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