Sensor device

Abstract

A sensor device (20) is provided, the sensor device (20) comprising a cover (21) with a first side (22) and a second side (23), the first side (22) facing away from the second side (23), an optical sensor (24) arranged at the second side (23) of the cover (21), and an optical structure (25) that is arranged between the cover (21) and the optical sensor (24), wherein the cover (21) has a plurality of apertures (26), the optical structure (25) comprises a plurality of protrusions (27) which each have a polygonal base area (29) with at least three sides, the protrusions (27) each extend along a vertical direction (z) which extends perpendicular to a main plane of extension of the cover (21), the lateral extension of each protrusion (27) changes along the vertical direction (z), wherein the lateral extension is the extension within planes that extend perpendicular to the vertical direction (z), and the protrusions (27) form an outer surface (28) of the optical structure (25).

Description

[0001] 2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0002] P2024, 1214 WO N - 1 -

[0003] Description

[0004] SENSOR DEVICE

[0005] Optical sensors are employed in a wide range of applications . Increasingly, it is desired to integrate optical sensors such as ambient light sensors in mobile devices behind a screen. In this way, the area occupied by the screen can be maximised. The ambient light sensor can be employed for brightness and color correlated temperature measurements . The detected irradiance, this means the total quantity of incoming radiation, however is influenced by the angle of incidence of incoming light and by apertures above the ambient light sensor, for example within the display. The display thus has an impact on the accuracy of the measurement of the irradiance .

[0006] It is an obj ective to provide a sensor device that can be operated with an improved accuracy.

[0007] This obj ective is achieved by the subj ect matter of the independent claim. Further developments and embodiments are described in dependent claims .

[0008] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the sensor device comprises a cover with a first side and a second side, the first side facing away from the second side . The first side is thus arranged at an opposite side of the cover in comparison to the second side . The first side can be a front side . The second side can be a back side . The cover can be at least partially transparent for electromagnetic radiation, in particular, for visible light . The cover can have a transmittance for visible light of at least 0.1 % or2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0009] P2024, 1214 WO N - 2 -

[0010] of at least 0.4 % or at least 1.0 % . Alternatively or additionally, said transmittance is at most 5 % or is at most 3 % or is at most 2 % . Said transmittance may be averaged across the whole cover .

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the sensor device comprises an optical sensor arranged at the second side of the cover . The optical sensor can comprise several or a plurality of photodiodes . The photodiodes can each be configured to measure an irradiance of electromagnetic radiation reaching the respective photodiode . Another expression for irradiance is flux density. The irradiance is given in W / m2. From the irradiance it is also possible to determine the illuminance which is given in lux . On at least some of the photodiodes an optical filter can be arranged. At least some of the optical filters can be different from each other . Thus, the optical sensor can be a spectral sensor . The spectral information obtained with the optical sensor can be used, for example, for supporting display management and automatic white balance of camera systems . The optical filters may be interference filters such as an optical cut-off filter, bandpass, long or short pass filters, dielectric filters, Fabry-Perot filters, plasmonic filters, meta structure filters and / or polymer filters .

[0012] The optical sensor can be a single-channel sensor . For example, the optical sensor is a so-called Y-sensor . A Y-sensor is configured to measure the y-coordinate in the CIE xyz-chromaticity diagram. That is, the optical sensor may be sensitive in the green spectral range, especially around 555 nm. A spectral sensitivity of the optical sensor may accordingly correspond to the CIE' s color matching function for green light .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0013] P2024, 1214 WO N - 3 -

[0014] The optical sensor can be a three-channel sensor . For example, the optical sensor has one channel for red light, one channel for green light and one channel for blue light . By way of example, the optical sensor is a XYZ-sensor measuring the blue, green and red coordinates in the CIE xyz-chromaticity diagram. The channels may thus have spectral sensitivities corresponding to the CIE' s color matching functions for blue, green and red light, respectively.

