Image Sensor Filter Layout for Light Guiding and Color Mixing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices face inefficiencies in light reception and color mixing, leading to reduced quantum efficiency and image quality.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device incorporates first and second light guiding members with varying refractive indices to guide light towards specific photoelectric conversion sections, enhancing light collection and reducing color mixing by using materials like silicon nitride and titanium oxide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If light guiding members with different refractive indices are used, then light collection efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different refractive indices to different light guiding members based on their specific positions and functions. The first light guiding member has a first refractive index optimized for guiding light from the first color filter, while the second light guiding member has a second refractive index optimized for the second color filter. This localized optimization of optical properties improves overall light collection efficiency without requiring complete redesign of the entire device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the refractive index parameter of the light guiding members. By selecting materials with different refractive indices (first refractive index for the first light guiding member, second refractive index for the second light guiding member), the patent optimizes light guidance for different wavelength ranges and filter characteristics, thereby improving light collection efficiency while managing device complexity through controlled parameter variation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple filters with different refractive indices are used, then color mixing is suppressed, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent suppresses color mixing by assigning specific refractive indices to light guiding members positioned adjacent to specific color filters. The first light guiding member with the first refractive index is positioned to guide light from the first color filter, while the second light guiding member with the second refractive index is positioned for the second color filter. This localized matching of optical properties prevents light from one filter from being incorrectly guided to adjacent photoelectric conversion sections, thereby suppressing color mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guiding members act as intermediaries between the color filters and the photoelectric conversion sections. By introducing these intermediate structures with controlled refractive indices, the patent creates a buffer zone that prevents direct interaction between light from one filter and adjacent photoelectric conversion sections, thereby suppressing color mixing while managing manufacturing precision through the use of standard optical materials.
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 improves quantum efficiency and suppresses color mixing, resulting in more efficient light collection and improved image quality.
Implementation Method 1
a first light guiding member that guides light toward the first photoelectric conversion section; a second light guiding member that guides light toward the second photoelectric conversion section
Implementation Method 2
a first photoelectric conversion section that performs photoelectric conversion on light transmitted through the first filter; a second photoelectric conversion section that performs photoelectric conversion on light transmitted through the second filter
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first filter having a first refractive index for entering light, a first photoelectric conversion section that performs photoelectric conversion on light transmitted through the first filter, a second filter that has a second refractive index lower than the first refractive index for entering light and is adjacent to the first filter, a second photoelectric conversion section that performs photoelectric conversion on light transmitted through the second filter, a first medium that is provided on an opposite side of the first photoelectric conversion section as viewed from the first filter and has a third refractive index for entering light, and a second medium that is provided on an opposite side of the second photoelectric conversion section as viewed from the second filter and has a fourth refractive index higher than the third refractive index for entering light.