Solid-State Imaging Device Multi-Substrate Focus Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid-state imaging devices require separate sensors for focus detection, leading to a complex camera system configuration and potential decline in imaging signal resolution.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device with multiple substrates, where at least one substrate has a selector that controls the angle of light transmission between photoelectric conversion units, allowing for integrated focus detection without additional sensors, using wiring lines with opening portions to selectively transmit light and shield unwanted light, thereby simplifying the camera system configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors are used for focus detection, then focus detection function is achieved, but device complexity increases and imaging signal resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging function and focus detection function into a single integrated system. The same pixel array serves dual purposes: capturing imaging signals and detecting focus information through phase difference measurement. This eliminates the need for separate focus detection sensors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining focus detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel array is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously. It acts as both the imaging sensor for capturing optical images and the focus detection sensor for measuring phase differences. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to achieve focus detection without adding separate specialized sensors, thus simplifying the overall camera system configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors are used for focus detection, then focus detection function is achieved, but imaging signal resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By combining imaging and focus detection functions into the same pixel array, the patent ensures that the imaging signal resolution is not compromised. The selector mechanism directs light appropriately to the same high-resolution pixel array for both imaging and focus detection purposes, maintaining the full resolution capability for imaging while enabling focus detection through phase difference measurement.
3Device complexity
If wiring lines are used as selectors, then device complexity is reduced, but light shielding capability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring lines in the semiconductor substrate are designed to serve dual functions: electrical signal transmission and optical light shielding. By utilizing the existing wiring structure for both purposes, the patent eliminates the need for separate selector components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining effective light shielding capability through the inherent properties of the wiring materials.
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 enables focus detection using the same pixel array as imaging, reducing equipment complexity and maintaining imaging signal resolution, while improving the signal-to-noise ratio for focus detection signals.
Implementation Method 1
CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type or amplified solid-state imaging devices are used for these cameras. The amplified solid-state imaging devices guide signal charges, which are generated and accumulated by photoelectric conversion units of pixels that light enters
Data Source
AI summary
A first substrate has a plurality of photoelectric conversion units. A second substrate has through vias connected to the first substrate, and a plurality of photoelectric conversion units. A third substrate has vias connected to the second substrate, and a circuit that processes a signal. Wiring lines of the first substrate select the angle of a light ray that is transmitted through the first substrate and enters the second substrate.