[0015] Instead of one optical sensor having three channels it is equivalently possible to have three different optical sensors for blue, green and red light, respectively.

[0016] The optical sensor can be a multi-channel sensor . For example, the optical sensor has at least five or at least eight or at least ten color channels .

[0017] The optical sensor can be arranged in a sensing cavity within the sensor device . The sensing cavity can have a sensing aperture . The sensing aperture can be arranged between the cover and the optical sensor .

[0018] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the sensor device comprises an optical structure that is arranged between the cover and the optical sensor . The optical structure can be at least partially transmissive for electromagnetic radiation, in particular, visible light . The optical structure can be at least partially reflective for electromagnetic radiation, in particular, visible light . The optical structure can be configured to act as an optical filter .

[0019] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the cover has a plurality of apertures . The apertures can2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0020] P2024, 1214 WO N 4

[0021] extend completely through the cover . The apertures can extend from the first side to the second side of the cover . The cover can comprise opaque structures between the apertures . This can mean, that the cover is not transparent in all areas of the cover but only in some areas . No electromagnetic radiation or nearly no electromagnetic radiation can pass the opaque structures . Thus, through the apertures electromagnetic radiation can pass to the optical structure and the optical sensor .

[0022] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical structure comprises a plurality of protrusions which each have a polygonal base area with at least three sides . The protrusions can be arranged next to each other . This can mean, that the protrusions are arranged within one plane . The protrusions can be in direct contact with each other, or the protrusions can be arranged spaced apart from each other . Each protrusion can comprise a three-dimensional body with a base area . The base area has a polygonal shape . This means, that the base area has at least three sides . The base area can thus have the shape of a triangle, of a rectangle, of a square, of a hexagon or of any other polygon with at least three sides . Each protrusion can have the shape of a pyramid with a polygonal base area . The protrusions can all have the same shape . The protrusions can all have the same size . The protrusions can all be identical . The protrusions can be formed by hot stamping.

[0023] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions each extend along a vertical direction which extends perpendicular to a main plane of extension of the cover . The base area of each of the protrusions can extend parallel to the main plane of extension of the cover .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0024] P2024, 1214 WO N 5

[0025] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the lateral extension of each protrusion changes along the vertical direction, wherein the lateral extension is the extension within planes that extend perpendicular to the vertical direction. This can mean that the width of each of the protrusions changes along the vertical direction. The lateral extension of each protrusion can increase or decrease along the vertical direction. This can mean, that the lateral extension of each protrusion only increases or only decreases along the vertical direction. For each protrusion the lateral extension at the vertical position of the base area can be different from the lateral extension at other vertical positions . Each protrusion can taper towards the position of the protrusion that is the furthest away from the base area .

[0026] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions form an outer surface of the optical structure . This can mean, that the protrusions are arranged at an outer surface of the optical structure . Outer surfaces of the optical structure can be the surfaces of the optical structure that adjoin the surroundings of the optical structure . The optical structure can have several outer surfaces . One of these outer surfaces can be formed by the protrusions . This can mean, that the protrusions directly adjoin the surroundings of the optical structure . It is possible that all surfaces of the protrusions except for the base area adjoin the surroundings of the optical structure . Thus, all surfaces of the protrusions except for the base area can form an outer surface of the optical structure . This can mean that the protrusions protrude from a part of the optical structure .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0027] P2024, 1214 WO N 6

[0028] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the sensor device comprises a cover with a first side and a second side, the first side facing away from the second side, an optical sensor arranged at the second side of the cover, and an optical structure that is arranged between the cover and the optical sensor, wherein the cover has a plurality of apertures, the optical structure comprises a plurality of protrusions which each have a polygonal base area with at least three sides, the protrusions each extend along a vertical direction which extends perpendicular to a main plane of extension of the cover, the lateral extension of each protrusion changes along the vertical direction, wherein the lateral extension is the extension within planes that extend perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the protrusions form an outer surface of the optical structure .

