Dual Image Sensor Quantum Dot UV Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image sensors face challenges in detecting ultraviolet light due to low quantum efficiency and complex fabrication processes, limiting their ability to measure both visible and ultraviolet light effectively.
Innovation Solution
A dual image sensor system comprising first and second image sensor modules with a quantum dot layer that absorbs ultraviolet light and emits visible light, allowing for the detection of both visible and ultraviolet light using a simple mounting process on a conventional image sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional photodiode with wide band gap material (SOI, ZnO, TiO2, graphene) is used to detect ultraviolet light, then ultraviolet light sensitivity is improved, but the fabrication process becomes complicated and only quantity measurement is possible
Solution Approach 1:
A quantum dot layer is introduced as an intermediary between the lens and the image sensor. This quantum dot layer absorbs ultraviolet light and converts it to visible light, which the conventional image sensor can then detect. This mediator approach enables ultraviolet detection using standard image sensors without requiring complex wide band gap material fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for complex photodiode fabrication with wide band gap materials by using a quantum dot-based optical conversion system. Instead of modifying the image sensor's mechanical/electrical structure to detect ultraviolet light directly, the system uses optical conversion through quantum dots to transform ultraviolet detection into visible light detection, which conventional sensors handle easily.
2Reliability
If silicon nitride (SiNx) is used as a luminescent material for energy down-shift to detect only ultraviolet light, then ultraviolet light detection sensitivity is improved, but visible light imaging capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The quantum dot layer is positioned specifically between the lens and the image sensor to perform selective ultraviolet absorption and visible light emission. This localized functional layer allows ultraviolet conversion while permitting visible light to pass through to the sensor, enabling both ultraviolet detection and visible light imaging capabilities to coexist in the same system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines the quantum dot layer with the conventional image sensor to create a composite detection system. The quantum dot layer handles ultraviolet conversion while the image sensor captures both the converted visible light and direct visible light, achieving multi-wavelength detection capability through material composition rather than单一 material limitation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a quantum dot layer is added to convert ultraviolet light to visible light, then both visible and ultraviolet light detection become possible, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The quantum dot layer is implemented as a thin film structure between the lens and image sensor. This thin film approach adds minimal structural complexity while achieving the desired optical conversion function. The layer is sufficiently thin to allow visible light transmission while maintaining effective ultraviolet absorption and conversion capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The quantum dot layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an ultraviolet absorber, a visible light emitter, and an optical converter. By integrating these functions into a single layer rather than requiring separate components for each function, the overall device structure complexity is minimized while achieving multi-wavelength detection capability.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional image sensors are used without quantum dot layer, then the manufacturing process remains simple, but ultraviolet light cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The quantum dot layer is prepared and positioned in advance during the manufacturing process, before the final assembly is completed. This preliminary action allows the ultraviolet conversion function to be integrated into the standard manufacturing workflow without requiring post-assembly modifications or complex additional fabrication steps, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while adding detection capability.
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
Enables the measurement of a depth profile by absorbing light in different wavelength bands, improving ultraviolet light sensitivity and allowing for clear imaging of both visible and ultraviolet light, thereby enhancing the imaging capabilities of the sensor.
Implementation Method 1
a quantum dot layer formed between the second image sensor and the second lens and absorbing ultraviolet light and emitting visible light converted from the absorbed ultraviolet light
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a dual image sensor. The dual image sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention includes first and second image sensor modules mounted on a printed circuit board, wherein the first image sensor module includes a first housing mounted on the printed circuit board; a first image sensor mounted on the printed circuit board and formed on a first surface of the first housing; and a first lens formed on a second surface of the first housing, and the second image sensor module includes a second housing mounted on the printed circuit board; a second image sensor mounted on the printed circuit board and formed on a first surface of the second housing; a second lens formed on a second surface of the second housing; and a quantum dot layer formed between the second image sensor and the second lens and absorbing ultraviolet light and emitting visible light converted from the absorbed ultraviolet light.