CMOS Image Sensor Pixel Correction Near Mixed OCL Shapes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In solid-state image pickup apparatuses, the mixed arrangement of pixels with different On-Chip Lens (OCL) shapes leads to deformation of standard pixels, affecting their sensitivity and causing an uncomfortable feeling in image output, especially in flat portions due to inappropriate correction of pixel values.
Innovation Solution
A correction method is implemented to adjust the pixel values of standard pixels adjacent to phase difference detection pixels with deformed OCL shapes, using a correction section that calculates and applies a correction value based on the positional relationship and flatness of the deformed pixels, thereby stabilizing the image output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 2×1 OCL pixel is arranged on the pixel array to enable phase difference detection, then phase difference detection capability is improved, but the OCL shape of adjacent standard pixels becomes deformed causing sensitivity fluctuations and uncomfortable feeling in image output
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented into different types of pixels (standard pixels and 2×1 OCL pixels) with distinct functions. The 2×1 OCL pixels are specifically designed for phase difference detection while standard pixels maintain regular OCL shapes for color signal generation, allowing both functions to coexist without mutual interference through spatial segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pixel array are assigned different OCL shapes according to their functional requirements. Standard pixels have regular OCL shapes optimized for color imaging, while 2×1 OCL pixels have elongated shapes optimized for phase difference detection. This local differentiation allows each pixel type to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.
2Productivity
If standard pixels are arranged adjacent to 2×1 OCL pixels to maximize pixel utilization, then pixel array efficiency is improved, but the deformed OCL shape causes sensitivity changes and uncomfortable feeling in flat portions of the image
Solution Approach 1:
A correction section is provided that performs preliminary correction on the color signals from standard pixels adjacent to 2×1 OCL pixels. The correction section calculates correction values based on the positional relationship between pixels and applies these corrections before image output, preventing the uncomfortable feeling from occurring in the final image.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction section uses feedback from the pixel array configuration to automatically adjust the color signals. By detecting the positional relationship between standard pixels and 2×1 OCL pixels, the system applies appropriate correction values to compensate for sensitivity changes, ensuring consistent image quality without requiring manual intervention.
3Reliability
If correction processing is applied to standard pixels near 2×1 OCL pixels to reduce sensitivity fluctuations, then image quality consistency is improved, but additional processing steps increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The correction section performs self-service by automatically calculating and applying correction values based on the pixel array configuration. The system uses the known positional relationships between pixels to generate correction values without requiring external input or complex processing, making the correction process efficient and integrated into the existing pixel array structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a solid-state image pickup apparatus, a correction method, and an electronic apparatus, enabled to suppress an apparent uncomfortable feeling of an image output from a solid-state image pickup apparatus in which pixels of different OCL shapes are mounted mixedly. A solid-state image pickup apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a pixel array in which a first pixel in which an OCL (On Chip Lens) of a standard size is formed and a second pixel in which an OCL of a size different from the standard size is formed are present mixedly, and a correction section that corrects a pixel value of the first pixel that is positioned in the vicinity of the second pixel among the first pixels on the pixel array. The present disclosure can be applied to, for example, a CMOS image sensor.