[0029] Due to the apertures, the cover has a transmission coefficient that depends on the angle of incidence of incoming electromagnetic radiation. Thus, the irradiance detected by the optical sensor depends on the angle of incidence of incoming electromagnetic radiation. Typically, the irradiance-versus-angle-of-incidence curve follows the shape of a cosine function. Thus, also without a cover being arranged above the optical sensor, the measured irradiance depends on the angle of incidence of incoming radiation. A cosine compensation factor can be determined to remove the influence of the angle of incidence from the measurement of the optical sensor . The cosine compensation factor is equal to 1 over the cosine of the angle of incidence .

[0030] With the cover being arranged above the optical sensor, the irradiance-versus-angle-of-incidence curve differs from this cosine function. Therefore, a correction with the cosine2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0031] P2024, 1214 WO N - 7 -

[0032] compensation factor does not lead to the correct irradiance anymore . For this reason, the optical structure with the protrusions is introduced.

[0033] The optical structure is formed in such a way that it can act as a filter that compensates or at least reduces the angular dependency introduced by the cover . The geometrical shape of the optical structure with the protrusions leads to the optical structure acting as a filter that compensates or at least reduces the angular dependency introduced by the cover . As a result, the irradiance-versus-angle-of-incidence curve behind the optical structure is more similar to a cosine function than the irradiance-versus-angle-of-incidence curve in front of the optical structure . The front of the optical structure faces the cover and behind the optical structure the optical sensor is arranged. This means, the irradiance measured by the optical sensor can be corrected with the cosine compensation factor and this correction leads to a more accurate measurement of the irradiance in front of the cover than without the optical structure .

[0034] This means, it is possible to determine the irradiance in front of the cover and not only behind the cover where the optical sensor is arranged. In most cases it is desired to determine the irradiance in front of the cover since this is where potential users are present . The sensor device described herein enables to determine the irradiance in front of the cover . Thus, the accuracy of determining the irradiance is improved.

[0035] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical structure has a first transmission coefficient for electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0036] P2024, 1214 WO N - 8 -

[0037] 0° with respect to the vertical direction and the optical structure has a second transmission coefficient for electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of more than 0° with respect to the vertical direction, wherein the second transmission coefficient is larger than the first transmission coefficient . This means, that the optical structure partially blocks electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of 0° with respect to the vertical direction. This enables to reduce or compensate the influence of the cover on the measurement of the irradiance by the optical sensor . The cover has a higher transmission coefficient for electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of 0° with respect to the vertical direction than for electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of more than 0° with respect to the vertical direction. Thus, the optical structure can compensate or reduce this influence of the cover . That the second transmission coefficient is larger than the first transmission coefficient is for example achieved by electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of 0° with respect to the vertical direction being reflected twice within the protrusions . The electromagnetic radiation that is reflected twice within the protrusions does not reach the optical sensor .

[0038] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions each have a circular base area . For each protrusion the base area has thus the shape of a circle . This can mean that each protrusion can have the shape of a circular pyramid. A circular base area has the advantage that the transmission behavior of the optical structure is or nearly is rotationally symmetric . This can mean that no or nearly no further angular dependency of the transmission2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0039] P2024, 1214 WO N - 9 -

[0040] behavior is introduced. This leads to a more accurate measurement of the irradiance of the optical sensor .

[0041] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions are arranged at lattice points of a lattice . The lattice is a two-dimensional lattice . The protrusions can thus be arranged in a regular two-dimensional array. In this way, a uniform distribution of the transmitted radiation can be achieved. This improves the accuracy of detecting radiation by the optical sensor .

[0042] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the lattice is a hexagonal lattice . A hexagonal lattice has the advantage that the protrusions can be arranged in a compact way so that the area covered by the protrusions is increased. This enables that the protrusions act as a filter to incoming electromagnetic radiation over a large area .

