17963612. IMAGE SENSOR AND IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
IMAGE SENSOR AND IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
IMAGE SENSOR AND IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17963612 titled 'IMAGE SENSOR AND IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS
Simplified Explanation
The abstract describes an image sensor with various components and functionalities. It includes a pixel portion with multiple unit pixels arranged in a matrix, each having a micro lens and photoelectric conversion portions. There is a signal readout portion that converts the accumulated signals in the photoelectric conversion portions to digital signals. A signal processor processes the read signals, with an image capture signal processor generating a captured image and a focus detection signal processor performing focus detection. Finally, an output portion outputs the processed signals.
- The image sensor has a pixel portion with unit pixels arranged in a matrix.
- Each unit pixel includes a micro lens and photoelectric conversion portions.
- The signal readout portion converts accumulated signals to digital signals.
- The signal processor includes an image capture signal processor and a focus detection signal processor.
- The image capture signal processor generates a captured image.
- The focus detection signal processor performs focus detection.
- The output portion outputs the processed signals.
Potential Applications
This technology can have various applications in the field of imaging and photography, including:
- Digital cameras
- Smartphones and mobile devices with cameras
- Surveillance systems
- Medical imaging devices
- Industrial inspection and quality control systems
Problems Solved
The image sensor addresses several challenges in imaging technology, such as:
- Accurate focus detection for capturing sharp images
- Efficient signal processing for generating high-quality images
- Compact and integrated design for easy integration into various devices
- Improved sensitivity and performance of photoelectric conversion
Benefits
The use of this image sensor offers several benefits, including:
- Enhanced image quality with accurate focus detection
- Efficient signal processing for faster image capture
- Compact and integrated design for space-saving and versatile applications
- Improved sensitivity and performance in low-light conditions
- Compatibility with various imaging devices and systems.
Original Abstract Submitted
An image sensor includes a pixel portion in which a plurality of unit pixels each having one micro lens and a plurality of photoelectric conversion portions are arrayed in a matrix, a signal readout portion that reads out signals accumulated in the photoelectric conversion portions and converts the read signals to digital signals, a signal processor that processes signals read out by the signal readout portion and has an image capture signal processor that performs signal processing for generating a captured image on signals read out by the signal readout portion and a focus detection signal processor that performs signal processing for focus detection on signals read out by the signal readout portion, and an output portion that outputs signals processed by the signal processor.
