Optical sensor, optical sensor unit, optical sensor device, and information terminal device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical sensors using semiconductor pn junctions have limitations in further development and require new breakthroughs for enhanced performance.
Innovation Solution
An optical sensor comprising a wavelength filter and a magnetic element with a specific ferromagnetic layer configuration, where light passing through the wavelength filter is applied to the magnetic element for detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If semiconductor pn junction is used for optical detection, then the device can be manufactured with existing technology, but the light detection sensitivity and efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection mechanism from electrical signal generation (pn junction) to resistance change detection (magnetic element). By using a magnetic element whose resistance changes in response to light intensity, the patent achieves higher detection sensitivity while maintaining compatibility with existing semiconductor manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a wavelength filter layer and a magnetic element layer. This composite design allows the wavelength filter to select specific light wavelengths while the magnetic element detects light intensity through resistance changes, achieving both high sensitivity and manufacturability
2Productivity
If new optical sensor structure is implemented to improve detection sensitivity, then light detection efficiency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical sensor into two distinct functional segments: a wavelength filter layer that selects specific wavelengths and a magnetic element layer that detects light intensity. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system simplicity and high detection efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic element serves multiple functions: it acts as both the detection medium and the signal transducer. By using a material whose resistance changes in response to light, the patent eliminates the need for separate photodetector components, reducing device complexity while maintaining high detection efficiency
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 proposed optical sensor achieves improved light detection sensitivity and efficiency by utilizing the magnetic element's resistance change in response to light intensity, enabling high-resolution imaging and cost-effective manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
the magnetic element's resistance change in response to light intensity
Data Source
AI summary
An optical sensor includes a wavelength filter configured to transmit light in a specific wavelength range and a magnetic element including a first ferromagnetic layer, a second ferromagnetic layer, and a spacer layer sandwiched between the first ferromagnetic layer and the second ferromagnetic layer. The light passing through the wavelength filter is applied to the magnetic element and the light applied to the magnetic element is detected.