[0043] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical structure has a carrier part out of which the protrusions extend. The carrier part can have a main plane of extension that extends parallel to the main plane of extension of the cover . The protrusions can be arranged on the carrier part, so that the protrusions extend out of the carrier part . In other words, the protrusions can protrude from the carrier part . The carrier part and the protrusions can be formed as one piece . This shape of the optical structure enables that the optical structure acts as a filter to compensate for or at least to reduce the impact of the cover on the measurement of the irradiance by the optical sensor .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0044] P2024, 1214 WO N - 10 -

[0045] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, at least one absorbing portion is arranged on the carrier part between the protrusions, wherein the absorbing portion has an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7. It is also possible that the absorbing portion has an absorption coefficient of at least 0.8 are at least 0.9. The absorbing portion can be formed by printing. The absorbing portion can be arranged on a part of the carrier part that extends parallel to the main plane of extension of the carrier part . A plurality of absorbing portions can be arranged between the protrusions . The spaces between the protrusions can be partly or completely covered by absorbing portions . Arranging the absorbing portion on the carrier part has the advantage that electromagnetic radiation that does not pass the protrusions is mainly absorbed by the absorbing portion. The protrusions act as a filter for electromagnetic radiation. This means, electromagnetic radiation that does not pass the protrusions but other parts of the optical structure is not or nearly not influenced by the protrusions . Thus, for electromagnetic radiation passing other parts of the optical structure than the protrusions, no compensation or reduction of the influence of the cover is achieved. In order to reduce the fraction of this electromagnetic radiation in the radiation reaching the optical sensor, the absorbing portion is arranged on the carrier part . In this way, a desired degree of reduction or compensation of the influence of the cover on the measurement of the irradiance by the optical sensor can be achieved.

[0046] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions are exclusively arranged at one side of the carrier part . This can mean, that the protrusions are either arranged only at the side of the carrier part that faces the2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0047] P2024, 1214 WO N - 11 -

[0048] optical sensor or only at the side of the carrier part that faces the cover . With this arrangement it can be achieved that the optical structure acts as a filter to compensate for or at least to reduce the impact of the cover on the measurement of the irradiance by the optical sensor .

[0049] Furthermore, since the protrusions are arranged only at one side of the carrier part, the fabrication of the optical structure is simplified.

[0050] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions are arranged at two opposing sides of the carrier part . This can mean, that the protrusions are arranged at the side of the carrier part that faces the optical sensor and at the side of the carrier part that faces the cover . At each of the two opposing sides of the carrier part a plurality of protrusions can be arranged. With this arrangement it can be achieved that the optical structure acts as a filter to compensate for or at least to reduce the impact of the cover on the measurement of the irradiance by the optical sensor .

[0051] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, a diffuser is arranged between the optical structure and the optical sensor . The diffuser can be a Lambertian diffuser . In this way, electromagnetic radiation reaching the optical sensor is homogenously distributed. This enables to determine the spectral composition of incoming radiation irrespective of the angle of incidence .

[0052] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical structure has a transmission coefficient of at least 0.3. The optical structure can have a transmission coefficient for visible light of at least 0.3 or at least2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0053] P2024, 1214 WO N - 12 -

[0054] 0.5. In this way, electromagnetic radiation can pass the optical structure and reach the optical sensor .

[0055] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical structure comprises a plastic material . For example, the optical structure comprises polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) . In this way, the optical structure has a high transmission coefficient for visible light .

[0056] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the cover comprises a display. The display can comprise a plurality of light-emitting pixels . For example, the pixels are configured to independently emit red, green and blue light . Thus, the display can be configured for displaying picture content at the first side of the display. The picture content is, for example, an image, a video, or a hologram. The image or the video could either be a two-dimensional or also a three-dimensional representation, like a stereoscopic representation .

[0057] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical sensor comprises an ambient light sensor . The ambient light sensor can be configured to detect electromagnetic radiation with different angles of incidence . Thus, the sensor device enables to detect electromagnetic radiation coming from different directions with a high accuracy .

