Image Sensor With Integrated Magnetic Lens Position Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of a magnetic sensor for lens position detection in conventional camera modules increases the size of the camera module, which is undesirable.

Innovation Solution

Integrating a magnetic detection unit within the image sensor itself, which includes a semiconductor substrate with photoelectric conversion elements and magnetic sensors to detect relative position changes with respect to the imaging lens.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a magnetic sensor is mounted as an independent component in the camera module for lens position detection, then the position detection function is achieved, but the size of the camera module increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelens position detectionVSAvoidcamera module size

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the magnetic sensor with the image sensor into a single integrated structure. The magnetic sensor is formed in the same semiconductor substrate as the image sensor, allowing both functions (imaging and position detection) to coexist in one component, thereby achieving lens position detection without increasing camera module size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves both as the primary imaging device and as a position detection device through its integrated magnetic sensing capability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated position detection components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If four Hall elements are used for detecting lens position in orthogonal directions, then comprehensive position detection is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition detection coverageVSAvoidmagnetic sensor configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple magnetic sensing functions are merged into a single integrated sensor chip. The image sensor substrate incorporates multiple magnetic sensors that can detect positions in different directions, combining what would traditionally require separate components into one unified device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 reduces the overall size of the camera module by incorporating the magnetic detection functionality within the image sensor, while maintaining optical shake correction capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic detection unit configured to detect a magnetic change according to a change in a relative position with respect to an imaging lens

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field detection: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

a semiconductor substrate in which a plurality of pixels each having a photoelectric conversion element is two-dimensionally arranged

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12581176B2Image sensor and imaging device

Publication Date: 2026.03.17 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP

AI summary

An image sensor according to the present technology includes: a semiconductor substrate in which a plurality of pixels each having a photoelectric conversion element is two-dimensionally arranged; and a magnetic detection unit configured to detect a magnetic change according to a change in a relative position with respect to an imaging lens that guides light from a subject to the pixels.