Imaging Device Phase Difference Detection Eccentric Aperture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices with phase difference detection pixels suffer from reduced image quality due to the addition of separate phase difference detection pixels, which limits phase difference detection to specific areas and results in defects, leading to inconsistent outputs compared to other pixels.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device configuration where phase difference detection is performed using entire pixels, with optical apertures eccentrically positioned to include or exclude the optical axis, allowing for focal point and direction information to be obtained without additional pixels, utilizing micro lenses, photoelectric conversion units, and optical apertures with light shielding masks or wire layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phase difference detection pixels are added between imaging pixels, then phase difference detection capability is improved, but image quality deteriorates and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes imaging pixels perform dual functions: both image capture and phase difference detection. By configuring optical apertures with different aperture ratios within the same pixel structure, imaging pixels can function as both imaging elements and phase difference detection elements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated phase difference detection pixels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of imaging pixels and phase difference detection pixels into a single unified structure. By using the same pixel array for both purposes through optical aperture configuration, the patent combines what were previously separate functional elements into one integrated system.
2Measurement precision
If phase difference detection pixels are added, then phase difference detection capability is improved, but the number of pixels and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes imaging pixels perform dual functions: both image capture and phase difference detection. By configuring optical apertures with different aperture ratios within the same pixel structure, imaging pixels can function as both imaging elements and phase difference detection elements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated phase difference detection pixels.
3Measurement precision
If separate phase difference detection pixels are used, then phase difference detection is enabled, but output consistency with imaging pixels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring optical apertures with different aperture ratios within the same pixel structure. By adjusting the aperture ratio locally within each pixel, the system achieves both imaging and phase difference detection functions with consistent output characteristics, as the same pixel structure produces both functions.
4Measurement precision
If phase difference detection is limited to specific areas, then detection accuracy is improved, but adaptability and coverage area deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes imaging pixels perform dual functions: both image capture and phase difference detection. By configuring optical apertures with different aperture ratios within the same pixel structure, imaging pixels can function as both imaging elements and phase difference detection elements across the entire array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical aperture into different regions with different aperture ratios within the same pixel structure. This segmentation allows a single pixel to function differently for imaging and phase difference detection, enabling full-array coverage without sacrificing detection accuracy.
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
Enables phase difference detection across the entire imaging surface, improving image quality by eliminating the need for additional pixels and reducing defects, thereby enhancing focal point detection accuracy and image capture capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion unit positioned below the micro lens
Implementation Method 2
The optical aperture may include a light shielding mask.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes phase difference detection pixels. The imaging device receives an image formed by an optical system and includes a plurality of pixels that are two-dimensionally arranged. Each of the plurality of pixels include a micro lens; a photoelectric conversion unit positioned below the micro lens; and an optical aperture disposed between the micro lens and the photoelectric conversion unit and that is eccentric with respect to an optical axis of the micro lens, wherein the plurality of pixels of the imaging device output a signal for obtaining phase difference. The imaging device performs phase difference detection on the entire surface of a captured image without addition of pixels.