Imaging Sensor Crosstalk Correction for Focus Detection Pixels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The quality of images near focus detection pixels in imaging apparatuses degrades due to interpolation processing, primarily caused by crosstalk from focus detection pixels to imaging pixels, which varies based on the position and type of nearby pixels.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with an image sensor that includes both imaging and focus detection pixels, featuring a correction unit that adjusts image data from imaging pixels based on output from nearby focus detection pixels, accounting for differences in crosstalk effects and spectral sensitivity, and an interpolation unit that generates image data at focus detection pixel positions using corrected imaging pixel data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image data are generated through pixel interpolation processing, then image data at focus detection pixel positions can be obtained, but the quality of the image in the vicinity of the focus detection pixels degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing crosstalk correction on imaging pixel data before interpolation processing. The correction unit corrects image data from imaging pixels adjacent to focus detection pixels by compensating for crosstalk effects in advance, so that when interpolation is subsequently performed, the generated image data at focus detection pixel positions maintains high quality without degradation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If focus detection pixels are arrayed among imaging pixels in the image sensor, then both imaging function and focus detection function are fulfilled, but crosstalk from focus detection pixels to imaging pixels causes image quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful crosstalk effect into a beneficial correction opportunity. By detecting and measuring the crosstalk from focus detection pixels to adjacent imaging pixels, the system calculates correction values that compensate for this interference. The correction unit then applies these corrections to recover the true image data, effectively transforming the harmful crosstalk into a quantifiable and correctable phenomenon.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary correction unit between the image sensor and the interpolation processing stage. This correction unit acts as a mediator that receives raw data from both imaging pixels and focus detection pixels, corrects the crosstalk contamination in imaging pixel data using information from focus detection pixels, and outputs corrected data for subsequent interpolation and image generation.
3Measurement precision
If correction is applied to image data from imaging pixels based on focus detection pixel output, then image quality near focus detection pixels is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing correction only for imaging pixels that are adjacent to focus detection pixels, rather than uniformly correcting all imaging pixels. The correction unit identifies which imaging pixels are affected by crosstalk from nearby focus detection pixels and applies correction selectively to those specific locations, leaving other areas unchanged. This localized approach improves image quality where needed while minimizing additional processing complexity.
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
Improves image quality by accurately accounting for crosstalk and spectral sensitivity differences, leading to enhanced image data generation at focus detection pixel positions and overall improved image fidelity.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor with imaging pixels and focus detection pixels arrayed on a plane, which captures an image via an optical system
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes: an image sensor with imaging pixels and focus detection pixels arrayed on a plane, which captures an image via an optical system; and a correction unit that corrects image data output from an imaging pixel based upon output data from a focus detection pixel present near the imaging pixel.