imaging system

Abstract

An imaging system is disclosed that may include an image sensor with a phase detection pixel set for depth sensing or autofocus operations. Each phase detection pixel group may have two or more photosensitive regions covered by a single microlens such that each photosensitive region has an asymmetric angular response. The imaging system may use image data from the set of phase detection pixels to determine the phase difference. Alternatively, in order to improve the accuracy, the imaging system can use two different aperture sizes to obtain two sets of image data. The phase difference associated with each aperture size can be determined. The difference between the two phase differences can be determined and used as a more accurate measure for depth sensing or autofocus operation.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to imaging systems, and more particularly to imaging systems with phase detection capabilities. Background technique [0002] Modern electronic devices such as mobile phones, cameras and computers often use digital image sensors. Imaging sensors (sometimes referred to as imagers) may be formed from two-dimensional arrays of image sensing pixels. Each pixel receives incident photons (light) and converts these photons into electrical signals. Sometimes image sensors are designed to provide images to electronic devices using the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) format. [0003] Some applications, such as autofocus and three-dimensional (3D) imaging, may require electronic devices to provide stereo and / or depth sensing capabilities. For example, in order to bring an object of interest into focus in order to capture an image, the electronic device may need to identify the distance between the electronic devi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

This can lead to inaccurate depth calculations

Images