Imaging Element Pixel Layout for Higher Resolution and IR Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging elements face challenges in achieving higher resolution while maintaining image quality, particularly due to the arrangement of pixel groups which can lead to difficulties in achieving higher resolution and sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
The proposed imaging element employs a 'Quadra' arrangement of pixel groups with specific shifts in the x and y directions, allowing for a shorter pitch in both directions, and includes dummy regions for infrared detection or phase difference detection, enabling higher resolution and sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If pixel groups are arranged in a conventional Bayer arrangement, then the imaging element can be manufactured with standard structures, but the resolution and sensitivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by shifting the odd-numbered pixel groups (1st, 3rd, 5th, etc.) relative to even-numbered pixel groups in the row direction. This creates an asymmetric arrangement where adjacent pixel groups are offset by a predetermined distance, breaking the conventional symmetric Bayer pattern and enabling higher resolution through improved sampling distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the conventional two-dimensional Bayer arrangement by introducing controlled offsets in both the row and column directions. The asymmetric shifting creates a quasi-three-dimensional sampling pattern when projected onto the two-dimensional sensor plane, effectively utilizing additional spatial dimensions to improve resolution beyond what standard Bayer arrangements achieve.
2Measurement precision
If pixel groups are densely arranged to increase resolution, then measurement precision improves, but manufacturing complexity and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel array into distinct pixel groups (first, second, third, fourth pixel groups) with specific functional assignments. Each pixel group contains multiple pixels with dedicated color filters, and the segmentation allows for systematic asymmetric arrangement while maintaining manufacturability through modular design and standardized group structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dummy regions are added for infrared or phase difference detection, then detection capability is improved, but the area available for color detection pixels is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing pixel groups that can serve multiple purposes. The asymmetric arrangement and dummy regions are configured to enable both color imaging and auxiliary functions (infrared detection, phase difference detection, distance measurement) within the same sensor structure, allowing a single device to perform diverse detection tasks without requiring separate sensors.
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 allows for improved resolution in both the x and y directions, enhancing sensitivity and enabling detection of infrared light, phase differences, or distances, while maintaining image quality.
Implementation Method 1
The dummy region is an infrared detection region that detects infrared light
Implementation Method 2
The dummy region is a phase difference detection region that detects a phase difference
Implementation Method 3
The dummy region is a distance detection region that detects distance
Implementation Method 4
first photoelectric conversion regions; and at least one first color filter on the first photoelectric conversion regions
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a first pixel group including first photoelectric conversion regions, and at least one first color filter on the first photoelectric conversion regions. The imaging device includes a second pixel group including second photoelectric conversion regions, and at least one second color filter on the second photoelectric conversion regions. The imaging device includes a dummy region between the first pixel group and the second pixel group in a first direction so that a first side of the dummy region is adjacent to the first pixel group and a second side of the dummy region is adjacent to the second pixel group.