Image Sensor Sub-Pixel Array Segmentation for Phase Detection Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image sensing devices with phase detection pixels often produce pixel values that deviate from the original image values due to the integration of phase detection functionality, leading to inaccuracies in image processing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an image sensing device with separate sub-pixel arrays for imaging and phase detection pixels, along with an image processor that combines and processes pixel values to generate accurate image values by compensating for phase detection pixel values using correction values derived from surrounding image pixel values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If phase detection pixels are integrated with image pixels in the same pixel array, then phase detection functionality is achieved, but pixel values deviate from original image values leading to processing inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into separate first pixel array (image pixels only) and second pixel array (phase detection pixels only). This segmentation allows each array to perform its dedicated function without interference, resolving the contradiction between achieving phase detection versatility and maintaining pixel value accuracy for image processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary that receives pixel signals from both arrays, generates corresponding pixel values, and performs compensation processing. It uses pixel values from the first array to compensate for phase detection pixel values in the second array, thereby maintaining measurement precision while enabling phase detection functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If phase detection pixels are mixed with image pixels, then phase detection capability is provided, but light leakage occurs between phase detection and imaging pixels
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the pixel array into separate first and second pixel arrays, the patent prevents light leakage between phase detection and imaging pixels. The physical separation eliminates the harmful light leakage effect while maintaining both imaging and phase detection capabilities through independent array operation.
3Measurement precision
If separate sub-pixel arrays are used for imaging and phase detection, then pixel value accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate imaging and phase detection systems into a single integrated image sensing device with coordinated pixel arrays. While the structure is more complex, the integration allows both functions to operate within one unified system, managing the complexity through shared control and processing architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor implements feedback by using pixel values from the first pixel array to compensate for and correct values from the second pixel array. This feedback mechanism maintains high measurement precision while managing system complexity through intelligent signal processing rather than requiring completely separate independent systems.
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 approach generates image values that are closer to the original image, improving the accuracy of image processing and reducing unwanted light leakage between phase detection and imaging pixels.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of first pixels each converting light into a pixel signal... a plurality of second pixels each converting light into a pixel signal
Implementation Method 2
including a first color filter to allow light of a first color to be received by each first pixel... including a second, different color filter to allow light of a second color to be received by each second pixel
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensing device includes an image sensor including a first sub-pixel array and a second sub-pixel array. The first sub-pixel array includes a plurality of first pixels having a first color filter, and the second sub-pixel array includes a plurality of second pixels having a second color filter and a plurality of third pixels for phase detection. The image sensor may generate first pixel values from the first pixels, second pixel values from the second pixels and third pixel values from the third pixels. The image sensing device also includes an image processor suitable for generating a first image value corresponding to the first sub-pixel array based on the first pixel values and generating a second image value corresponding to the second sub-pixel array based on the first to third pixel values.