Image Sensor Pixel Array for Multi-Mode Smartphone Photography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors in smartphones face challenges in achieving multiple shooting modes without increasing costs, leading to reduced photosensitivity, dynamic range, and poor image quality due to software processing, especially in dark environments, and the need for multiple camera modules.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor with a pixel array comprising first pixel units that capture multiple colors and second pixel units that capture single colors, with separate control of their working states, allowing for various shooting modes and reducing the number of camera modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera modules are installed to demonstrate shooting capabilities, then shooting functions are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is designed to perform multiple shooting functions (wide-angle, portrait zoom, ultra-wide-angle, ultra-long zoom) through a single sensor by utilizing different pixel units and their respective photosensitive elements, eliminating the need for multiple separate camera modules
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple camera modules are merged into a single image sensor by integrating different types of pixel units (first pixel units with stacked photosensitive elements for multiple colors, second pixel units for single color) that can be selectively activated to achieve different shooting modes
2Quantity of substance
If a four-in-one sensor is used to increase pixel number, then pixel quantity is improved, but photosensitivity and image quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the sensor are assigned different functions: first pixel units with stacked photosensitive elements are used for high-resolution digital zoom in specific regions, while second pixel units are used for other areas, allowing each region to optimize for its specific purpose rather than uniformly reducing pixel size across the entire sensor
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 enables better digital zoom effects and higher-quality images across multiple shooting modes while minimizing the number of camera modules, thereby reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
each first pixel unit includes photosensitive elements stacked and configured to acquire photo signals of at least two colors
Implementation Method 2
each second pixel unit includes photosensitive elements configured to acquire photo signals of a single color
Data Source
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AI summary
This application discloses an image sensor, a camera module, an electronic device, and a shooting method. The image sensor includes a pixel array, and the pixel array includes a first number of first pixel units and a second number of second pixel units, where the first pixel unit includes photosensitive elements stacked and configured to acquire photo signals of at least two colors, and the second pixel unit includes photosensitive elements configured to acquire photo signals of a single color.