacent to each other in the right column among any four pixels that are the same color and adjacent to each other in the pixel structure; The horizontal phase unit and the vertical phase unit do not overlap.

6. The pixel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The horizontal phase unit and the vertical phase unit are respectively covered by a micro lens.

7. A pixel control circuit, characterized in that: Used to control the signal output of the pixel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the pixel control circuit comprising: a left-right phase control module connected to the horizontal phase unit, configured to control a first pixel in the horizontal phase unit to output a first phase signal, and to control a second pixel in the horizontal phase unit to output a first image signal of the horizontal phase unit after superimposing the second phase signal with the first phase signal; an upper and lower phase control module connected to the vertical phase unit, configured to control the third pixel in the vertical phase unit to output a third phase signal, and to control the fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit to output a second image signal of the vertical phase unit after superimposing the fourth phase signal with the third phase signal; The first pixel is at least one pixel in a left phase pixel subunit and the second pixel is at least one pixel in a right phase pixel subunit, or the first pixel is at least one pixel in a right phase pixel subunit and the second pixel is at least one pixel in a left phase pixel subunit; The third pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit, or the third pixel is at least one pixel in the lower phase pixel subunit and the fourth pixel is at least one pixel in the upper phase pixel subunit.

8. The pixel control circuit according to claim 7, wherein: Also includes: a first floating diffuser and a second floating diffuser; The first floating diffuser is connected to the horizontal phase unit, and the first floating diffuser is used to store the photogenerated charges generated by the horizontal phase unit; The second floating diffusion is connected to the vertical phase unit, and the second floating diffusion is used to store the photogenerated charges generated by the vertical phase unit; The left and right phase control modules are connected to the horizontal phase unit and the first floating diffuser, respectively. The left and right phase control modules are used to control the first photogenerated charge of the first pixel in the horizontal phase unit to be transferred to the first floating diffuser and then output a first phase signal, and to control the second photogenerated charge of the second pixel in the horizontal phase unit to be transferred to the first floating diffuser and then output a first image signal of the horizontal phase unit after being superimposed with the first photogenerated charge. The upper and lower phase control modules are connected to the vertical phase unit. The upper and lower phase control modules are used to control the third photogenerated charge of the third pixel in the vertical phase unit to be transferred to the second floating diffusion and then output a third phase signal, and to control the fourth photogenerated charge of the fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit to be transferred to the second floating diffusion and then output a second image signal of the vertical phase unit after being superimposed with the third photogenerated charge.

9. The pixel control circuit according to claim 8, wherein: The left and right phase control module includes: a first phase switch disposed between the first pixel in the horizontal phase unit and the first floating diffuser; a second phase switch disposed between the second pixel in the horizontal phase unit and the first floating diffuser; a first read switch connected to the first phase switch, the second phase switch and the first floating diffuser respectively; When the first phase switch is turned on and the second phase switch and the first read switch are both turned off, the first photogenerated charges of the first pixel are transferred to the first floating diffusion; When the second phase switch is turned off, the first read switch is turned on, and the first floating diffusion stores the first photogenerated charges, the first floating diffusion outputs a first phase signal; When the second phase switch is turned on and the first read switch is turned off, the second photogenerated charges of the second pixel are transferred to the first floating diffusion and superimposed with the first photogenerated charges; When the first read switch is turned on and the first floating diffusion stores the sum of the first photo-generated charges and the second photo-generated charges, the first floating diffusion outputs the first image signal of the horizontal phase unit.

10. The pixel control circuit according to claim 8, wherein: The upper and lower phase control module includes: a third phase switch, disposed between a third pixel in the vertical phase unit and the second floating diffuser; a fourth phase switch, disposed between a fourth pixel in the vertical phase unit and the second floating diffuser; a second read switch connected to the third phase switch, the fourth phase switch and the second floating diffuser respectively; When the third phase switch is turned on and the fourth phase switch and the second read switch are both turned off, the third photogenerated charges of the third pixel are transferred to the second floating diffusion; When the fourth phase switch is turned off, the second read switch is turned on, and the second floating diffusion stores the third photogenerated charges, the second floating diffusion outputs a third phase signal; When the fourth phase switch is turned on and the second read switch is turned off, the fourth photogenerated charges of the fourth pixel are transferred to the second floating diffusion and superimposed with the third photogenerated charges; When the second read switch is turned on and the second floating diffusion stores the sum of the third photo-generated charges and the fourth photo-generated charges, the second floating diffusion outputs the second image signal of the vertical phase unit.

11. An image sensor, characterized in that: It comprises the pixel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and the pixel control circuit according to any one of claims 7 to 10; wherein the pixel structure is connected to the pixel control circuit.

12. A camera, characterized in that: The image sensor according to claim 11 is included.

13. An electronic device, characterized in that: Including the camera described in claim 12.

14. A focusing method, characterized in that: The method is performed by the image sensor according to claim 11, wherein the method comprises at least one of the following steps: Acquire a first phase signal and a first image signal output by the horizontal phase unit, generate a second phase signal according to the first image signal and the first phase signal, and perform left and right phase focusing based on the first phase signal and the second phase signal; The third phase signal and the second image signal output by the vertical phase unit are acquired, a fourth phase signal is generated according to the second image signal and the third phase signal, and upper and lower phase focusing is performed based on the third phase signal and the fourth phase signal.

Images