U.S. patent application number 16/803697 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-18 for imaging apparatus, imaging system, and moving body.
The applicant listed for this patent is CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA. Invention is credited to Yusuke Onuki, Hiroshi Sekine.
Application Number | 20200194483 16/803697 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64400236 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-18 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200194483 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sekine; Hiroshi ; et
al. |
June 18, 2020 |
IMAGING APPARATUS, IMAGING SYSTEM, AND MOVING BODY
Abstract
An imaging apparatus includes a plurality of pixels each
including a photoelectric conversion unit and a charge holding unit
configured to hold an electric charge generated in the
photoelectric conversion unit, a waveguide disposed above the
photoelectric conversion unit, and a light blocking unit configured
to cover the charge holding unit, wherein a width of a bottom
surface of the waveguide is smaller than 1.1 .mu.m.
Inventors: |
Sekine; Hiroshi;
(Kawagoe-shi, JP) ; Onuki; Yusuke; (Fujisawa-shi,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
64400236 |
Appl. No.: |
16/803697 |
Filed: |
February 27, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15982975 |
May 17, 2018 |
10615205 |
|
|
16803697 |
|
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G05D 1/0246 20130101;
H04N 5/359 20130101; H04N 5/37452 20130101; H01L 27/14623 20130101;
H01L 27/14612 20130101; H01L 27/14625 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01L 27/146 20060101
H01L027/146; H04N 5/359 20060101 H04N005/359; G05D 1/02 20060101
G05D001/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 26, 2017 |
JP |
2017-104934 |
Claims
1. An imaging apparatus comprising: a plurality of pixels each
including a photoelectric conversion unit and a charge holding unit
configured to hold an electric charge generated in the
photoelectric conversion unit; a waveguide disposed above the
photoelectric conversion unit; and a light blocking unit configured
to cover the charge holding unit.
2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an angle
between a line connecting an end of the bottom surface of the
waveguide and an end of an upper surface of the waveguide and a
surface of a substrate on which the photoelectric conversion unit
is disposed is 65 degrees or more.
3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the angle is
68 degrees or more.
4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the angle is
80 degrees or less.
5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the angle is
74 degrees or less.
6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the angle is
72 degrees or less.
7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a taper
angle between a line connecting an end of the bottom surface of the
waveguide and an end of an upper surface of the waveguide and a
surface of a substrate on which the photoelectric conversion unit
is disposed is 72 degrees or less.
8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a width of
an upper surface of the waveguide is included in a range from 2.1
.mu.m to 2.6 .mu.m.
9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the width of
the upper surface of the waveguide is included in a range from 2.1
.mu.m to 2.3 .mu.m.
10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a width of
an upper surface of the waveguide is included in a range from 60%
to 77% of a pixel pitch at which the plurality of pixels are
arranged.
11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an aperture
is provided in the light blocking unit at a position above the
photoelectric conversion unit, and wherein a difference between the
width of the bottom surface of the waveguide and a width of the
aperture is 0.3 .mu.m or more.
12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, in a plan
view of a surface of a substrate on which the photoelectric
conversion unit is disposed, a distance between an end of the
bottom surface of the waveguide and the charge holding unit is 0.8
.mu.m or more.
13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, in a plan
view of a surface of a substrate on which the photoelectric
conversion unit is disposed, a distance between the photoelectric
conversion unit and the charge holding unit is 0.5 .mu.m or
more.
14. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a width of
a bottom surface of the waveguide is 32.0% or less of a pixel pitch
at which the plurality of pixels are arranged.
15. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a width of
a bottom surface of the waveguide is smaller than 1.1 .mu.m.
16. An imaging system comprising: the imaging apparatus according
to claim 1; and a processing apparatus configured to process a
signal output from the imaging apparatus, thereby acquiring an
image signal.
17. A moving body comprising: the imaging apparatus according to
claim 1; a processing apparatus configured to process a signal
output from the imaging apparatus; and a control unit configured to
control the moving body based on a result of the processing.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/982,975, filed May 17, 2018, which claims
the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-104934, filed
on May 26, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein
in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present disclosure relates to an imaging apparatus, an
imaging system, and a moving body.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-238949,
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-049575, and Japanese
Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-176969 discuss imaging
apparatuses including a plurality of pixels each including a
photoelectric conversion unit and a charge holding unit to which an
electric charge is transferred from the photoelectric conversion
unit. The charge holding unit is covered by a light blocking unit.
Since each pixel includes the charge holding unit shielded from
light, these imaging apparatuses can achieve a shutter operation
for simultaneously accumulating electric charges of all the pixels,
i.e., a global electronic shutter operation.
[0004] Above each photoelectric conversion unit, an optical
waveguide for collecting light in the photoelectric conversion unit
is provided. The optical waveguide improves the efficiency of light
collection in the photoelectric conversion unit. Thus, it is
possible to improve sensitivity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an imaging
apparatus includes a plurality of pixels each including a
photoelectric conversion unit and a charge holding unit configured
to hold an electric charge generated in the photoelectric
conversion unit, a waveguide disposed above the photoelectric
conversion unit, and a light blocking unit configured to cover the
charge holding unit, wherein a width of a bottom surface of the
waveguide is smaller than 1.1 .mu.m.
[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
imaging apparatus includes a plurality of pixels each including a
photoelectric conversion unit and a charge holding unit configured
to hold an electric charge generated in the photoelectric
conversion unit, a waveguide disposed above the photoelectric
conversion unit, and a light blocking unit configured to cover the
charge holding unit, wherein a width of a bottom surface of the
waveguide is 32.0% or less of a pixel pitch at which the plurality
of pixels are arranged.
[0007] Further features of the present disclosure will become
apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments
with reference to the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of
a pixel of an imaging apparatus according to a first exemplary
embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a planar
structure of the pixel of the imaging apparatus according to the
first exemplary embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating a
cross-sectional structure of the imaging apparatus according to the
first exemplary embodiment.
[0011] FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams schematically illustrating the
cross-sectional structure of the imaging apparatus according to the
first exemplary embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating sensitivity regarding a
waveguide of the imaging apparatus according to the first exemplary
embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a simulation
result of light blocking performance regarding the waveguide.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating a
cross-sectional structure of an imaging apparatus according to a
second exemplary embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an imaging system
according to a third exemplary embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 8A is a diagram schematically illustrating an external
appearance and a main internal structure of an automobile, and FIG.
