Microlens Image Sensor Layout for Real-Time Stray Light Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cameras suffer from aberrations such as veiling glare and lens flare due to internal reflections and imperfections in the optics, which can degrade image quality and affect object identification in computer vision applications.
Innovation Solution
The use of microlenses positioned over subsets of light-sensitive pixels on the image sensor allows for the detection of stray light by determining the angle of incidence of incoming light signals, enabling identification of stray light and potential corrections to compensate for it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microlenses are positioned over light-sensitive pixels to detect stray light, then measurement precision of stray light angle is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is divided into two distinct subsets: first light-sensitive pixels for capturing the primary image and second light-sensitive pixels for detecting stray light. Each subset has dedicated microlenses optimized for its specific function, allowing independent optimization without interfering with the other function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the image sensor are assigned different functions with specialized optical elements. The first subset of pixels uses microlenses optimized for image capture, while the second subset uses microlenses configured for stray light detection at specific angles, enabling localized optimization of optical properties.
2Reliability
If dedicated stray light detection pixels are added, then stray light detection capability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented into functionally distinct groups during manufacturing, with separate photolithography patterns for first and second light-sensitive pixels. This segmentation allows independent fabrication processes optimized for each pixel type's specific requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The relative positions and orientations of microlenses over the second light-sensitive pixels are predetermined and pre-configured during manufacturing to detect stray light at specific angles. This preliminary configuration ensures that the optical path is correctly established before the camera is assembled and used.
3Measurement precision
If microlenses are used to determine angle of incidence, then stray light identification accuracy is improved, but loss of information increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segregating stray light detection to a dedicated subset of pixels, the primary image capture function remains intact on the first subset of pixels. The segmentation ensures that information needed for image reconstruction is preserved while separate information for stray light characterization is obtained.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor achieves multi-functionality by simultaneously performing primary image capture and stray light detection using different pixel subsets. This allows the same sensor to provide both the image data needed for reconstruction and the angular information needed for stray light identification.
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 enhances image quality by effectively identifying and mitigating stray light, improving object identification in computer vision applications and reducing aberrations in captured images.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens positioned over a first subset of light-sensitive pixels selected from the plurality of light-sensitive pixels
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor that includes a plurality of light-sensitive pixels
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments relate to microlensing for real-time sensing of stray light. An example device includes an image sensor that includes a plurality of light-sensitive pixels. The device also includes a first lens positioned over a first subset of light-sensitive pixels selected from the plurality of light-sensitive pixels. Further, the device includes a controller. The controller is configured to determine a first angle of incidence of a first light signal detected by the first subset of light-sensitive pixels. The controller is also configured to, based on the first determined angle of incidence, determine an amount of stray light incident on the image sensor.