17812487. IMAGE SENSOR simplified abstract (Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.)
Contents
IMAGE SENSOR
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Taehan Kim of Hwaseong-si (KR)
Bumsuk Kim of Hwaseong-si (KR)
Kwanghee Lee of Hwaseong-si (KR)
IMAGE SENSOR - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17812487 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR
Simplified Explanation
The patent application describes an image sensor with a pixel array that includes both normal pixels and autofocus (AF) pixels. The AF pixels are used to provide autofocus functionality by utilizing the phase difference between pixel signals obtained from each AF pixel. Each AF pixel consists of a single AF lens placed on a pair of pixel areas. The AF lens of the AF pixel located away from the center of the pixel array may have a larger area compared to the AF lens of the AF pixel adjacent to the center.
- The image sensor includes both normal pixels and autofocus (AF) pixels.
- The AF pixels are used for autofocus functionality by analyzing the phase difference between their pixel signals.
- Each AF pixel has a single AF lens placed on a pair of pixel areas.
- The AF lens of the AF pixel located away from the center of the pixel array may have a larger area than the AF lens of the AF pixel adjacent to the center.
Potential Applications
This technology can be applied in various imaging devices, such as digital cameras, smartphones, and surveillance systems, where autofocus functionality is required.
Problems Solved
1. Accurate autofocus: By utilizing the phase difference between pixel signals from AF pixels, this technology enables precise autofocus functionality. 2. Improved image quality: The use of AF pixels allows for better focus adjustment, resulting in sharper and clearer images.
Benefits
1. Enhanced autofocus performance: The phase difference analysis between AF pixels improves the accuracy and speed of autofocus, ensuring sharp and focused images. 2. Compact design: By integrating AF functionality into the image sensor itself, the need for separate autofocus modules or mechanisms is eliminated, leading to smaller and more compact imaging devices. 3. Improved image quality: The precise autofocus provided by this technology ensures that images are properly focused, resulting in higher quality and more professional-looking photographs.
Original Abstract Submitted
An image sensor includes a pixel array in which a plurality of normal pixels and a plurality of autofocus (AF) pixels are disposed, and a logic circuit. The logic circuit provides an autofocus function using a phase difference between pixel signals obtained from each of the plurality of AF pixels. Each of the AF pixels includes a single AF lens disposed on a pair of pixel areas. An AF lens of the AF pixel spaced apart from a center of the pixel array may have an area larger than an area of the AF lens of the AF pixel adjacent to the center.
