Image Sensor Pixel Layout for Lens-Dependent Focus Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors face a decline in focus detection accuracy when an interchangeable lens with a different exit pupil position is mounted, as the distance between the microlens and light blocking units is not optimally adjusted for varying lens configurations.
Innovation Solution
The image sensor design includes multiple pixel groups with focus detection pixels, each having light blocking units positioned differently relative to their microlenses to accommodate various exit pupil positions, ensuring optimal focus detection accuracy across different lens configurations by selecting the appropriate pixel group based on the lens information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the distance between microlens and light blocking unit is fixed for a specific exit pupil position, then focus detection accuracy is improved for that specific lens configuration, but focus detection accuracy deteriorates when an interchangeable lens with a different exit pupil position is mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is divided into multiple pixel groups, where each pixel group contains focus detection pixels with light blocking units positioned at different distances from their microlenses. This segmentation allows the system to have multiple fixed configurations within a single sensor, enabling adaptation to different lens types while maintaining high focus detection accuracy for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating pixel groups with different light blocking unit positions. The control unit selects which pixel group to use based on the mounted lens type, making the sensor universally compatible with various interchangeable lenses while maintaining optimal focus detection accuracy for each lens configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pixel groups with different light blocking unit positions are provided, then adaptability to different lens configurations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the image sensor (different pixel groups) are given different local qualities in terms of light blocking unit positioning. Each pixel group is optimized for a specific exit pupil position, creating local specialization that collectively provides universal adaptability without requiring a completely complex redesign of the entire sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic selection capability through the control unit, which automatically chooses the appropriate pixel group based on the mounted lens type. This dynamic adaptation allows the sensor to switch between different configurations without physical reconfiguration, managing complexity through software control rather than mechanical 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 design minimizes the reduction in focus detection accuracy even when using lenses with varying exit pupil positions, ensuring precise focus detection and improved subject tracking and identification performance.
Implementation Method 1
a first photoelectric conversion unit that photoelectrically converts light having entered therein
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes: a first pixel having a first photoelectric conversion unit that photoelectrically converts light having entered therein, and a first light blocking unit that blocks a part of light about to enter the first photoelectric conversion unit; and a second pixel having a second photoelectric conversion unit that photoelectrically converts light having entered therein and a second light blocking unit that blocks a part of light about to enter the second photoelectric conversion unit, wherein: the first photoelectric conversion unit and the first light blocking unit are set apart from each other by a distance different from a distance setting apart the second photoelectric conversion unit and the second light blocking unit.