Solid-State Imaging Electrode Segmentation for Peeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge is to reduce peeling of the organic photoelectric conversion film in solid-state imaging devices while maintaining a suitable aperture ratio for super resolution technology, as a small aperture ratio leads to peeling issues but is necessary for high resolution imaging.

Innovation Solution

A solid-state imaging device configuration with a first electrode area ratio of 25% or less and a total area ratio of the first and second electrodes of 40% or greater, where the second electrode is positioned to separate the first electrodes of adjacent pixels, reducing peeling and enabling super resolution technology.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the aperture ratio (area ratio of the first electrode) is reduced to enable super resolution technology, then image resolution is improved, but peeling of the organic photoelectric conversion film occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidpeeling resistance of organic photoelectric conversion film
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the electrode structure into two separate electrodes (first electrode and second electrode) within the same layer. The first electrode has a small area ratio (25% or less) for super resolution imaging, while the second electrode compensates for adhesion by providing additional contact area with the organic photoelectric conversion film, preventing peeling despite the reduced aperture ratio

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter configuration by setting specific area ratio thresholds: the first electrode area ratio is 25% or less (enabling super resolution), while the total area ratio of both electrodes combined is 40% or greater (preventing peeling). This dual-parameter approach resolves the contradiction between resolution and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the area ratio of the first electrode is increased to improve adhesion and prevent peeling, then reliability is improved, but super resolution technology cannot be applied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepeeling resistance of organic photoelectric conversion filmVSAvoidimage resolution
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the electrode function into two parts: the first electrode (small area ratio ≤25%) maintains super resolution capability, while the second electrode (additional area) provides the necessary adhesion support. This functional segmentation allows each electrode to optimize for its specific purpose without compromising the other

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second electrode serves multiple functions: it provides adhesion support to prevent peeling, maintains electrical connectivity, and allows the first electrode to maintain its small aperture ratio for super resolution imaging. This multi-functionality resolves the trade-off between adhesion and resolution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 effectively reduces peeling of the organic photoelectric conversion film and allows for the application of super resolution technology, improving the reliability and image quality of the imaging device.

Implementation Method 1

an organic photoelectric conversion film including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being in contact with the first electrode and the second electrode; The first electrode is an electrode through which electrons or holes generated in the organic photoelectric conversion film are extracted

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9478760B2Solid-state imaging device, imaging module, and imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.10.25 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US9478760B2 patent drawing
  • US9478760B2 patent drawing
  • US9478760B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A solid-state imaging device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes pixel including: a first and second electrode located in a same layer, the second electrode being located between the first electrode and the other first electrodes included in adjacent pixels; an organic photoelectric conversion film including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being in contact with the first electrode and the second electrode; and a counter electrode located on the second surface. The organic photoelectric conversion film extends over the pixels. The first electrode is an electrode through which electrons or holes generated in the organic photoelectric conversion film are extracted. An area ratio of the first electrode to the each pixel is 25% or less. And a total area ratio of a sum of the first electrode and the second electrode to the each pixel is 40% or greater.