8B is a block diagram illustrating a moving body according to a
fourth exemplary embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0016] According to imaging apparatuses according to some exemplary
embodiments, it is possible to suppress noise. If light is incident
on a charge holding unit, an electric charge may be generated in
the charge holding unit. The electric charge generated in the
charge holding unit can cause noise. For example, in a case where a
global electronic shutter operation is performed, the time from the
end of an exposure period to the reading of an electric charge of
the charge holding unit differs depending on the row. Thus, if
light is incident on the charge holding unit, shading may occur in
an image.
[0017] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-238949 and
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-049575 illustrate
examples of the schematic cross-sectional structure of an optical
waveguide and a light blocking unit. However, the positional
relationship between the optical waveguide and the light blocking
unit is not quantitatively examined. In Japanese Patent Application
Laid-Open No. 2015-176969, the relationship between the heights of
an optical waveguide and a light blocking unit is examined.
However, in the publication of Japanese Patent Application
Laid-Open No. 2015-176969 as well, the sizes of incidence and exit
surfaces of the optical waveguide are not examined. The present
inventors have found that the light blocking performance of a light
blocking unit greatly varies depending on the size of an incidence
surface of an optical waveguide. That is, in the conventional art,
it is difficult to improve the light blocking performance of the
light blocking unit. This may result in generation of noise.
[0018] Exemplary embodiments of an imaging apparatus according to
the present disclosure will be described in detail below.
Components similar throughout the drawings are designated by the
same reference signs, and the descriptions of redundant components
are occasionally omitted. Further, the following exemplary
embodiments exemplify an aspect of the present disclosure, and the
present invention is not limited to the following exemplary
embodiments.
[Pixel Circuit]
[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the circuit configuration
of a pixel according to a first exemplary embodiment. The pixel is
an element for converting light incident thereon into an electric
signal. A plurality of pixels are arranged in a matrix, thereby
forming a pixel array. The pixels are formed on a semiconductor
substrate made of silicon (Si).
[0020] Each pixel includes a photoelectric conversion unit 1, a
charge holding unit 2, a floating diffusion (FD) unit 3, and an
overflow drain (OFD) unit 15. The pixel further includes a first
transfer transistor 4, a second transfer transistor 5, a selection
transistor 7, a reset transistor 9, an amplification transistor 10,
and an OFD transistor 16, which switch the connections and
disconnections between these units or amplify a signal. Each
transistor is composed of a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect
transistor (MOSFET). For example, each transistor includes drain
and source terminals and a gate electrode (a gate terminal) for
controlling conduction between the drain and source terminals. The
selection transistor 7 of each pixel is connected to an output line
8. Typically, a plurality of pixels included in a single column are
connected to a single output line 8.
[0021] The photoelectric conversion unit 1 generates a signal
charge corresponding to the amount of light incident on the
photoelectric conversion unit 1. The charge holding unit 2 is
connected to the photoelectric conversion unit 1 via the first
transfer transistor 4. The first transfer transistor 4 transfers
the electric charge of the photoelectric conversion unit 1 to the
charge holding unit 2. In an equivalent circuit diagram, the charge
holding unit 2 is represented as a grounded capacity or a diode.
The charge holding unit 2 temporarily holds the electric charge
transferred from the photoelectric conversion unit 1.
[0022] The FD unit 3 converts the electric charge transferred from
the charge holding unit 2 into a voltage signal. The FD unit 3 is
connected to the charge holding unit 2 via the second transfer
transistor 5. The second transfer transistor 5 transfers the
electric charge of the charge holding unit 2 to the FD unit 3.
Further, the FD unit 3 is also connected to the source terminal of
the reset transistor 9 and the gate terminal of the amplification
transistor 10. A power supply voltage is supplied to the drain
terminal of the reset transistor 9. The reset transistor 9 is
turned on, thereby resetting the voltage of the FD unit 3 to the
power supply voltage.
[0023] The amplification transistor 10 outputs a signal
corresponding to the voltage of the gate terminal of the
amplification transistor 10 to the output line 8. For example, in
the state where the voltage of the FD unit 3 is reset to the power
supply voltage, the amplification transistor 10 outputs a reset
signal. Further, after the transfer transistor 5 is turned on, and
the electric charge is transferred from the charge holding unit 2
to the FD unit 3, a pixel signal corresponding to the amount of
transferred electric charge is output to the source terminal of the
amplification transistor 10.
[0024] The source terminal of the amplification transistor 10 is
connected to the drain terminal of the selection transistor 7. The
source terminal of the selection transistor 7 is connected to the
output line 8. If the selection transistor 7 is turned on, the
reset signal or the pixel signal is output to the output line 8. In
this manner, a signal is read from the pixel.
[0025] The photoelectric conversion unit 1 is connected to the OFD
unit 15 via the OFD transistor 16. If the OFD transistor 16 is
turned on, electric charges accumulated in the photoelectric
conversion unit 1 are discharged to the OFD unit 15. Electric
charges of all the pixels are simultaneously discharged to the OFD
units 15, and then, the accumulated electric charges are
transferred to the charge holding units 2, thereby achieving a
global electronic shutter for setting simultaneous and uniform
exposure times for all the pixels. This suppresses shifts in
exposure timings occurring due to the sequential reading of
electric charges from the pixels and reduces a distortion in an
image. The global electronic shutter operation is an example of a
driving method applicable to an imaging apparatus according to the
present exemplary embodiment. The imaging apparatus according to
the present exemplary embodiment may only perform a rolling shutter
operation.
[Pixel Structure]
[0026] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating the planar
structure of the pixel according to the first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a plan view of the surface of the substrate on which the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 and the like are disposed. The
surface of the substrate is, for example, a surface on which a
semiconductor material such as silicon is in contact with an
insulator material. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating
a cross-sectional structure along X-X' in FIG. 2. FIGS. 4A and 4B
are partially enlarged views of FIG. 3. Portions corresponding to
those of the circuit in FIG. 1 are designated by the same signs,
and the descriptions of already described configurations and
functions are occasionally omitted. The signs corresponding to the
transistors refer to the gate electrodes (the gate terminals) of
the respective transistors.
[0027] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the photoelectric conversion unit
1 is disposed between the charge holding unit 2 in the same pixel
and the charge holding unit 2 in a pixel adjacent to this pixel.
