Image Sensor Autofocus Speed via Multi-Line Pixel Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors face challenges in quickly and efficiently performing phase detection autofocus, leading to increased time and power consumption during auto focus processing.
Innovation Solution
The image sensor incorporates a pixel array with sub-pixels connected to multiple transmission metal lines, allowing for simultaneous detection of pixel voltages using different transfer gate signals, reducing the time and power required for auto focus processing by enabling efficient phase difference computation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If phase detection autofocus is implemented using existing image sensor configurations, then autofocus function is achieved, but processing time and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented into multiple pixel groups, where each pixel group contains pixels connected to different transmission metal lines. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection of pixel voltages through multiple transmission paths, enabling parallel processing of phase difference information and significantly reducing autofocus processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third transmission metal line in addition to the conventional first and second transmission metal lines, creating a multi-dimensional transmission structure. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous charge transfer through multiple independent paths, allowing parallel acquisition of phase difference data and improving autofocus speed without compromising measurement precision.
2Productivity
If multiple transmission metal lines are used for simultaneous pixel voltage detection, then autofocus efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission metal lines are designed to serve multiple functions: they transfer charges during normal image capture operations and simultaneously enable phase difference detection during autofocus operations. This multi-functionality allows the same transmission infrastructure to support both imaging and autofocus functions, reducing the need for additional dedicated components and minimizing the increase in device complexity.
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 configuration enhances the speed and efficiency of auto focus processing, improving the overall performance of the image sensor by reducing the time and power necessary for phase detection autofocus.
Implementation Method 1
at least a part of charges integrated at the sub-pixels of the pixels belonging to the first row from among the pixels may be diffused to corresponding floating diffusion areas
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes an image sensor that generates image data, and an image processor that processes the image data. The image sensor includes a pixel array including pixels repeatedly disposed along a row direction and a column direction. Each of pixels belonging to a first row of rows of the pixel array includes sub-pixels each connected to one of a first transmission metal line, a second transmission metal line, and a third transmission metal line. In response to signals respectively applied to the first to third transmission metal lines, at least a part of charges integrated at the sub-pixels of the pixels belonging to the first row from among the pixels is diffused to corresponding floating diffusion areas.