Organic Image Sensor Guard Ring Against Side Moisture Intrusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid-state image pickup devices with organic photoelectric conversion films face challenges in preventing moisture and gas intrusion from transverse directions, such as end surfaces and side surfaces of chips and apertures, which can deteriorate the organic film's characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state image pickup device is designed with a guard ring surrounding the functional region containing the organic film, formed by laminating metallic layers or embedding a metallic or silicon nitride film within a groove on the insulating film, to block moisture and gas intrusion from transverse directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a protective layer is provided on the transparent counter electrode to block moisture and gas, then moisture and gas intrusion from the top surface is suppressed, but moisture and gas intrusion from transverse directions (end surfaces and side surfaces) cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the protective function from the top surface (vertical dimension) to the side surfaces and end surfaces (transverse dimensions) by forming the protective layer to cover these additional surfaces, thereby blocking moisture and gas intrusion paths from all directions
Solution Approach 2:
The protective layer is divided into multiple segments: a first protective layer on the transparent counter electrode, and a second protective layer on the insulating film, with each segment covering specific surfaces to collectively provide comprehensive protection against moisture and gas from all directions
2Reliability
If the protective layer is extended to cover side surfaces and end surfaces, then protection against transverse intrusion is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protective function with existing structural layers: the first protective layer is integrated with the transparent counter electrode, and the second protective layer is integrated with the insulating film, thereby extending protection to transverse surfaces without adding completely separate manufacturing steps
Solution Approach 2:
The protective layers serve multiple functions: they protect the organic photoelectric conversion film from moisture and gas intrusion, and simultaneously form part of the electrode and insulating structures, thereby achieving comprehensive protection while maintaining manufacturing efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a solid-state image pickup device that includes a functional region provided with an organic film, and a guard ring surrounding the functional region.