Thus, the photoelectric conversion units 1 and the charge holding
units 2 are alternately arranged along a first direction (the
vertical direction in FIG. 2). Meanwhile, the photoelectric
conversion unit 1 and a region where the FD unit 3, the OFD unit
15, and the transistors are disposed are arranged along a second
direction intersecting the first direction.
[0028] With reference to FIG. 3, the structures of the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 and the charge holding unit 2 will
be described. The photoelectric conversion unit 1 includes a first
semiconductor region 11 of a first conductivity type and a second
semiconductor region 12 of a second conductivity type. The second
semiconductor region 12 is formed in contact with the surface of
the substrate. The first semiconductor region 11 is placed
immediately below the second semiconductor region 12. Hereinafter,
the description is given on the assumption that the first
conductivity type is an n-type, and the second conductivity type is
a p-type. These types, however, may be reversed. A junction
interface between the first semiconductor region and the second
semiconductor region 12 forms a P-N junction. The P-N junction
interface is inside the substrate and not in contact with the
surface of the substrate. That is, the photoelectric conversion
unit 1 is a buried photodiode. In a buried-type structure, the P-N
junction interface is buried in the substrate. Thus, the influence
of noise on the surface of the substrate is suppressed.
[0029] A third semiconductor region 13 of an n-type is further
formed immediately below the first semiconductor region 11. The
impurity concentration of the third semiconductor region 13 is
lower than the impurity concentration of the first semiconductor
region 11. Consequently, electrons photoelectrically converted by
the third semiconductor region 13 can be collected in the first
semiconductor region 11. Alternatively, the third semiconductor
region 13 may be of a p-type.
[0030] A fourth semiconductor region 17 is formed below the third
semiconductor region 13. The fourth semiconductor region 17 extends
to the regions of the charge holding unit 2 and the FD unit 3. The
fourth semiconductor region 17 is a p-type semiconductor region.
The fourth semiconductor region 17 serves as a potential barrier
for an electron generated in the photoelectric conversion unit 1
and has the function of suppressing the leakage of the electron to
the substrate.
[0031] The charge holding unit 2 includes a fifth semiconductor
region 201 of an n-type and a sixth semiconductor region 202 of a
p-type. The sixth semiconductor region 202 is formed in contact
with the surface of the substrate. The fifth semiconductor region
201 is placed immediately below the sixth semiconductor region 202.
Similarly to the photoelectric conversion unit 1, the charge
holding unit 2 has a buried-type structure. Thus, it is possible to
suppress the accumulation of electric charges generated on the
surface of the substrate as noise in the charge holding unit 2.
Alternatively, the charge holding unit 2 can also be formed by
omitting the sixth semiconductor region 202 and placing only the
fifth semiconductor region 201. In this case, the gate electrode of
the first transfer transistor 4 extends to cover the charge holding
unit 2, and a negative potential is applied to the gate electrode
to induce a hole on the surface, whereby it is possible to suppress
noise generated at the interface.
[Optical System and Wiring Structure]
[0032] As illustrated in FIG. 3, a color filter 100, a microlens
101, an interlayer lens 102, and a waveguide 31 are placed as an
optical system above the photoelectric conversion unit 1. Light
incident from above the photoelectric conversion unit 1
sequentially passes through the microlens 101, the color filter
100, the interlayer lens 102, and the waveguide 31 and is incident
on the photoelectric conversion unit 1. The light incident on the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 is converted into an electron. The
imaging apparatus includes lines 41, 42, and 43, which are used to
transmit signals. The lines 41, 42, and 43 are formed of a highly
conductive material such as aluminum or copper. The lines 41, 42,
and 43 are placed around the waveguide 31. Although portions
between members such as the interlayer lens 102, the waveguide 31,
the lines 41, 42, and 43, and the photoelectric conversion unit are
illustrated as spaces in FIG. 3, an interlayer insulating layer
(not illustrated) or a planarization layer (not illustrated) is
formed in these space portions.
[0033] The microlens 101 and the interlayer lens 102 can
concentrate light incident thereon on the photoelectric conversion
unit 1. As a result, it is possible to improve sensitivity. The
color filter 100 is a thin film for selectively transmitting light
of a particular wavelength. With the color filter 100, it is
possible to obtain an image signal including color information.
[0034] The waveguide 31 has the function of concentrating light
incident thereon on the photoelectric conversion unit 1. The
waveguide 31 increases the amount of light to be incident on the
photoelectric conversion unit 1. Thus, it is possible to improve
the sensitivity as compared with a case where the waveguide 31 is
not included. Particularly, in a case where the area of the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 is small, or the F-number is large,
the problem of a reduction in the sensitivity may arise. In
response to this, the waveguide 31 is provided, whereby it is
possible to suppress the influence of this problem.
[0035] The waveguide 31 includes an upper surface (an incidence
portion) which is opposed to the interlayer lens 102 and on which
light is incident, and a bottom surface (an exit portion) which is
opposed to the photoelectric conversion unit 1 and from which light
is emitted. In the present exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface
of the waveguide 31 is a contact surface between a member forming
the waveguide 31 and a member disposed below the waveguide 31. The
member disposed below the waveguide 31 is, for example, an etch
stopper layer or an interlayer insulating layer. Further, in the
present exemplary embodiment, the upper surface of the waveguide 31
is a contact surface between the member forming the waveguide 31
and a member disposed above the waveguide 31. Above the waveguide
31, an interlayer insulating layer or a planarization layer is
disposed. In the cross section illustrated in FIG. 3, the width of
the upper surface of the waveguide 31 is greater than the width of
the bottom surface of the waveguide 31. That is, in this cross
section, the waveguide 31 has a trapezoidal shape.
[0036] As illustrated in FIG. 2, an end portion 31b of the upper
surface and an end portion 31a of the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 are circular. In FIG. 2, "d02" represents the width of
the waveguide 31 at the bottom surface of the waveguide 31.
