Image Sensor Protective Layer for X-Ray Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image sensors face damage from high-energy X-rays due to incomplete absorption by fluorescent materials, leading to weak sensor performance and reduced X-ray image resolution, as thicker fluorescent layers are required for protection but compromise image quality.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor design incorporating a protective layer between pixels and a conversion layer, where the protective layer blocks X-rays and allows X-rays to be converted into visible light closer to the photosensitive side, reducing pixel damage and enhancing light absorption, thereby improving image resolution without the need for thick fluorescent layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the thickness of the fluorescent material is increased to protect the sensor from X-ray damage, then the sensor performance is improved, but the resolution of the captured X-ray image deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the protective function into two separate components: a protective layer made of X-ray absorbing material that blocks harmful X-rays, and a conversion layer made of fluorescent material that converts remaining X-rays to visible light. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently - the protective layer for X-ray blocking and the conversion layer for light conversion efficiency - thereby resolving the contradiction between sensor protection and image resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective layer acts as an intermediary between the incident X-rays and the sensor. It selectively absorbs high-energy X-ray photons before they can directly damage the sensor, while allowing lower-energy photons to pass through to the conversion layer. This intermediary function protects the sensor without completely blocking the X-ray signal, thus maintaining image quality while improving sensor reliability.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the thickness of the fluorescent material is increased to absorb more X-rays, then more visible light is produced, but the image resolution deteriorates due to light scattering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the X-ray absorption function from the light conversion function into two distinct layers. The protective layer handles X-ray absorption and filtering, while the conversion layer handles fluorescent conversion. This segmentation allows the conversion layer to be kept thin for high resolution while the protective layer provides the necessary X-ray absorption, eliminating the need for a thick fluorescent layer that would cause light scattering and resolution loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different layers: the protective layer uses materials with high X-ray absorption coefficients to filter harmful radiation, while the conversion layer uses fluorescent materials optimized for light conversion efficiency. This local differentiation of material qualities allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between absorption rate and resolution.
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 protects pixels from X-ray damage while increasing the absorption rate of visible light, resulting in higher resolution X-ray images and safer operation.
Implementation Method 1
it is necessary to convert high-energy photons of X-rays into visible light with fluorescent materials
Implementation Method 2
the protective layer is a material capable of blocking X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an image sensor and electronic equipment. The image sensor includes: a pixel array, comprising a plurality of pixels, wherein a light-transmitting part is disposed between adjacent pixels; a protective layer, covering at least a part of a surface of the pixel; a conversion layer, configured to convert X-ray into visible light; wherein when X-ray is incident from a side of the image sensor, a portion of the X-ray is incident on the protective layer, another portion of X-ray transmits through the light-transmitting part between the pixels, reaches the conversion layer, and is converted into visible light by the conversion layer and received by the pixel. With the above solution, the pixels can be protected from the damage of X-ray high-energy photons while improving the resolution of the captured X-ray image.