[0058] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions have rounded edges . This can mean, that edges of the protrusions are not sharp or pointed but rounded or truncated. Edges of the protrusions can for example be arranged between side surfaces of the protrusions and the2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0059] P2024, 1214 WO N - 13 -

[0060] base area of the protrusions . Rounded edges of the protrusions can lead to a more homogeneous transmission of electromagnetic radiation through the optical structure .

[0061] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the protrusions each have a top area at a side facing away from the base area and the top area extends perpendicular to the vertical direction. The top area can be smaller than the base area . Protrusions with a top area have the advantage that an absorbing layer can be arranged on the top area .

[0062] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, an absorbing layer is arranged on the top area for each protrusion, wherein the absorbing layer has an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7. It is also possible that the absorbing layer has an absorption coefficient of at least 0.8 are at least 0.9. The absorbing layer can be formed by printing. The absorbing layer can cover the top area completely for each protrusion. Arranging the absorbing area on the top area has the advantage that electromagnetic radiation that passes the protrusions up to the top area is mainly absorbed by the absorbing layer . The protrusions act as a filter for electromagnetic radiation that does not reach or pass the top area . This means, electromagnetic radiation that passes the top area is not or nearly not influenced by the protrusions . Thus, for electromagnetic radiation passing the top area, no compensation or reduction of the influence of the cover is achieved. In order to reduce the fraction of this electromagnetic radiation in the radiation reaching the optical sensor, the absorbing layer is arranged on the top area .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0063] P2024, 1214 WO N - 14 -

[0064] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the optical structure comprises a plurality of further protrusions which are different in size and / or shape in comparison to the protrusions . The further protrusions can be smaller than the protrusions . The further protrusions can be arranged within one plane . The further protrusions can be arranged spaced apart from each other . Each further protrusion can comprise a three-dimensional body with a base area . The base area has a polygonal shape . This means, that the base area has at least three sides . The base area can thus have the shape of a triangle, of a rectangle, of a square, of a hexagon or of any other polygon with at least three sides . The further protrusions can each have the shape of a pyramid with a polygonal base area . The further protrusions can all have the same shape . The further protrusions can all have the same size . The further protrusions can all be identical . Alternatively, the further protrusions can be different in size and / or shape . The further protrusions can be formed by hot stamping. The further protrusions can be arranged on the carrier part, so that the further protrusions extend out of the carrier part . In other words, the further protrusions can protrude from the carrier part . The carrier part and the further protrusions can be formed as one piece . By employing protrusions and further protrusions the area of the carrier part can be mostly covered by protrusions and further protrusions . Thus, the carrier part can be efficiently covered with protrusions and further protrusions . This improves the efficiency of the optical structure to act as a filter for compensating or at least reducing the effect of the cover on the measurement of the irradiance by the optical sensor .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0065] P2024, 1214 WO N - 15 -

[0066] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the further protrusions are each arranged between at least two protrusions . The further protrusions can each be arranged between at least two protrusions along a lateral direction that extends parallel to the main plane of extension of the cover . By arranging the further protrusions between the protrusions, the carrier part can be mostly covered with protrusions and further protrusions .

[0067] According to at least one embodiment of the sensor device, the further protrusions are arranged at lattice points of a lattice . The lattice is a two-dimensional lattice . The further protrusions can thus be arranged in a regular two-dimensional array. In this way, a uniform distribution of the transmitted radiation can be achieved. This improves the accuracy of detecting radiation by the optical sensor .

[0068] The following description of figures may further illustrate and explain exemplary embodiments . Components that are functionally identical or have an identical effect are denoted by identical references . Identical or effectively identical components might be described only with respect to the figures where they occur first . Their description is not necessarily repeated in successive figures .

[0069] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the sensor device .

[0070] In figures 2A and 2B a part of an exemplary embodiment of the sensor device is shown.