Further, "d03" represents the width of the waveguide 31 at the
upper surface of the waveguide 31. In the present exemplary
embodiment, since the shapes of the upper and bottom surfaces of
the waveguide 31 are circular, each of the widths of the waveguide
31 at the upper and bottom surfaces of the waveguide 31 corresponds
to the diameter of a circle. Each of the shapes of the upper and
bottom surfaces of the waveguide 31 may be an ellipse, a square, a
rectangle, or a polygon. In a case where the shape of the upper or
bottom surface is an ellipse, the width of the waveguide 31
corresponds to the length of the major axis of the ellipse. In a
case where the shape of the upper or bottom surface includes two
sides parallel to each other as in a square, a rectangle, or a
regular hexagon, the width of the waveguide 31 is the distance
between the two parallel sides, or the length of a line segment
passing through the center of gravity and two diagonal vertices. In
the case of another shape, the width of the waveguide 31 is the
length of the longest line segment among line segments passing
inside the waveguide 31 and having both ends in end portions of the
upper or bottom surface.
[0037] In the present exemplary embodiment, as the material of each
interlayer insulating layer between the lines 41, 42, and 43, a
silicon dioxide film (SiO) having a refractive index of
approximately 1.5 is used. As the material of the waveguide 31, a
silicon nitride film (SiN) having a refractive index of
approximately 2.0 is used. Light obliquely incident at a
predetermined angle on the interface between the waveguide 31 and
the interlayer insulating layer is totally reflected by the
interface. Thus, the light propagates in the waveguide 31 without
leaking to the interlayer insulating layer and is guided to the
photoelectric conversion unit 1.
[0038] The materials of the interlayer insulating layer and the
waveguide 31 are not limited to the combination of a silicon
dioxide film and a silicon nitride film. The materials only need to
be combined so that the refractive index of the waveguide 31 is
higher than the refractive index of the interlayer insulating
layer. Thus, any materials can be selected. For example, the
interlayer insulating layer may be formed of a silicon dioxide
film, and the waveguide 31 may be formed of a silicon oxynitride
film (SiON) having a refractive index of approximately 1.8.
Alternatively, an organic film material or a material obtained by
mixing titanium oxide particles in an organic film material may be
used for the waveguide 31. The interlayer insulating layer may be
formed of a laminated film composed of different materials. In this
case, the refractive index of the waveguide 31 may be configured to
be higher than the volume average refractive index of the
interlayer insulating layer around the waveguide 31.
[0039] The inclination angle of a side wall of the waveguide 31 can
be determined by Snell's law. For example, if the refractive index
of the waveguide 31 is 1.9, and the refractive index of the
interlayer insulating layer is 1.46, light incident at an angle of
incidence of 50.2 degrees or more with respect to a perpendicular
to the side wall of the waveguide 31 is totally reflected. For
example, if the angle of the side wall of the waveguide 31 is 39.8
degrees or less with respect to a direction vertical to the
substrate, the leakage of light incident perpendicularly on the
waveguide 31 is suppressed, and the light reaches the photoelectric
conversion unit 1. The greater the ratio of the refractive index of
the waveguide 31 to that of the interlayer insulating layer, the
wider the range of the angle of incidence at which light can be
totally reflected. This improves the degree of freedom in designing
the angle of the side wall.
[0040] A reflection prevention layer may be included in the optical
path of incident light between the upper surface of the waveguide
31 and the interlayer lens 102 or between the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 and the photoelectric conversion unit 1. The loss of
the amount of light due to reflection is reduced, and the
transmittance of incident light is improved. Thus, it is possible
to improve the sensitivity.
[Structure of Light Blocking Unit]
[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the imaging apparatus further
includes a light blocking unit 203, which covers at least a part of
the charge holding unit 2. It is desirable that the light blocking
unit 203 should be placed to cover the charge holding unit 2 and
the gate electrode of the first transfer transistor 4. It is more
desirable that the light blocking unit 203 should cover a region
other than that immediately above the photoelectric conversion unit
1. The light blocking unit 203 suppresses the incidence of light on
the charge holding unit 2. This suppresses the generation of an
electric charge in the charge holding unit 2 by incident light
which leads to generation of noise.
[0042] The light blocking unit 203 can be formed using a material
less likely to transmit visible light, such as tungsten, tungsten
silicide, a tungsten oxide film, aluminum, or an alloy film of
these materials. The film thickness of the light blocking unit 203
is, for example, approximately 100 to 200 nm. The light blocking
unit 203 is collectively formed, including a portion where the gate
electrodes are placed and a portion where the gate electrodes are
not placed. Thus, the light blocking unit 203 includes depressions
and protrusions caused by the film thicknesses of the gate
electrodes.
[0043] The light blocking unit 203 includes an aperture immediately
above the photoelectric conversion unit 1 so that a portion other
than the photoelectric conversion unit is shielded from light,
while the photoelectric conversion unit 1 is irradiated with light.
A part of the light blocking unit 203 may be disposed above an end
portion of the photoelectric conversion unit 1. In FIG. 2, "d01"
represents the width of the aperture of the light blocking unit
203. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, the width of the
aperture of the light blocking unit 203 is the distance between end
portions of the aperture of the light blocking unit 203 in the
direction along which the two charge holding units 2 are arranged.
In a case where end portions of the aperture of the light blocking
unit 203 include two sides parallel to each other, then as
illustrated in FIG. 2, the distance between the two sides may be
the width of the aperture of the light blocking unit 203.
[Detailed Description of Waveguide]
[0044] FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating the positional
relationship between the light blocking unit 203 and the waveguide
31 in the present exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 4A and 4B are
diagrams schematically illustrating a cross-sectional structure
along X-X'' in FIG. 2 and are enlarged views of a portion near the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 in FIG. 3.
[0045] In FIGS. 4A and 4B, dotted lines h2031, h2032, h2033, and
h311 indicate the distances between the light blocking unit 203 and
the waveguide 31, and the surface of the substrate (the heights of
the light blocking unit 203 and the waveguide 31 from the surface
of the substrate). For example, the dotted line h311 means that the
position of the bottom surface (the exit portion) of the waveguide
31 has the height h311. In the following descriptions, an
expression "the height of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is
h311" will occasionally be used with this sign.
[0046] In a region where the gate electrodes are not placed, the
distance between the light blocking unit 203 and the surface of the
substrate (the height of the light blocking unit 203 from the
surface of the substrate) is h2031. In the region where the gate
electrodes are not placed, the height of the upper surface of the
light blocking unit 203 is h2032. The height of the upper surface
of the light blocking unit 203 in the portion formed above the gate
electrodes is h2033. It is desirable that the distance h311 from
the surface of the substrate to the waveguide 31 should be longer
than the distance h2031 from the surface of the substrate to the
light blocking unit 203. In the present exemplary embodiment, the
height h311 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is between
the heights h2032 and h2033.
