Image Sensor Package Light Blocking Structure for Flare and ESD

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Solution Overview

Problem

Image sensor packages are susceptible to flare caused by light reflection, leading to noise in captured images and potential damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD) charging.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a light blocking member coupled to or defined by a transparent member, such as a non-transparent layer or dam member, which reduces flare and ESD charging by blocking light and dissipating static electricity, and can be integrated with the encapsulation material or positioned between the transparent member and the image sensor die.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a transparent member is coupled to the image sensor die, then protection and structural support are improved, but light reflection causing flare and noise increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection and structural supportVSAvoidlight reflection causing flare and noise
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A light blocking member is introduced as an intermediary element between the transparent member and the image sensor die. This member blocks light from entering the empty space where it would cause flare, while still allowing the transparent member to provide its protective and structural functions. The light blocking member effectively mediates between the need for protection and the need to prevent light reflection issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the transparent member is positioned close to the image sensor die, then structural compactness is improved, but light reflection and ESD charging risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural compactnessVSAvoidlight reflection and ESD charging risks
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The light blocking member serves as a mediator that enables the transparent member to be positioned closer to the image sensor die without creating harmful effects. By blocking light paths and providing ESD protection, the light blocking member allows for a more compact structure while mitigating the risks of light reflection and electrostatic discharge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The light blocking member is strategically positioned in specific locations where light reflection and ESD charging are most problematic. This localized approach provides protection exactly where needed, allowing the overall structure to remain compact while addressing harmful factors at critical points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Device complexity

If no light blocking member is used, then device complexity is reduced, but flare and noise in captured images increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidimage quality with reduced noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The light blocking member acts as a relatively simple intermediary component that significantly improves image quality by reducing flare and noise. While it does add a component to the device, its straightforward function and integration make it a cost-effective solution for achieving higher manufacturing precision in terms of image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The solution effectively reduces noise in captured images and prevents damage to the image sensor die by minimizing flare and ESD effects, enhancing image quality and device reliability.

Implementation Method 1

a light blocking member coupled to or defined by the transparent member... configured to block light... reduces flare and ESD charging by blocking light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight blocking: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS12068345B2Image sensor package having a light blocking member
Publication Date: 2024.08.20 SEMICON COMPONENTS IND LLC
  • US12068345B2 patent drawing
  • US12068345B2 patent drawing
  • US12068345B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to an aspect, an image sensor package includes a substrate, an image sensor die coupled to the substrate, and a transparent member including a first surface and a second surface, where the second surface of the transparent member is coupled to the image sensor die via one or more dam members such that an empty space exists between an active area of the image sensor die and the second surface of the transparent member. The image sensor package includes a light blocking member coupled to or defined by the transparent member.