[0071] In figures 3A and 3B a part of another exemplary embodiment of the sensor device is shown.2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0072] P2024, 1214 WO N - 16 -

[0073] Figure 4 shows one protrusion according to an exemplary embodiment .

[0074] Figures 5 and 6 show the arrangement of protrusions according to exemplary embodiments .

[0075] Figures 7 and 8 show the angular dependency of detected electromagnetic radiation.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a part of another exemplary embodiment of the sensor device .

[0077] Figure 10 shows a top view on a part of the optical structure according to another exemplary embodiment .

[0078] Figure 1 shows a cross-section through an exemplary embodiment of the sensor device 20. The sensor device 20 comprises a cover 21 with a first side 22 and a second side 23, the first side 22 facing away from the second side 23. The cover 21 has a plurality of apertures 26. Each of the apertures 26 extends completely through the cover 21 from the first side 22 to the second side 23. The cover 21 can comprise a display.

[0079] The sensor device 20 further comprises an optical sensor 24 arranged at the second side 23 of the cover 21. The sensor device 20 can comprise several optical sensors 24. As an example, two optical sensors 24 are shown in figure 1. The optical sensor 24 can comprise an ambient light sensor .

[0080] Between the cover 21 and the optical sensor 24 an optical structure 25 is arranged. The optical structure 25 comprises a plurality of protrusions 27 which each have a polygonal2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0081] P2024, 1214 WO N - 17 -

[0082] base area 29 with at least three sides . The base area 29 in each case extends parallel to the main plane of extension of the cover 21. Thus, only a cross-section through the base area 29 is visible in figure 1. The protrusions 27 each extend along a vertical direction z which extends perpendicular to a main plane of extension of the cover 21. The lateral extension of each protrusion 27 changes along the vertical direction z, wherein the lateral extension is the extension within planes that extend perpendicular to the vertical direction z . In the embodiment of figure 1 the lateral extension of each of the protrusions 27 decreases along the vertical direction z towards the optical sensor 24.

[0083] The protrusions 27 form an outer surface 28 of the optical structure 25. This means, the protrusions 27 directly adjoin the surroundings of the optical structure 25. The optical structure 25 has a carrier part 30 out of which the protrusions 27 extend. The protrusions 27 are exclusively arranged at one side of the carrier part 30. The optical structure 25 can have a transmission coefficient of at least 0.3. The optical structure 25 can comprise a plastic material .

[0084] A diffuser 31 is arranged between the optical structure 25 and the optical sensor 24.

[0085] The components of the sensor device 20 shown in figure 1 can be in contact with each other or they can be arranged spaced apart from each other within the sensor device 20.

[0086] Figure 2A shows the same view on the optical structure 25 as shown in figure 1.2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0087] P2024, 1214 WO N 18

[0088] Figure 2B shows a top view on a part of the optical structure 25. As an example, six protrusions 27 of the optical structure 25 are shown. Each protrusion 27 has a circular base area 29. Furthermore, each protrusion 27 has a top area 32 at a side facing away from the base area 29. The top area 32 extends perpendicular to the vertical direction z . An absorbing layer 33 is arranged on the top area 32 for each protrusion 27, wherein the absorbing layer 33 has an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7.

[0089] The protrusions 27 are arranged at lattice points of a two-dimensional lattice .

[0090] Figure 3A shows the same view on the optical structure 25 as shown in figure 1.

[0091] Figure 3B shows a top view on a part of the optical structure 25. As an example, six protrusions 27 of the optical structure 25 are shown. The embodiment of figure 3B is different from the embodiment of figure 2B in that the protrusions 27 have rounded edges . Moreover, the optical structure 25 comprises a plurality of further protrusions 34 which are different in size in comparison to the protrusions 27. The further protrusions 34 are each arranged between at least two protrusions 27. Thus, the further protrusions 34 cover 21 the empty spaces between the protrusions 27. As the protrusions 27 are arranged at lattice points of a lattice, the further protrusions 34 are arranged at lattice points of a lattice as well .

