Image Sensor Depth Detection Pixel Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D image sensors face challenges in producing reliable depth data in high illumination environments and have complex, expensive structures, such as those requiring multiple cameras for triangulation techniques.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor with a pixel array integrating color detection pixels and depth detection pixels of different focal lengths, along with phase difference detection pixels, to suppress environmental interference and generate accurate depth data, featuring a simple structure suitable for mass production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used for triangulation techniques, then depth data can be obtained, but the structure becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines color detection pixels and depth detection pixels into a single integrated pixel array. Each pixel unit integrates both color sensing functionality and depth detection capability through shared optical paths and processing circuits, eliminating the need for separate camera systems while maintaining depth measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pixel serves multiple functions: it detects color information through color detection pixels, captures depth information through depth detection pixels, and processes both types of data through shared circuitry. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized devices with a single universal sensor unit
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used for triangulation techniques, then depth data can be obtained, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging color detection and depth detection into a single pixel array with shared infrastructure (substrate, circuitry, processing units), the patent reduces component count and assembly complexity, leading to lower manufacturing costs while maintaining depth measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The universal pixel design that performs both color and depth detection functions allows for standardized mass production processes, reducing per-unit costs compared to assembling and calibrating multiple separate camera systems
3Device complexity
If color detection pixels and depth detection pixels are integrated, then the structure is simplified, but environmental interference may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel array into distinct color detection pixels and depth detection pixels, with dedicated optical paths and processing circuits for each type. This segmentation allows independent optimization and interference mitigation strategies for each detection mode while maintaining overall structural integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate processing layers and optical elements that mediate between the integrated pixels and external environment, filtering and conditioning optical signals to reduce environmental interference while preserving the simplified integrated structure
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
The solution effectively generates accurate depth data in high illumination environments while maintaining a cost-effective and simplified structure, enhancing the reliability and affordability of 3D imaging.
Implementation Method 1
Image sensors transform optical signals including image or depth data into electrical signals
Implementation Method 2
each of the plurality of the color detection pixels comprises: a first light condensing layer disposed over the photoelectric conversion layer
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes: a plurality of pixels that include a plurality of color detection pixels and a plurality of depth detection pixels, wherein the plurality of pixels are arranged in two dimensions; and a photoelectric conversion layer formed to correspond to the plurality of the pixels, wherein each of the plurality of the color detection pixels comprises: a first light condensing layer disposed over the photoelectric conversion layer; and a band pass filter layer interposed between the photoelectric conversion layer and the first light condensing layer, and wherein each of the plurality of the depth detection pixels comprises: a second light condensing layer disposed over the photoelectric conversion layer and having a greater size than a size of the first light condensing layer.