Diffractive Lenses for Phase Detection Pixel Angular Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems with phase detection capabilities are complex and costly due to the need for multiple image sensors and complex lens arrays, leading to reduced spatial resolution and increased complexity, while conventional phase detection pixels perform unsatisfactorily for applications like automatic focusing and 3D imaging.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of phase detection pixel arrangements with diffractive lenses, which redirect incident light using diffraction to improve angular separation and focus control, allowing for more efficient depth sensing and focusing operations without the need for multiple sensors or complex lens arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple image sensors and complex lens arrays are used for phase detection, then depth sensing capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (imaging and phase detection) into a single image sensor by integrating phase detection pixels within the same sensor array. This merging eliminates the need for separate depth sensing components while maintaining both imaging quality and depth measurement capabilities in one unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - standard imaging through regular pixels and phase detection through specialized pixels within the same sensor. This multi-functionality allows the system to capture both 2D images and depth information using a single device, reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple image sensors and complex lens arrays are used for phase detection, then depth sensing capability is improved, but spatial resolution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is segmented into different pixel types - regular imaging pixels and phase detection pixels - arranged in a coordinated pattern. This segmentation allows each pixel type to optimize its specific function while maintaining high spatial resolution across the entire sensor array, as both pixel types share the same physical pixel structure and optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sensor array have specialized properties - certain pixels are configured for standard imaging while others are configured for phase detection. This local differentiation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the overall spatial resolution of the sensor.
3Device complexity
If conventional phase detection pixels are used, then system complexity is reduced, but performance is unsatisfactory
Solution Approach 1:
The phase detection pixels utilize asymmetric angular responses with specific angular separation parameters optimized for phase detection. By carefully controlling the angular response characteristics and separation between pixels, the system achieves high phase detection precision while maintaining a simple single-sensor architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Diffractive optical elements are introduced as intermediaries to enhance the angular separation of light reaching different pixels. This intermediary component improves the phase detection performance by creating more distinct angular pathways without requiring complex mechanical or optical systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the performance of phase detection pixels by improving angular separation and focus control, enabling more accurate automatic focusing and depth sensing while reducing system complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
phase detection pixel arrangements with diffractive lenses, which redirect incident light using diffraction to improve angular separation and focus control
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor may include phase detection pixels that gather phase detection data. The phase detection pixels may be formed in phase detection pixel groups with two or more phase detection pixels covered by a single microlens. Each phase detection pixel may have an asymmetric angular response to incident light. Phase detection pixels may be covered by diffractive lenses. A diffractive lens may cover a phase detection pixel pair to improve angular separation between the pixels. A diffractive lens may partially cover a phase detection pixel in a phase detection pixel pair to shift the angular response and account for an off-axis chief ray angle of the phase detection pixel pair.