Pixel array
US9231005B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 26, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jan 5, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 19, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N23/673
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A pixel array for imaging comprises an array of pixels of a first pixel type and a second pixel type. Each pixel of the first pixel type comprises a first photo-sensitive element having a first area. Each pixel of the second pixel type comprises a second photo-sensitive element and a third photo-sensitive element. The second photo-sensitive element has a second area, which is smaller than the first area. Only the second photo-sensitive element in the pixel of the second pixel type is connected to a readout circuit. The third photo-sensitive element is connected to a charge drain via a permanent connection or a switchable connection. Outputs of the second photo-sensitive elements can be used to perform phase detect autofocussing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.