Optical Splitter Camera Module for Precise Autofocus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices with folded camera modules face challenges in achieving high pixel density and precise auto focus due to restrictions on image sensor size and resolution, particularly with 2PD image sensors.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device incorporates a camera module with a lens part, a first image sensor with 2PD pixels for red and blue colors, a second image sensor with single PD pixels for green color, and an optical splitter to separate and combine image signals, enhancing sensitivity and low illumination performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a 2PD image sensor is used to perform precise auto focus, then auto focus precision is improved, but pixel density cannot be increased in the same area

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauto focus precisionVSAvoidpixel density

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the imaging function into two separate sensors: a first image sensor with 2PD pixels for precise auto focus measurement, and a second image sensor with single PD pixels for high-resolution color imaging. This segmentation allows each sensor to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between auto focus precision and pixel density.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional imaging system where the first image sensor handles both color imaging and precise auto focus measurement simultaneously through its 2PD pixels, while the second image sensor provides supplemental color information. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve both high pixel density and precise auto focus without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Volume of moving object

If image sensor size is restricted to reduce camera module thickness, then device compactness is improved, but resolution and optical performance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera module thicknessVSAvoidresolution

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the imaging task between two sensors with different characteristics: the first image sensor with larger pixels for precise auto focus and the second image sensor with smaller pixels for high resolution. This allows the system to maintain compact thickness while achieving both resolution and auto focus precision through coordinated operation of the two sensors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the capabilities of two different image sensors into a single camera module, combining the auto focus measurement function of the 2PD sensor with the high-resolution color imaging function of the single PD sensor. This merging allows the system to achieve superior overall performance while maintaining compact form factor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If single color sensor sensitivity is increased, then low illumination performance is improved, but color accuracy and resolution may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelow illumination performanceVSAvoidcolor accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments color capture across two sensors: the first image sensor with 2PD pixels captures color information with higher sensitivity for low illumination conditions, while the second image sensor with single PD pixels captures color information with high resolution. This segmentation allows each sensor to be optimized for its strength without compromising overall color accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different sensor characteristics to different functional requirements: the first image sensor uses 2PD pixels with higher sensitivity for low illumination performance, while the second image sensor uses single PD pixels with higher resolution for color accuracy. This local quality optimization ensures that each sensor's strengths are utilized where most needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 precise auto focus without resolution deterioration by separating and synthesizing image signals, increasing sensitivity and improving low illumination performance.

Implementation Method 1

an optical splitter to separate and combine image signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical splitting: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

each pixel of the plurality of pixels including two photo diodes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12407924B2Electronic device including camera for obtaining different image data from a plurality of image sensors using an optical splitter

Publication Date: 2025.09.02 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

An electronic device according to an embodiment includes a camera module, a memory, and a processor. The camera module includes a lens part, a first image sensor, a second image sensor, and an optical splitter. The optical splitter provides a first portion of light introduced through the lens part to the first image sensor and provides a second portion of the light introduced through the lens part to the second image sensor. The processor combines first image data obtained based on the first image sensor and second image data obtained based on the second image sensor to generate third image data and performs a specified function.