Solid-State Imaging Device Pixel Array for RGB CMY Luminance Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-state imaging devices cannot acquire RGB, CMY, and luminance information through a single imaging process.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state imaging device with a pixel array configuration where each pixel unit group includes specific color filters (R, C, G, M, B, and Y) arranged in a 2×2 matrix, allowing for the generation of RGB, CMY images, and luminance information through one imaging process, along with an optical lens and signal processing circuit for image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional Bayer array pixel configuration is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot acquire RGB, CMY, and luminance information through one imaging process
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is divided into pixel units, each containing multiple photoelectric conversion units with different color filters (R, G, B, C, M, Y). This segmentation allows each pixel unit to capture multiple color information simultaneously, enabling the acquisition of RGB, CMY, and luminance information through one imaging process while maintaining systematic organization
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel unit is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating photoelectric conversion units with complementary color filters (R/C, G/M, B/Y). This multi-functional design enables a single pixel unit to contribute to RGB image formation, CMY image formation, and luminance information acquisition simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Loss of information
If multiple imaging processes are used to acquire RGB, CMY, and luminance information, then comprehensive image information is obtained, but imaging time and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple imaging processes into a single imaging process. By arranging photoelectric conversion units with different color filters (R, G, B, C, M, Y) within the same pixel unit, the device can simultaneously capture data needed for RGB images, CMY images, and luminance information in one exposure, eliminating the need for sequential imaging processes and reducing imaging time
3Reliability
If binning processing is performed to improve SN ratio, then image SN ratio is enhanced, but image resolution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different processing methods for different regions or purposes. Within the same pixel unit, individual photoelectric conversion units can be processed independently or in combination. This enables selective binning for SN ratio improvement in specific conditions while maintaining full resolution capability when needed, as the raw data from each photoelectric conversion unit remains available for different processing modes
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 the capture of RGB, CMY images, and luminance information in a single process, improving image quality and color reproducibility, especially in low-light conditions, and allowing for high-resolution and high-SN ratio imaging.
Implementation Method 1
the pixel including a photoelectric conversion unit and a color filter formed to correspond to the photoelectric conversion unit
Implementation Method 2
an R filter transmitting red light and a C filter transmitting cyan light having a complementary color relation with the red light
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state imaging device capable of acquiring an RGB image, a CMY image, and luminance information through one imaging process. The solid-state imaging device includes a pixel array portion in which a plurality of pixel unit groups are arrayed, the pixel unit group including pixel units disposed in a 2×2 matrix, the pixel unit including pixels disposed in an 2×2 matrix, and the pixels including a photoelectric conversion unit and a color filter. Each of the pixel unit groups is configured such that an R filter and a C filter are included as the color filters in a first pixel unit among four pixel units constituting the pixel unit group, a G filter and an M filter are included as the color filters in each of second and third pixel units, and a B filter and a Y filter are included as the color filters in a fourth pixel unit.