[0092] Each further protrusion 34 has a top area 32 at a side facing away from the base area 29. The top area 32 extends perpendicular to the vertical direction z . An absorbing layer2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0093] P2024, 1214 WO N - 19 -

[0094] 33 can be arranged on the top area 32 for each further protrusion 34, wherein the absorbing layer 33 has an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7.

[0095] Figure 4 shows one protrusion 27 according to an exemplary embodiment . The protrusion 27 has a hexagonal base area 29. Thus, the protrusion 27 has six side surfaces 35.

[0096] Furthermore, the protrusion 27 has a top area 32.

[0097] In figure 5 the arrangement of protrusions 27 on the carrier part 30 is shown. Each protrusion 27 has a hexagonal shaped base area 29. Furthermore, the protrusions 27 are arranged at lattice points of a hexagonal lattice . The protrusions 27 directly adjoin each other .

[0098] In figure 6 another arrangement of protrusions 27 on the carrier part 30 is shown. Each protrusion 27 has a hexagonal shaped base area 29. The protrusions 27 are arranged at lattice points of a hexagonal lattice in a honeycomb structure . The protrusions 27 do not directly adjoin each other .

[0099] Figure 7 shows the angular dependency of detected electromagnetic radiation. On the x-axis the angle of incidence of electromagnetic radiation reaching the cover 21 is plotted. On the y-axis the efficiency of detecting the irradiance is plotted with the upper line . This curve has the shape of a cosine function. This means, for an angle of incidence of 0° , the irradiance is correctly detected. Once the angle of incidence is different from 0° , the detected irradiance is decreased. This curve refers to an ideal situation. Furthermore, on the y-axis the efficiency of detecting the irradiance behind the cover 21 is plotted as2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0100] P2024, 1214 WO N 20

[0101] the lower line . This means, also the cover 21 has an impact on the detected irradiance .

[0102] With figure 8 the principle of compensation of the sensor device 20 is shown. On the x-axis the angle of incidence of electromagnetic radiation reaching the cover 21 is plotted. On the y-axis the efficiency of detecting the irradiance is plotted. The medium thick line is the efficiency of detecting the irradiance behind the cover 21 that is also shown in figure 7. The thick line is the transmission coefficient of the optical structure 25. The transmission coefficient of the optical structure 25 behaves in an opposite way in comparison to the efficiency of detecting the irradiance behind the cover 21. In this way, with the optical structure 25 the influence of the cover 21 on the measurement of the irradiance can be compensated or at least reduced. The thin line shows the result of the compensation or reduction. This means, the thin line shows the efficiency of detecting irradiance behind the optical structure 25, this means at the position of the optical sensor 24. The thin line closely resembles the upper line shown in figure 7, but with a reduced total amount of irradiance . Thus, it is possible to determine the irradiance in front of the cover 21 from the irradiance measured by the optical sensor 24.

[0103] Figure 9 shows the optical structure 25 according to an exemplary embodiment of the sensor device 20. In comparison to the optical structure 25 is shown in figure 2A, in figure 9 the protrusions 27 are arranged at two opposing sides of the carrier part 30.

[0104] Figure 10 shows a top view on a part of the optical structure 25 according to another exemplary embodiment . Between the2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0105] P2024, 1214 WO N - 21 -

[0106] protrusions 27, absorbing portions 36 are arranged on the carrier part 30, wherein the absorbing portions 36 have an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7. The absorbing portions 36 can have any shape .

[0107] It will be appreciated that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments and to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove . Rather, features recited in separate dependent claims or in the description may advantageously be combined. Furthermore, the scope of the disclosure includes those variations and modifications, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art . The term "comprising" , insofar it was used in the claims or in the description, does not exclude other elements or steps of a corresponding feature or procedure . In case that the terms "a" or "an" were used in conjunction with features, they do not exclude a plurality of such features . Moreover, any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope .

