Light-collecting device with concentric annular regions and gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light-collecting devices in solid-state imaging apparatuses face challenges in stable manufacturing due to variability in structure size and configuration, leading to yield decrease and characteristic variability, especially when forming structures narrower than the minimum producible size, which results in distorted or disappearing configurations.
Innovation Solution
A light-collecting device with at least one first annular region and one second annular region, each having a different refractive index, are alternately arranged in a concentric manner, with a gap where the width of the annular region gradually decreases, preventing the structure from distorting or disappearing and maintaining stability during semiconductor manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the width of the annular region is made narrower than the minimum producible size, then the light-collecting device achieves better optical performance, but the structure becomes distorted or disappears during manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gap as an intermediary element between the first and second annular regions. This gap prevents the annular regions from being too narrow while maintaining the optical functionality of the light-collecting device. The gap acts as a mediator that allows the structure to be manufactured reliably without compromising the optical performance that would be achieved with narrower annular regions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the position of the photodetecting device is displaced to accommodate large incident angles, then the pixel characteristics are maintained, but the circuit layout becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light-collecting function from the photodetecting device by introducing the light-collecting device as a separate component with specific annular regions. This segmentation allows the photodetecting device to remain in its standard position within the pixel, maintaining simple circuit layout, while the light-collecting device handles the adaptation to large incident angles through its optical design.
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 allows for stable production of light-collecting devices, preventing yield decrease and characteristic variability, while ensuring the structure remains functional and effective across varying incident angles.
Implementation Method 1
a first annular region having a first refractive index, and at least one second annular region having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index, the at least one first annular region and the at least one second annular region are adjacently and alternately arranged in a concentric manner
Data Source
AI summary
A light-collecting device includes at least one first annular region having a first refractive index, and at least one second annular region having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index, the at least one first annular region and the at least one second annular region are adjacently and alternately arranged in a concentric manner, and at least one of the at least one first annular region and the at least one second annular region includes a gap at a portion where a width of the annular region gradually decreases.