Multispectral Image Sensor with Pixel Arrays for Simultaneous Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing spectral detection methods are inefficient and limited, requiring filter switching for different wavelengths, which restricts the spectrum detection range and is slow, and the optical filter switching unit is bulky, making it unsuitable for small spaces.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spectral image sensor with a pixel layer comprising multiple arrays of pixel units, each with different photosensitive wavelengths, allowing simultaneous detection of various spectrums without filter switching, and a manufacturing method that forms these pixel units on a front-end structure with metal interconnects and a micro-lens layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical filter switching unit is used for spectral detection, then spectral detection capability is achieved, but detection efficiency is low and device size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel layer is divided into multiple pixel units, where each pixel unit is equipped with a specific optical filter to detect a particular wavelength band. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection of multiple spectral bands across different pixel units, eliminating the need for sequential filter switching and significantly improving detection efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal multiplexing (sequential filter switching over time) to spatial multiplexing (parallel spectral detection across multiple pixel units in space). By arranging different optical filters in different spatial locations corresponding to different pixel units, the system achieves simultaneous multi-spectral detection without mechanical moving parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical filter switching unit is used for spectral detection, then spectral detection capability is achieved, but device size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the spectral filtering function from a separate mechanical filter switching unit and integrates it directly into the pixel layer structure. Each pixel unit incorporates its own optical filter, eliminating the need for a bulky external filter switching mechanism and reducing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical filter and pixel unit are merged into an integrated structure where the filter is positioned directly above or within each pixel unit. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate filter mounting mechanisms, moving parts, and complex alignment systems, significantly reducing device size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical filter switching is used for different wavelengths, then spectral detection is achieved, but detection speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous simultaneous detection of multiple spectral bands by having all pixel units operate in parallel. Unlike sequential filter switching where detection is interrupted by mechanical movements, this design maintains continuous detection across all wavelength bands without interruption, achieving maximum detection speed.
4Adaptability or versatility
If optical filter switching unit is used, then spectral detection is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a standardized pixel unit design that can be replicated across the pixel layer, with each unit serving multiple functions: light collection, spectral filtering, and photoelectric conversion. This universal modular design simplifies manufacturing compared to custom-built filter switching mechanisms, as the same basic structure is repeated with different filter materials.
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
Enables high-efficiency detection of hundreds of spectrums, reduces device size and cost, and expands application possibilities, including small spaces where traditional optical filter units are impractical.
Implementation Method 1
a front-end structure for performing photoelectric conversion and processing
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure refers to a multispectral image sensor and a manufacturing method thereof. The multispectral image sensor comprises a front-end structure used for photoelectric conversion and processing, and a pixel layer provided on the front-end structure. The pixel layer comprises N pixel units, and N≥4, the pixel units are arranged in a plurality of arrays, a photosensitive wavelength of each pixel unit in each array is different. Whereby, multispectrals can be detected simultaneously, and therefore the efficiency is improved, costs are reduced, and miniaturization is achieved.