Color Separation Element Array for Image Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing color display devices and image sensors have low light efficiency due to color filters that absorb most incident light except for a specific wavelength band, resulting in significant optical loss.
Innovation Solution
A color separation element array with a transparent layer and multiple color separation elements of different refractive indices, arranged to change width ratios and positions based on incidence angles, enhancing light separation efficiency by varying the light travel path according to wavelength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If color filters are used to separate colors in a color image sensor, then color separation is achieved, but light efficiency decreases significantly due to absorption of most incident light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of color separation from absorption-based (color filters) to refraction-based (prism elements). By utilizing the refraction parameter and its wavelength-dependent nature (dispersion), the system achieves color separation without the energy loss inherent in absorption-based filtering. Different wavelengths are separated through angular deviation rather than selective absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the optical absorption mechanism with a refraction-based mechanical/optical system. Instead of using materials that absorb specific wavelengths (color filters), the invention employs prism elements that physically redirect light paths based on wavelength, replacing the absorption mechanism with a refraction and reflection mechanism that preserves light energy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RGB color filter scheme is used, then color image detection is enabled, but only about 33% of incident light is utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the incident light into different wavelength components using multiple prism elements arranged in arrays. Each prism element separates light into spectral components, and the segmented color separation elements (red, green, blue) are positioned to receive specific wavelength ranges. This segmentation approach allows all incident light to be directed to appropriate photodetectors rather than absorbing 67% of light as in traditional RGB filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional color filter plane to a three-dimensional light path manipulation system. By introducing vertical stacking of multiple prism elements and utilizing angular separation in the third dimension, the system directs different wavelengths to different spatial locations where corresponding color photodetectors are positioned, achieving full light utilization through spatial separation rather than spectral absorption.
3Loss of information
If color filters absorb light for color separation, then color information is obtained, but significant optical loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the natural phenomenon of light refraction and dispersion, which causes angular separation of wavelengths, into a beneficial mechanism for color separation. Instead of treating wavelength-dependent refraction as a distortion to be corrected, the invention utilizes this effect to directly separate colors spatially, directing each wavelength to its corresponding photodetector. This converts what could be seen as optical interference into the core mechanism for achieving both color information accuracy and high light efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration increases the efficiency of light usage by optimizing the arrangement of color separation elements, improving image quality and reducing optical loss across the image sensor, particularly at the edges where incidence angles are greater.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of color separation elements provided in the transparent layer and configured to separate an incident light into a color light according to wavelength bands, wherein the plurality of color separation elements include a first element having a first refractive index and a second element arranged in one side of the first element in a horizontal direction and having a second refractive index
Data Source
AI summary
A color separation element array, an image sensor including the color separation element array, and an electronic device including the color separation element array are provided. The color separation element array includes a plurality of color separation elements configured to separate an incident light into a color light according to wavelength bands in a transparent layer, the plurality of color separation elements including a first element and a second element having different refractive indices, and the first element and second element being arranged in a horizontal direction.