[0047] If the distance h311 from the surface of the substrate to
the waveguide 31 is shorter than the distance h2031 from the
surface of the substrate to the light blocking unit 203, light
emitted from the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 may spread due
to diffraction and be incident on the charge holding unit 2. If the
light is incident on the charge holding unit 2, an electric charge
is generated in the charge holding unit 2 and can cause noise. In
contrast, in the present exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface
of the waveguide 31 is at a position higher than the height h2031
of the lower end of the light blocking unit 203. Thus, even if
light emitted from the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 spreads
due to diffraction, the light is blocked by the light blocking unit
203. This can reduce or prevent the incidence of light on the
charge holding unit 2. Thus, it is possible to suppress the
generation of noise.
[0048] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a variation of the
positional relationship between the waveguide 31 and the light
blocking unit 203. The configuration illustrated in FIG. 4B is
different from the configuration illustrated in FIG. 4A in the
position of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31.
[0049] In FIG. 4B, the height h311 of the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 is between the height h2031 of the lower end of the
light blocking unit 203 and the height h2032 of the upper surface
of the light blocking unit 203 in the region where the gate
electrodes are not placed. In this case, light emitted from the
bottom surface of the waveguide 31 and diffracted is reflected by
the side surfaces of the light blocking unit 203. Thus, similarly
to the above case, it is possible to reduce or prevent the
incidence of light on the charge holding unit 2. Thus, it is
possible to suppress the generation of noise. The light reflected
by the side surfaces of the light blocking unit 203 can be incident
on the photoelectric conversion unit 1. A component to be reflected
by the upper surface of the light blocking unit 203 decreases, and
the amount of light to be reflected by the side surfaces of the
light blocking unit 203 and collected in the photoelectric
conversion unit increases. Thus, it is possible to obtain higher
sensitivity.
[0050] Next, with reference to FIG. 4A, a description will be given
of the width of the waveguide 31, the width of the aperture of the
light blocking unit 203, and the relationship between these widths
in the present exemplary embodiment. In the specification, when the
relationship between the width of the waveguide 31 and the width of
the aperture of the light blocking unit 203 is mentioned, each
width is measured on the same straight line. Thus, for example, the
widths of the waveguide 31 and the aperture of the light blocking
unit 203 are measured in a cross section including the waveguide 31
and the aperture of the light blocking unit 203, whereby it is
possible to identify the relationship between these widths.
[0051] First, the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide
31 will be described. The width d02 of the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 is set to a value less than approximately 1.1 .mu.m
(micrometers), or the width d02 of the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 is set to approximately 32.0% or less of a pixel pitch
(a pixel size). Specifically, in the present exemplary embodiment,
the pixel pitch is approximately 3.4 .mu.m, and the width d02 of
the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 in the present exemplary
embodiment is approximately 0.8 .mu.m.
[0052] The present inventors have found that it is possible to
improve the light blocking performance of the light blocking unit
203 by making the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide
31 small. The effects of this improvement in the light blocking
performance will be described.
[0053] FIG. 5A illustrates a simulation indicating the relationship
between the size of the waveguide 31 and the sensitivity. FIG. 5B
illustrates a simulation indicating the relationship between the
size of the waveguide 31 and the light blocking performance. In
each of FIGS. 5A and 5B, the horizontal axis represents the width
d02 of the bottom surface (the exit portion) of the waveguide 31,
and the vertical axis represents the width d03 of the upper surface
(the incidence portion) of the waveguide 31. Both FIGS. 5A and 5B
are standardized such that the numerical value of the highest
evaluation is 100%. The sensitivity is the ratio of the amount of
light incident on the photoelectric conversion unit 1 to the amount
of light incident on the imaging apparatus. The light blocking
performance is the ratio between the amount of light incident on
the photoelectric conversion unit 1 and the amount of light
incident on the charge holding unit 2 when a certain amount of
light is incident on the imaging apparatus.
[0054] Main conditions used in the simulations in FIGS. 5A and 5B
are as follows. The wavelength of incident light is 550 nm. The
angle of incidence of light is 0 degrees. The height of the
waveguide 31 is 2.0 .mu.m. The pixel pitch is 3.4 .mu.m. The width
of the photoelectric conversion unit 1 is 1.65 .mu.m. The width d01
of the aperture of the light blocking unit 203 is 1.3 .mu.m.
[0055] From FIG. 5A, it is understood that if the width d02 of the
bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is around 1.1 .mu.m, high
sensitivity is obtained. As illustrated in FIG. 5B, however, to
improve the light blocking performance, it is desirable that the
width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 should be
smaller than 1.1 .mu.m. In the present exemplary embodiment, if the
width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is 1.1 .mu.m or
more, the light blocking performance is approximately 40% of the
best value. It is considered that one of the reasons is that the
distance between the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 and the
charge holding unit 2 is short, and therefore, light emitted from
the waveguide 31 is likely to be incident on the charge holding
unit 2.
[0056] In the present exemplary embodiment, the pixel pitch (the
pixel size) is approximately 3.4 .mu.m. If the pixel pitch becomes
large, the maximum value of the width d02 of the bottom surface of
the waveguide 31 for obtaining desirable light blocking performance
changes. As a result of examination, the present inventors have
found that if the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide
31 is approximately 32.0% or less of the pixel pitch, it is
possible to improve the light blocking performance. For example, in
an exemplary embodiment where the pixel pitch is 3.8 .mu.m, and the
width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is
approximately 1.2 .mu.m, it is possible to obtain high light
blocking performance. As a matter of course, if the pixel pitch is
approximately 3.8 .mu.m, and the width d02 of the bottom surface of
the waveguide 31 is smaller than 1.1 .mu.m, it is possible to
improve the light blocking performance.
[0057] On the other hand, if the pixel pitch is smaller than 3.0
.mu.m, it is possible to improve the light blocking performance
even if the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is
greater than 32.0% of the pixel pitch. In an exemplary embodiment
where the pixel pitch is small, if the width d02 of the bottom
surface of the waveguide 31 is smaller than 1.1 .mu.m, it is
possible to improve the light blocking performance.
