Organic Image Sensor Electrode Layout for Adjustable Pixel Readout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image sensors with organic photoelectric conversion films are limited in their ability to adjust the size of the light receiving area at each pixel, which affects their performance in capturing images.
Innovation Solution
The image sensor design includes multiple electrodes on either side of the photoelectric conversion film, allowing for adjustable electric charge readout from different areas, and is integrated into an image-capturing device with a focus detection unit to optimize focus detection across the image plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed light receiving area is used in each pixel, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to adjust light reception and optimize focus detection is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel is divided into multiple light receiving areas by introducing multiple electrodes (first, second, third, and fourth electrodes) that partition the photoelectric conversion film into distinct regions. This segmentation enables independent control and readout of electric charges from different areas, providing adaptability in light reception adjustment while maintaining a structured electrode arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrodes are disposed on both surfaces of the photoelectric conversion film, utilizing the third dimension (depth/thickness) of the structure. This multi-surface electrode configuration allows for complex light receiving area definitions without significantly increasing planar footprint, enabling adjustable light reception capability while controlling device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrodes are introduced to enable adjustable light reception, then the adaptability improves, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into sequential electrode formation steps, where each electrode (first, second, third, fourth) is formed in a controlled sequence. This allows for systematic fabrication of multiple electrodes using standard semiconductor manufacturing techniques, making the process manageable despite the increased number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple electrodes serve multiple functions: they define light receiving areas, enable charge readout from different regions, and provide configurability for focus detection. This multi-functionality justifies the additional manufacturing complexity by delivering enhanced adaptability and performance from a single structural solution.
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 design enhances the ability to detect focus accurately across the image plane by allowing for adjustable light reception and improved signal processing, addressing the limitations of fixed light receiving areas in existing image sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion film that performs photoelectric conversion on light having entered therein
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes: a photoelectric conversion film that performs photoelectric conversion on light having entered therein; at least two electrodes, including a first electrode and a second electrode, disposed at a surface of the photoelectric conversion film; and at least two electrodes, including a third electrode and a fourth electrode, disposed at another surface of the photoelectric conversion film.