Infrared Sensor Absorption Layer Segmentation for Response Time

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional infrared sensors have a longer response time and higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which are not sufficient to meet the requirements of modern industrial applications.

Innovation Solution

The design includes a substrate with an infrared absorption layer and concaves extending towards the substrate, enhancing radiation absorption and incorporating a thermal conduction layer and thermoelectric elements to improve energy absorption efficiency and reduce response time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If a conventional layer structure with infrared absorption layer entirely covering the thermal layer is used, then the sensor structure is simple and complete, but the response time is long and the signal-to-noise ratio is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse timeVSAvoidsignal-to-noise ratio
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the infrared absorption layer into multiple regions: a first region that entirely covers the thermal layer, and a second region that partially covers the thermal layer. This segmentation allows different portions of the thermal layer to have different functions - some areas are fully covered for stable signal generation, while other areas are partially covered to enable faster thermal response and reduced noise, thereby resolving the contradiction between response time and signal-to-noise ratio

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating spatially varying coverage characteristics of the infrared absorption layer. The first region provides complete coverage for areas requiring stable thermal signals, while the second region provides partial coverage for areas requiring faster response. This local differentiation optimizes both response time and signal-to-noise ratio in different zones of the sensor

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Measurement precision

If the infrared absorption layer entirely and completely covers the thermal layer, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the absorption efficiency and temperature measurement accuracy are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature measurement accuracyVSAvoidlayer structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the infrared absorption layer into two distinct regions with different coverage characteristics. The first region entirely covers the thermal layer for complete infrared absorption, while the second region partially covers the thermal layer to enhance thermal response. This segmentation improves temperature measurement accuracy by optimizing the absorption characteristics in different areas without requiring fundamentally new manufacturing processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimension of control by varying the coverage extent of the infrared absorption layer across different spatial regions. Instead of uniform coverage, the layer transitions from complete coverage in the first region to partial coverage in the second region, adding a dimensional variation in absorption characteristics that enhances measurement accuracy while maintaining manufacturing feasibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 results in a shorter response time and lower SNR, providing better absorption efficiency and more accurate temperature measurements.

Implementation Method 1

The infrared absorption layer absorbs the infrared energy irradiated from the object under test

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

After sensing an infrared energy, the thermal layer converts the infrared energy (heat) into an electric signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermoelectric effect: Seebeck Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10529876B2Infrared sensor and manufacturing method thereof
Publication Date: 2020.01.07 IND TECH RES INST
  • US10529876B2 patent drawing
  • US10529876B2 patent drawing
  • US10529876B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An infrared sensor including a substrate, an infrared absorption layer and a concave is provided. The infrared absorption layer is formed on a substrate and has a sensing surface. The concave extends toward the substrate from a sensing surface of the infrared absorption layer.