[0058] From the above examination, the present inventors have
obtained the knowledge that with a configuration where the width
d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is smaller than 1.1
.mu.m, or the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31
is approximately 32.0% or less of the pixel pitch, it is possible
to improve the light blocking performance. In the conventional art,
it is considered that an improvement in the sensitivity also
optimizes the light blocking performance. However, the desirable
size of the waveguide 31 for the light blocking performance is
different from a condition appropriate for an improvement in the
sensitivity examined in the conventional art. Thus, based on the
new knowledge obtained by the present inventors, it is possible to
reduce noise generated in the imaging apparatus.
[0059] The lower limit of the width d02 of the bottom surface of
the waveguide 31 is not particularly limited. However, in view of
the light-guiding effect due to the localization of light, the
width d02 may at least correspond to the wavelength of visible
light. For example, it is desirable that the width d02 of the
bottom surface of the waveguide 31 should be 0.7 .mu.m or more.
[0060] Next, the desirable relationship between the width d02 of
the bottom surface and the width d03 of the upper surface of the
waveguide 31 will be described. First, in the cross section in FIG.
3, the angle between a straight line connecting the end portion 31a
of the bottom surface and the end portion 31b of the upper surface
of the waveguide 31 and the surface of the substrate is referred to
as a "taper angle". If the side surface of the waveguide 31 is
perpendicular to the surface of the substrate, the taper angle is
90 degrees.
[0061] To further improve the light blocking performance, it is
desirable that the taper angle should be 65 degrees or more. It is
more desirable that the taper angle should be 68 degrees or more.
If the taper angle is small, light incident on the waveguide 31 may
leak out of the waveguide 31. This is because light reaching the
side surface of the waveguide 31 at an angle greater than a
critical angle increases. The light leaking from the waveguide 31
can be reflected by the lines and incident on the charge holding
unit 2. This may result in a decrease in the light blocking
performance.
[0062] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, if the taper angle
is 65 degrees or more, generally, the value of the light blocking
performance is 40% or more of the best value. If the width d02 of
the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is 0.8 .mu.m, and the width
d03 of the upper surface of the waveguide 31 is 2.5 .mu.m, the
taper angle is approximately 66.8 degrees. According to the
simulation, the light blocking performance at this time was
approximately 40% of the best value. If the taper angle is degrees
or more, generally, the value of the light blocking performance is
60% or more of the best value. If the width d02 of the bottom
surface of the waveguide 31 is 0.8 .mu.m, and the width d03 of the
upper surface of the waveguide 31 is 2.4 .mu.m, and also if the
width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is 0.9 .mu.m,
and the width d03 of the upper surface of the waveguide 31 is 2.5
.mu.m, the taper angle is approximately 68.0 degrees. In these
cases, the light blocking performance was around 60% of the best
value.
[0063] The upper limit of the desirable range of the taper angle
varies depending on the performance to be prioritized. To
facilitate the formation process of the waveguide 31, it is
desirable that the taper angle should be 80 degrees or less. This
is because the closer to 90 degrees the taper angle is, the more
easily the waveguide 31 is formed. Thus, to achieve both the light
blocking performance and the facilitation of the formation process
of the waveguide 31, it is desirable that the taper angle should be
included in the range from 65 degrees to 80 degrees.
[0064] The upper limit of the taper angle may be determined in
terms of the light blocking performance. Specifically, if the taper
angle is 74 degrees or less, it is possible to improve the light
blocking performance. It is more desirable that the taper angle
should be 72 degrees or less. If the taper angle is close to 90
degrees, the width d03 of the upper surface (the incidence portion)
of the waveguide 31 becomes small. Thus, the amount of light to be
incident on the waveguide 31 may decrease. Light not incident on
the waveguide 31 can be reflected by the lines and incident on the
charge holding unit 2. This may result in a decrease in the light
blocking performance.
[0065] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, if the taper angle
is 74 degrees or less, generally, the value of the light blocking
performance is 40% or more of the best value. If the width d02 of
the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is 1.0 .mu.m, and the width
d03 of the upper surface of the waveguide 31 is 2.2 .mu.m, the
taper angle is approximately 73.2 degrees. According to the
simulation under these conditions, the light blocking performance
was approximately 40% of the best value. Further, if the width d02
of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is 1.0 .mu.m, and the
width d03 of the upper surface of the waveguide 31 is 2.3 .mu.m,
the taper angle is approximately 71.9 degrees. In this case, the
light blocking performance was approximately 60% of the best
value.
[0066] To sum up, to prioritize an improvement in the light
blocking performance, it is desirable that the taper angle should
be included in the range from 65 degrees to 74 degrees.
Consequently, generally, it is possible to obtain the light
blocking performance that is approximately 40% or more of the best
value. It is more desirable that the taper angle should be included
in the range from 68 degrees to 72 degrees. Consequently,
generally, it is possible to obtain the light blocking performance
that is approximately 60% or more of the best value.
[0067] In the conventional art, typically, only the sensitivity of
a waveguide is evaluated. The sensitivity can be improved by making
the width d03 of the upper surface of the waveguide 31 large. In
response to this, the present inventors have obtained the new
knowledge that if the width d03 of the upper surface of the
waveguide 31 is too large, the light blocking performance may
decrease. This can improve the light blocking performance as
compared with the conventional art.
[0068] The inclusion of the taper angle in a predetermined range is
a method additionally employed to further improve the light
blocking performance. Even if the taper angle is not included in
the above range, it is still possible to improve the light blocking
performance as compared with the conventional art.
[0069] If attention is paid to the width d03 of the upper surface
of the waveguide 31, it is desirable that the width d03 of the
upper surface should be included in the range from approximately
2.1 .mu.m to approximately 2.6 .mu.m. As can be understood from the
simulation result in FIG. 5B, if the width d03 of the upper surface
of the waveguide 31 is included in the above range, it is possible
to obtain relatively high light blocking performance. It is more
desirable that the width d03 of the upper surface of the waveguide
31 should be included in the range from approximately 2.2 .mu.m to
approximately 2.3 .mu.m. Further, as a result of examining the
relationship between the width d03 of the upper surface of the
waveguide 31 and the pixel pitch (the pixel size), it is understood
that it is desirable that the width d03 of the upper surface of the
waveguide 31 should be included in the range from approximately 60%
to approximately 77% of the pixel pitch.
