Meta-Surface Image Sensor Layering for Low-Reflection Light Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing meta-surfaces in image sensors do not adequately address issues of high reflectivity and light transmission efficiency, leading to suboptimal image quality and performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a meta-surface layer with meta-pillars and an optical functional layer that replaces the conformal refractive index matching layer, where meta-pillars correspond to openings or optical functional pillars, reducing surface reflection and enhancing light transmittance and contrast.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a conformal refractive index matching layer is used on meta-surface layers, then manufacturing is simplified, but light transmission efficiency deteriorates due to high reflectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical functional layer as an intermediary between the meta-surface layer and the external environment. This layer contains optical functional pillars (refractive index: 1.5-2.5) that mediate the optical interaction, reducing surface reflection more effectively than a simple conformal coating while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized layer deposition processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures by combining meta-surface layers with specific refractive index ranges (1.3-2.8) with optical functional layers containing pillars of different refractive indices (1.5-2.5). This composite approach creates optimized optical pathways that reduce reflection losses while maintaining structural integrity and manufacturability.
2Measurement precision
If meta-surface layers are added to image sensors, then image quality is enhanced through aberration correction, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical correction function into distinct meta-surface layers, each with specific refractive index ranges (1.3-2.8), positioned at different locations within the image sensor. This segmentation allows for targeted correction of specific optical aberrations (spherical, chromatic) without requiring a complete redesign of the entire optical system, thereby managing complexity through modular functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The meta-surface layers are designed to perform multiple optical functions simultaneously: correcting spherical aberrations, correcting chromatic aberrations, and enhancing overall image quality. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate correction elements, thereby managing device complexity while achieving comprehensive optical optimization.
3Loss of energy
If optical functional pillars are introduced in the optical functional layer, then light transmission is enhanced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies refractive index parameter ranges for both meta-surface layers (1.3-2.8) and optical functional pillars (1.5-2.5) to optimize light transmission while accommodating manufacturing tolerances. By defining acceptable parameter ranges rather than requiring exact values, the design balances performance optimization with practical manufacturing capabilities, reducing the stringency of precision requirements.
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 improves light transmission efficiency, reduces reflection issues, and enhances image quality by stabilizing light phase and distribution, thereby improving the overall performance of the image sensor.
Implementation Method 1
These meta-surfaces are capable of manipulating the properties of electromagnetic waves (e.g. an incident wave)
Implementation Method 2
an optical functional layer on the meta-surface layer and covering the meta-surface layer
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes a meta-surface layer. The meta-surface layer includes a plurality of meta-pillars. The image sensor further includes an optical functional layer on the meta-surface layer and covering the meta-surface layer. In a pixel region, each of the meta-pillars of the meta-surface layer corresponds to at least one opening in the optical functional layer or to a plurality of optical functional pillars in the optical functional layer.