Image Sensor Pixel Binning With Disparity Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image sensors suffer from disparity distortion due to varying light incidence on photoelectric conversion elements, leading to image quality degradation.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an image signal processor with a disparity correction unit to correct disparity distortion using disparity data generated from pattern images, and a method of binning pixels to enhance image resolution by averaging analog signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If multiple photoelectric conversion elements are used in each pixel, then light collection capability is improved, but disparity distortion increases due to varying light incidence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by capturing a pattern image at a known first distance and pre-calculating disparity data before processing the actual object image. This allows the disparity distortion to be corrected in advance, resolving the contradiction between using multiple photoelectric conversion elements for better light collection and the resulting disparity distortion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by comparing the pattern image data with the object image data and adjusting the disparity correction based on the difference between them. This feedback mechanism enables precise correction of disparity distortion while maintaining the benefits of multiple photoelectric conversion elements.
2Manufacturing precision
If disparity correction is performed using pattern image data, then image quality is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing and processing pattern image data first to generate disparity correction information, which is then applied to subsequent object image data. This separates the time-consuming disparity calculation from the actual image capture, improving overall processing efficiency while maintaining high image quality.
3Measurement precision
If binning pixels is performed to enhance resolution, then image resolution is improved, but disparity distortion correction becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pixel array into multiple binning windows, each containing multiple pixels that are processed independently. This segmentation allows the disparity correction to be applied to smaller, more manageable units, reducing the overall complexity while maintaining enhanced resolution through pixel binning.
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
The solution effectively reduces disparity distortion and enhances image resolution by correcting pixel value discrepancies, resulting in improved image quality.
Implementation Method 1
each of the pixels including at least a first photoelectric conversion element and a second photoelectric conversion element
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor comprising a pixel array including a plurality of pixels, each of the plurality of pixels including a first photoelectric conversion element and a second photoelectric conversion element, a microlens on the first and second photoelectric conversion elements, wherein each of the plurality of pixels is configured to generate an output signal; and a disparity processor configured to generate a disparity of the output signal. The disparity represents a difference between first pixel values of a first sub output signal and second pixel values of a second sub output signal, the first sub output signal being associated with the first photoelectric conversion element of the output signal and the second sub output signal being associated with the second photoelectric conversion element of the output signal, and the first sub output signal and the second sub output signal are combined to be generated as the output signal.