Image Sensor Pixel Layout for Phase Detection Without Aliasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging technologies, such as those using CMOS sensors, face image quality degradation when configuring any pixel as a dedicated functional pixel for obtaining information different from a normal image, leading to issues like local aliasing.
Innovation Solution
A solid state image sensor design that includes normal pixels and functional pixels, arranged symmetrically within color subblocks in a Bayer array or similar color arrays, where functional pixels can capture images with different exposure durations or sensitivities, and phase difference detection pixels are used to adjust focus, while also incorporating black or white pixels for signal adjustment and filtering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If any pixel in the pixel array is configured as a dedicated functional pixel for obtaining desired information, then information different from a normal image can be obtained, but image quality degradation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into multiple blocks, and within each block, pixels are further divided into color units with identical colors. This segmentation allows functional pixels to be distributed across multiple blocks rather than concentrated in one location, reducing the impact on overall image quality while maintaining the desired functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making pixels within the same color unit have identical colors and arranging normal pixels symmetrically within subblocks. This ensures that local regions maintain consistent optical properties, reducing artifacts and image quality degradation while allowing functional pixels to be integrated into the array.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a phase difference detection pixel is arranged in a block of green pixels, then phase difference detection function is achieved, but local aliasing affects image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The green pixel blocks are segmented into color units with identical colors, and phase difference detection pixels are distributed across multiple such units rather than concentrated in one block. This segmentation approach reduces local aliasing effects while maintaining the phase difference detection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangement strategies where phase difference detection pixels are positioned at specific locations within color units rather than using symmetric patterns. This asymmetric placement helps reduce regular artifacts and local aliasing that would occur with symmetric arrangements.
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 effectively suppresses image quality degradation by allowing functional pixels to operate within the image sensor's framework, maintaining image quality even when configured for specific tasks like phase difference detection, and enhancing focus control and signal processing.
Implementation Method 1
a photodiode 352 that photoelectrically converts the light 353
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a solid state image sensor and electronic equipment that enable degradation in image quality of a captured image to be suppressed even if any pixel in a pixel array is configured as a functional pixel for obtaining desired information in order to obtain information different from a normal image. In a plurality of pixels constituting subblocks provided in an RGB Bayer array constituting a block which is a set of color units, normal pixels that capture a normal image are arranged longitudinally and laterally symmetrically within the subblock, and functional pixels for obtaining desired information other than capturing an image are arranged at the remaining positions. The present disclosure can be applied to a solid state image sensor.