A CCD color signal separation IC for single-chip color imagers

A CCD color signal separation IC for solid-state imagers with color filter arrays is described. The device simplifies peripheral circuitry and enhances picture qualities such as resolution, color fidelity, and stability for single-chip color imaging systems by incorporating CCD delay lines, sample-and-hold circuits, and dual clamp circuit. Also described is a color filter array utilizing Bayer geometry, which is used in the separation IC. Color images corresponding to a horizontal resolution of 340 TV lines with no erroneous color have been obtained from the device when used with a 580/spl times/475 element CCD imager.