[0108] This patent application claims priority from German patent application 10 2025 101 109.5, the disclosure content of which is hereby included by reference .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025

[0109] P2024, 1214 WO N

[0110] - 22 -

[0111] References

[0112] 20 sensor device

[0113] 21 cover

[0114] 22 first side

[0115] 23 second side

[0116] 24 optical sensor

[0117] 25 optical structure

[0118] 26 aperture

[0119] 27 protrusion

[0120] 28 outer surface

[0121] 29 base area

[0122] 30 carrier part

[0123] 31 diffuser

[0124] 32 top area

[0125] 33 absorbing layer

[0126] 34 further protrusion

[0127] 35 side surface

[0128] 36 absorbing portion

[0129] z vertical direction

Claims

2024P01772WO December 11, 2025P2024, 1214 WO N - 23 -Claims1. Sensor device (20) comprising:- a cover (21 ) with a first side (22 ) and a second side (23) , the first side (22 ) facing away from the second side (23) , - an optical sensor (24 ) arranged at the second side (23) of the cover (21 ) , and- an optical structure (25) that is arranged between the cover (21 ) and the optical sensor (24 ) , wherein- the cover (21 ) has a plurality of apertures (26) ,- the optical structure (25) comprises a plurality of protrusions (27 ) which each have a polygonal base area (29) with at least three sides,- the protrusions (27 ) each extend along a vertical direction ( z) which extends perpendicular to a main plane of extension of the cover (21 ) ,- the lateral extension of each protrusion (27 ) changes along the vertical direction ( z) , wherein the lateral extension is the extension within planes that extend perpendicular to the vertical direction ( z) , and- the protrusions (27 ) form an outer surface (28 ) of the optical structure (25) .

2. Sensor device (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the optical structure has a first transmission coefficient for electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of 0° with respect to the vertical direction and the optical structure has a second transmission coefficient for electromagnetic radiation with an angle of incidence of more than 0° with respect to the vertical direction, wherein the second transmission coefficient is larger than the first transmission coefficient .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025P2024, 1214 WO N - 24 -3. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusions (27 ) each have a circular base area (29) .

4. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusions (27 ) are arranged at lattice points of a lattice .

5. Sensor device (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the lattice is a hexagonal lattice .

6. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical structure (25) has a carrier part (30) out of which the protrusions (27 ) extend.

7. Sensor device (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein an absorbing portion (36) is arranged on the carrier part (30) between the protrusions (27 ) , wherein the absorbing portion (36) has an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7.

8. Sensor device (20) according to one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the protrusions (27 ) are exclusively arranged at one side of the carrier part (30) .

9. Sensor device (20) according to one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the protrusions (27 ) are arranged at two opposing sides of the carrier part (30) .

10. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a diffuser (31 ) is arranged between the optical structure (25) and the optical sensor (24 ) .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025P2024, 1214 WO N - 25 -11. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical structure (25) has a transmission coefficient of at least 0.3.

12. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical structure (25) comprises a plastic material .

13. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover (21 ) comprises a display.

14. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical sensor (24 ) comprises an ambient light sensor .

15. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusions (27 ) have rounded edges .

16. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusions (27 ) each have a top area (32 ) at a side facing away from the base area (29) and the top area (32 ) extends perpendicular to the vertical direction ( z) .

17. Sensor device (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein an absorbing layer (33) is arranged on the top area (32 ) for each protrusion (27 ) , wherein the absorbing layer (33) has an absorption coefficient of more than 0.7.

18. Sensor device (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical structure (25) comprises a plurality of further protrusions (34 ) which are different in size and / or shape in comparison to the protrusions (27 ) .2024P01772WO December 11, 2025P2024, 1214 WO N - 26 -19. Sensor device (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the further protrusions (34 ) are each arranged between at least two protrusions (27 ) .

20. Sensor device (20) according to one of the claims 18 to 19, wherein the further protrusions (34 ) are arranged at lattice points of a lattice .

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