18074907. ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF simplified abstract (SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.)

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ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF

Organization Name

SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.

Inventor(s)

Inah Moon of Gyeonggi-do (KR)

Jaehyoung Park of Gyeonggi-do (KR)

Shuichi Shimokawa of Gyeonggi-do (KR)

Yeotak Youn of Gyeonggi-do (KR)

Kawang Kang of Gyeonggi-do (KR)

Dongsoo Kim of Gyeonggi-do (KR)

ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18074907 titled 'ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING IMAGE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a method and electronic device for performing analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) in an image sensor. The method involves reading out different groups of photodiodes (PDs) in different directions to detect phase differences.

  • The method involves performing three ADCs in different directions to detect phase differences.
  • In the first ADC, two adjacent PD groups are read out in a first direction.
  • In the second ADC, a third PD group adjacent to the first PD group is read out in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.
  • In the third ADC, a fourth PD group adjacent to the second PD group is read out in the second direction.
  • Based on the ADC readings, the method detects phase differences in both the first and second directions.

Potential Applications

  • This technology can be applied in image sensors used in digital cameras, smartphones, and other electronic devices.
  • It can improve the accuracy of image capturing and processing, leading to better image quality and enhanced features like autofocus and image stabilization.

Problems Solved

  • Traditional image sensors may suffer from phase differences, resulting in image distortion or blurring.
  • This technology solves the problem of phase differences by detecting them in different directions and compensating for them during image processing.

Benefits

  • The method provides a more accurate and reliable way to detect and compensate for phase differences in image sensors.
  • It improves the overall image quality by reducing distortion and blurring caused by phase differences.
  • The technology enables the implementation of advanced features like autofocus and image stabilization, enhancing the user experience in digital cameras and smartphones.


Original Abstract Submitted

A method and an electronic device are provided in which, in a first unit pixel of an image sensor, a first analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) is performed by reading out a first photodiode (PD) group and a second PD group that is adjacent to the first PD group in a first direction. A second ADC is performed by reading out a third PD group that is adjacent to the first PD group in a second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. A third ADC is performed by reading out a fourth PD group that is adjacent to the second PD group in the second direction. A first phase difference in the second direction is detected based on the first ADC, the second ADC, and the third ADC. A second phase difference in the first direction is detected based on the second ADC and the third ADC.