Image sensors with optically black pixels
US10165211B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2017 |
| Grant date | Dec 25, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH10F39/8063
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An image sensor may include optically black pixels for obtaining dark current measurements. The image sensor may include dummy pixels between the active pixel array and the optically black pixels. Light incident upon the dummy pixels may be redirected to the optically black pixels, causing inaccurate dark current measurements. Light-blocking structures may be provided in the dummy pixels to prevent light from reaching the optically black pixels. A grid of openings may be formed in the active pixel array and the dummy pixel area. The grid may be filled with color filters in the active area and light-blocking elements in the dummy pixel area. The dummy pixel area may include a single opening in the grid in which a single light-blocking element that covers multiple dummy pixel photodiodes is formed. Light-blocking structures in the dummy pixel area may extend over the optically black pixels.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.