Image Sensor Pixel Wavelength Spectrum Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital cameras face challenges in accurately detecting the wavelength spectrum of incident light, which affects auto white balance (AWB) adjustments, as they rely on limited pixel configurations and lack precise methods to differentiate between various light sources.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device equipped with an image sensor featuring multiple photodetectors in each unit pixel, allowing for accurate detection of the wavelength spectrum by calculating specific parameters from output values, and applying white balance corrections based on determined light source types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional digital cameras use limited pixel configurations, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of wavelength spectrum deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments each unit pixel into multiple photodetectors (e.g., first and second photodetectors) with different spectral sensitivity characteristics. This segmentation allows the system to measure different wavelength components simultaneously within each pixel, improving wavelength spectrum detection accuracy without requiring a complex external spectrometer system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the image sensor multi-functional by enabling it to perform both standard color imaging and wavelength spectrum detection using the same hardware structure. The multiple photodetectors in each unit pixel can detect different wavelength components, allowing the single device to serve multiple purposes: capturing color information and analyzing spectral characteristics of light sources.
2Measurement precision
If conventional cameras rely on limited pixel configurations, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but auto white balance accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spectral sensitivity parameters of photodetectors within each unit pixel to have different characteristics (e.g., first photodetector sensitive to certain wavelength ranges, second photodetector sensitive to other ranges). This parameter differentiation enables the system to distinguish between various light sources and achieve accurate auto white balance by analyzing the spectral distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the processor analyzes output signals from multiple photodetectors, calculates wavelength spectrum information, and uses this information to adjust white balance settings. This closed-loop feedback system continuously optimizes color accuracy based on detected spectral characteristics of the illuminating light source.
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 enables precise AWB adjustments by accurately detecting the wavelength spectrum, improving image quality by correctly accounting for different light sources and enhancing color accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a first photodetector and a second photodetector, each outputting a first electrical signal and a second electrical signal, respectively, in response to the incident light
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and electronic device for detecting a wavelength spectrum of incident light. The electronic device includes an image sensor including a pixel array, wherein the pixel array includes a unit pixel including a micro lens configured to focus incident light, and two or more photodetectors configured to output an electrical signal in response to the incident light; and a processor configured to detect a wavelength spectrum of the incident light based on output values from the two or more photodetectors.