Imaging Sensor Phase Difference Detection Area Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging sensors face challenges in setting a wide autofocus area and achieving precise focus detection across the entire image screen, particularly in detecting phase differences effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a 2-dimensionally arranged pixel configuration with specific areas for detecting horizontal and vertical phase differences, allowing for a large autofocus area and precise focus detection by determining the location of a main object and adjusting the lens accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If phase difference detection is implemented using imaging pixels, then autofocus capability is improved, but the autofocus area coverage and focus detection precision across the entire screen deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging sensor is divided into multiple independent phase difference detection areas, each with its own set of phase difference detection pixels. This segmentation allows different regions of the image sensor to independently perform phase difference detection, thereby expanding the overall autofocus area coverage while maintaining detection precision in each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
Phase difference detection pixels are arranged in both horizontal and vertical directions across the image sensor, transitioning from single-direction to multi-directional detection. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive phase difference detection across the entire screen, improving both autofocus area coverage and precision simultaneously.
2Area of stationary object
If phase difference detection pixels are distributed across the entire image sensor, then autofocus area is expanded, but manufacturing complexity and detection precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is divided into multiple independent phase difference detection areas, each with standardized pixel configurations. This segmentation reduces manufacturing complexity by allowing standardized production of each segment while collectively achieving broad autofocus area coverage through the assembly of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the image sensor are equipped with phase difference detection pixels according to local requirements. The center region and corner regions have different densities and configurations of detection pixels, optimizing both manufacturing feasibility and detection performance for each specific area.
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 enables a wide autofocus area and accurate focus detection throughout the image screen, improving the precision and efficiency of autofocus operations.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging sensor capable of detecting phase difference of focus
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device including 2-dimensionally arranged pixels for receiving light is provided. The imaging device includes a first area configured to detect a horizontal phase difference based on horizontal phase difference information obtained from pixels configured to detect the horizontal phase difference, a second area configured to detect a vertical phase difference based on vertical phase difference information obtained from pixels configured to detect the vertical phase difference, and a third area configured to detect horizontal and vertical phase differences based on horizontal phase difference information and vertical phase difference information obtained from pixels configured to detect the horizontal and vertical phase differences, wherein the first area is adjacent to a horizontal border of the third area, wherein the second area is adjacent to a vertical border of the third area, and wherein the third area is located at a center of the imaging device.