[0070] Next, the width d01 of the aperture of the light blocking
unit 203 will be described. It is desirable that the difference
between the width d01 of the aperture of the light blocking unit
203 and the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31
should be 0.3 .mu.m or more. In the present exemplary embodiment,
for example, the width d01 of the aperture of the light blocking
unit 203 is approximately 1.3 .mu.m, and the width d02 of the
bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is approximately 0.8 .mu.m. The
bottom surface (the exit portion) of the waveguide 31 is distant
from the end of the aperture, and therefore, it is possible to
reduce the possibility that light emitted from the waveguide 31 is
incident on the charge holding unit 2.
[0071] In the plan view in FIG. 2, it is desirable that the
distance between the end portion 31a of the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 and the charge holding unit 2 should be 0.8 .mu.m or
more. The further away the exit portion of the waveguide 31 and the
charge holding unit 2 are from each other, the higher light
blocking performance can be obtained. Typically, the gate electrode
of the first transfer transistor 4 is disposed between the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 and the charge holding unit 2. In
this case, the distance between the end portion 31a of the bottom
surface of the waveguide 31 and the end of the gate electrode on
the charge holding unit 2 side should be 0.8 .mu.m or more.
[0072] In the plan view in FIG. 2, the distance between the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 and the charge holding unit 2 may
be 0.5 .mu.m or more. According to such a configuration, it is easy
to electrically separate the photoelectric conversion unit 1 and
the charge holding unit from each other appropriately. Further, the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 is a region on which light should
be incident, while the charge holding unit 2 is a region which
should be shielded from light. Thus, the further away the
photoelectric conversion unit 1 and the charge holding unit 2 are
from each other, the more advantageous it is to improve the light
blocking performance.
[0073] As illustrated in the plan view in FIG. 2, the photoelectric
conversion unit 1 is disposed between two charge holding units 2.
With such a layout, the effects of an improvement in the light
blocking performance by making the width d02 of the bottom surface
of the waveguide 31 small are more remarkable.
[0074] As described above, in the present exemplary embodiment, the
width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is smaller than
1.1 .mu.m, or the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide
31 is 32.0% or less of the pixel pitch. According to such a
configuration, it is possible to improve the light blocking
performance of the light blocking unit 203.
[0075] A second exemplary embodiment will be described. The present
exemplary embodiment is different from the first exemplary
embodiment in the configurations of the upper and bottom surfaces
of the waveguide 31. The differences from the first exemplary
embodiment will be mainly described below.
[0076] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates the cross-sectional
structure of a pixel according to the second exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion corresponding to
X-X'' in FIG. 2. Portions similar to those of the first exemplary
embodiment are designated by the same signs, and are not described
here.
[0077] In FIG. 6, similarly to the first exemplary embodiment, the
waveguide 31 includes a portion having a trapezoidal shape in the
cross section. Above this portion, a layer extending to outside the
waveguide 31 is disposed. The portion having the trapezoidal shape
and the layer extending to outside the waveguide 31 can be composed
of the same material. That is, the waveguide 31 is formed as a part
of a structure having a T-shape in the cross section.
[0078] In the present exemplary embodiment, an end portion 31b of
the upper surface of the waveguide 31 is a portion where a member
forming the waveguide 31 bends between the trapezoid-shaped portion
of the waveguide 31 and the layer above the waveguide 31. Thus, in
the present exemplary embodiment, "w31b" in FIG. 6 represents the
width of the upper surface of the waveguide 31.
[0079] Further, in FIG. 6, an etching stop layer (ESL) 32, which is
used to form the waveguide 31, is provided on the bottom surface of
the waveguide 31. The ESL 32 is a layer for completing an etching
process stably at a predetermined depth. The same material as that
of the waveguide 31 may be used for the ESL 32. If the ESL 32 has a
refractive index equivalent to that of the waveguide 31, the ESL 32
has a light collection effect similarly to the waveguide 31. Thus,
it is possible to improve the sensitivity.
[0080] In this case, an end portion 31a of the bottom surface of
the waveguide 31 is a portion where the member forming the
waveguide 31 bends between the trapezoid-shaped portion of the
waveguide 31 and the ESL 32. Thus, in the present exemplary
embodiment, "w31a" in FIG. 6 represents the width of the bottom
surface of the waveguide 31.
[0081] In the present exemplary embodiment, the width d02 of the
bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is smaller than 1.1 .mu.m, or
the width d02 of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is 32.0% or
less of the pixel pitch. According to such a configuration,
similarly to the first exemplary embodiment, it is possible to
improve the light blocking performance of the light blocking unit
203.
[0082] Similarly to the first exemplary embodiment, the height h311
of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 is greater than the
height h2031 of the lower end of the light blocking unit 203. The
effects of this configuration are as described above in the first
exemplary embodiment. In addition to this, in the present exemplary
embodiment, a width w203a of the aperture of the light blocking
unit 203 is greater than the width w31a of the bottom surface of
the waveguide 31 and smaller than the width w31b of the upper
surface of the waveguide 31. At this time, an end portion 203a of
the light blocking unit 203 is located between the end portion 31a
of the bottom surface of the waveguide 31 and the end portion 31b
of the upper surface of the waveguide 31 as viewed from the optical
axis direction of the waveguide 31. According to such a
configuration, light output from the bottom surface of the
waveguide 31 is less likely to be reflected by the light blocking
unit 203. Thus, it is possible to improve the sensitivity.
[0083] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an
imaging system according to a third exemplary embodiment. An
imaging system 800 includes an optical unit 810, an imaging
apparatus 820, a video signal processing unit 830, a
recording/communication unit 840, a timing control unit 850, a
system control unit 860, and a reproduction/display unit 870. As
the imaging apparatus 820, the imaging apparatus described above in
each of the first and second exemplary embodiments is used.
[0084] The optical unit 810, which is an optical system such as a
lens, forms an image of light from an object on a pixel array of
the imaging apparatus 820, in which a plurality of pixels are
arranged two-dimensionally, thereby forming an image of the object.
At a timing based on a signal from the timing control unit 850, the
imaging apparatus 820 outputs a signal corresponding to the light
of which the image is formed on the pixels. The signal output from
the imaging apparatus 820 is input to the video signal processing
unit 830. According to a method determined by a program, the video
signal processing unit 830 processes the input signal. The signal
obtained by the processing of the video signal processing unit 830
is sent as image data to the recording/communication unit 840. The
recording/communication unit 840 sends a signal for forming an
image to the reproduction/display unit 870 and causes the
reproduction/display unit 870 to reproduce or display a moving
image or a still image. Further, the recording/communication unit
840 receives a signal from the video signal processing unit 830 and
communicates with the system control unit 860, and also performs
the operation of recording a signal for forming an image in a
recording medium (not illustrated).
