Image sensor with asymmetric-microlens phase-detection auto-focus (PDAF) detectors, associated PDAF imaging system, and associated method
US10015389B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 22, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jul 3, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N25/704
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A PDAF imaging system includes an image sensor and an image data processing unit. The image sensor has an asymmetric-microlens PDAF detector that includes: (a) a plurality of pixels forming a sub-array having at least two rows and two columns, and (b) a microlens located above each of the plurality of pixels and being rotationally asymmetric about an axis perpendicular to the sub-array. The axis intersects a local extremum of a top surface of the microlens. The image data processing unit is capable of receiving electrical signals from each of the plurality of pixels and generating a PDAF signal from the received electrical signals. A method for forming a gull-wing microlens includes forming, on a substrate, a plate having a hole therein. The method also includes reflowing the plate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.