Polarization Pixel Array Layout for Uniform Extinction Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing polarization cameras face issues with non-uniform polarization performance, leading to degraded image quality due to inconsistent extinction ratios across the sensor, which affects object identification and foreign object detection.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a pixel array unit with a polarization member arranged in a lattice pattern, where the orientation angle of the polarization member varies depending on the position, and a wire grid polarization member formed in a curved shape, both integrated with a photoelectric conversion unit to enhance polarization uniformity and maintain the crossed-Nicols state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a polarization filter is mounted on a sensor to acquire polarization information, then polarization information can be acquired for object identification and foreign object detection, but the image height of the sensor degrades polarization performance (extinction ratio) and the polarization performance becomes non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the orientation angle of polarization members according to their position in the pixel array unit. Specifically, pixels at different image heights (central region vs. peripheral regions) are assigned different polarization orientation angles to compensate for the degradation caused by oblique light incidence at the periphery. This position-dependent orientation adjustment ensures uniform polarization performance across the entire sensor surface.
2Manufacturing precision
If the orientation angle of the polarization member is varied depending on position to uniformize polarization performance, then polarization performance uniformity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel array unit into different regions (central region and peripheral regions) and assigns different polarization orientation angles to each region. This segmentation approach simplifies the overall configuration by dividing the complex position-dependent orientation variation into manageable regional zones, making the device easier to manufacture while maintaining uniform polarization performance.
3Reliability
If a wire grid is formed in a curved shape to maintain the crossed-Nicols state, then polarization performance is maintained, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curvature by forming the wire grid in a curved shape that corresponds to the image height of the sensor. This curved configuration allows the wire grid to maintain the crossed-Nicols state across the entire sensor surface, including peripheral regions where oblique light incidence would otherwise degrade polarization performance. The curvature compensates for the angular deviation of light rays from the optical axis.
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 ensures uniform polarization performance across the sensor, preventing light leakage and maintaining high extinction ratios, thereby improving object identification and foreign object detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a pixel array unit in which a pixel, which includes a polarization member having a polarization direction
Implementation Method 2
a photoelectric conversion unit configured to receive light transmitted through the polarization member
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to an imaging element capable of keeping uniformity of an extinction ratio in a plane, and an electronic apparatus. Provided is a pixel array unit in which a pixel, which includes a polarization member having a polarization direction, and a photoelectric conversion unit configured to receive light transmitted through the polarization member, is disposed in a row direction and a column direction to form a lattice pattern, and an orientation angle of the polarization member varies depending on a position of the pixel array unit. Provided are a polarization member formed by a wire grid having a polarization direction, and a photoelectric conversion unit configured to receive light transmitted through the polarization member, and the wire grid is formed in a curved shape. The present technology can be applied to, for example, an imaging element that acquires polarization information.