Pixel Array Nanostructures for Higher-Resolution Light Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing light detecting devices face challenges in achieving improved detection performance.

Innovation Solution

A photodetector design comprising first, second, and third pixels, each with specific filters and photoelectric conversion sections, along with a light-dispersing section that redirects light to enhance detection performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional pixel array design is used, then the device structure is simple, but the detection performance and resolution are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection performanceVSAvoidpixel arrangement complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pixel array is segmented into different functional regions: first pixels for green light detection, second pixels for other wavelengths, and third pixels forming a light-dispersing section. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall detection performance while maintaining a systematic structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the pixel array are assigned different qualities and functions. The first pixels have high sensitivity to green light, the third pixels form a light-dispersing section with specific structural characteristics, and the second pixels handle other wavelength ranges. This local differentiation optimizes detection performance for specific wavelengths without compromising the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Manufacturing precision

If a light-dispersing section with nanostructures is added, then the resolution and sensitivity are improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveresolutionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical light-dispersing structures with a carefully designed pixel arrangement pattern. The third pixels form a light-dispersing section through their spatial configuration rather than requiring additional mechanical optical elements, thereby improving resolution while simplifying manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the dimensional parameters of the pixel structures, making them equal to or less than the wavelength of incident light. This parameter optimization enables the pixels themselves to function as light-dispersing elements, achieving high resolution without requiring separate nanostructure fabrication processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If pixels are arranged in a specific pattern to disperse light, then the detection sensitivity is enhanced, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidpixel arrangement structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The third pixels serve multiple functions: they act as both light-detecting elements and light-dispersing structures. By making the pixels themselves fulfill dual roles, the patent enhances detection sensitivity through light dispersion without requiring separate dedicated dispersing components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the light-detecting function and light-dispersing function into a single integrated pixel structure. The third pixels simultaneously perform photoelectric conversion and light dispersion through their specific arrangement, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining enhanced detection sensitivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 design enhances the resolution and sensitivity of the photodetector, particularly for green light, leading to improved image quality and detection performance.

Implementation Method 1

a light-dispersing section (30) including a structure (31) having a dimension equal to or less than a wavelength of incident light

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

a photoelectric conversion section (12) that photoelectrically converts the light of the third wavelength transmitted through the light-dispersing section (30)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

a first filter (40G) that transmits light of a first wavelength

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical filtering: Filter (optical)

Data Source

PatentUS20250072146A1Light detecting device

Publication Date: 2025.02.27 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP

AI summary

A light detecting device comprises a plurality of pixels that include first pixels that sense light in a first wavelength range, and a second pixel that senses light in a second wavelength range different than the first wavelength range. The second pixel is surrounded by six pixels of the first pixels. The light detecting device comprises first nanostructures that redirect light incident to the first pixels.