[0085] The system control unit 860 performs overall control of the
operation of the imaging system 800. The system control unit 860
controls the driving of the optical unit 810, the timing control
unit 850, the recording/communication unit 840, and the
reproduction/display unit 870. Further, the system control unit 860
includes a storage device (not illustrated) such as a recording
medium. In the storage device, a program necessary to control the
operation of the imaging system 800 is recorded. Further, the
system control unit 860 supplies into the imaging system 800, for
example, a signal for switching a driving mode according to an
operation of a user. Specifically, a signal for switching the
driving mode such as changing a row to be read or a row to be
reset, changing the angle of view according to electronic zoom, or
shifting the angle of view according to electronic image
stabilization is supplied. Based on control of the system control
unit 860, the timing control unit 850 controls the driving timings
of the imaging apparatus 820 and the video signal processing unit
830.
[0086] The imaging apparatus 820 according to each of the first and
second exemplary embodiments is provided, whereby it is possible to
achieve the imaging system 800 in which the generation of noise is
suppressed.
[0087] A fourth exemplary embodiment regarding a moving body will
be described. The moving body according to the present exemplary
embodiment is an automobile including an in-vehicle camera. FIG. 8A
schematically illustrates the external appearance and the main
internal structure of an automobile 2100. The automobile 2100
includes imaging apparatuses 2102, an imaging system integrated
circuit (application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) 2103, an
alarm device 2112, and a main control unit 2113.
[0088] As each of the imaging apparatuses 2102, the imaging
apparatus described above in each of the exemplary embodiments is
used. When the alarm device 2112 receives a signal indicating an
abnormality from an imaging system, a vehicle sensor, or a control
unit, the alarm device 2112 gives a warning to a driver. The main
control unit 2113 performs overall control of the operations of the
imaging system, the vehicle sensor, and the control unit.
Alternatively, the automobile 2100 may not include the main control
unit 2113. In this case, the imaging system, the vehicle sensor,
and the control unit each individually includes a communication
interface, and transmits and receives a control signal via a
communication network (e.g., based on the Controller Area Network
(CAN) standard).
[0089] FIG. 8B is a block diagram illustrating the system
configuration of the automobile 2100. The automobile 2100 includes
a first imaging apparatus 2102 and a second imaging apparatus 2102.
That is, the in-vehicle camera according to the present exemplary
embodiment is a stereo camera. In the imaging apparatuses 2102,
object images are formed by optical units 2114. Pixel signals
output from the imaging apparatuses 2102 are processed by image
pre-processing units 2115 and then transmitted to the imaging
system integrated circuit 2103. The image pre-processing units 2115
perform processing such as signal-to-noise (S-N) calculation and
synchronization signal addition.
[0090] The imaging system integrated circuit 2103 includes an image
processing unit 2104, a memory 2105, an optical distance
measurement unit 2106, a parallax calculation unit 2107, an object
recognition unit 2108, an abnormality detection unit 2109, and an
external interface (I/F) unit 2116. The image processing unit 2104
processes the pixel signals, thereby generating an image signal.
Further, the image processing unit 2104 corrects the image signal
or complements an abnormal pixel. The memory 2105 temporarily holds
the image signal. Further, the memory 2105 may store the position
of an abnormal pixel of a known imaging apparatus 2102. The optical
distance measurement unit 2106 focuses on the object or measures
the distance from the object using the image signal. The parallax
calculation unit 2107 verifies the object in parallax images
(stereo matching). The object recognition unit 2108 analyzes the
image signal, thereby recognizing the object such as an automobile,
a person, a sign, or a road. The abnormality detection unit 2109
detects a breakdown or a malfunction of each of the imaging
apparatuses 2102. If detecting a breakdown or a malfunction, the
abnormality detection unit 2109 sends to the main control unit 2113
a signal indicating that an abnormality is detected. The external
I/F unit 2116 mediates the transmission and reception of
information between the components of the imaging system integrated
circuit 2103 and the main control unit 2113 or various control
units.
[0091] The automobile 2100 includes a vehicle information
acquisition unit 2110 and a driving assistance unit 2111. The
vehicle information acquisition unit 2110 includes vehicle sensors
such as a speed/acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a
steering angle sensor, a distance measurement radar, and a pressure
sensor.
[0092] The driving assistance unit 2111 includes a collision
determination unit. Based on information from the optical distance
measurement unit 2106, the parallax calculation unit 2107, and the
object recognition unit 2108, the collision determination unit
determines whether there is a possibility of collision with a
physical object. The optical distance measurement unit 2106 and the
parallax calculation unit 2107 are examples of a distance
information acquisition means for acquiring distance information of
the distance from a target object. That is, the distance
information is information regarding the parallax, the amount of
defocus, and the distance from the target object. Using any of
these pieces of distance information, the collision determination
unit may determine the possibility of collision. The distance
information acquisition means may be achieved by exclusively
designed hardware, or may be achieved by a software module.
[0093] An example has been described where the driving assistance
unit 2111 controls the automobile 2100 so as not to collide with
another physical object. Alternatively, the present exemplary
embodiment is also applicable to control for automated driving of
the automobile 2100 by following another vehicle, or control for
automated driving of the automobile 2100 so as to stay in a
lane.
[0094] The automobile 2100 further includes driving units for use
in running, such as an airbag, a gas pedal, a brake, steering, and
a transmission. Further, the automobile 2100 includes control units
for these driving units. Based on a control signal from the main
control unit 2113, each control unit controls the corresponding
driving unit.
[0095] The imaging system used in the present exemplary embodiment
can be applied not only to an automobile but also to a moving body
(a moving apparatus) such as a vessel, an aircraft, or an
industrial robot. Additionally, the imaging system can be applied
not only to a moving body but also to a device widely using object
recognition, such as an intelligent transportation system
(ITS).
[0096] As described above, in the exemplary embodiment regarding
the automobile, the imaging apparatus according to either of the
first and second exemplary embodiments is used as each of the
imaging apparatuses 2102. According to such a configuration, it is
possible to suppress the generation of noise.
[0097] While the present disclosure has been described with
reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.
The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest
interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent structures and functions.
* * * * *