Pixel Separation Structure for Low-Noise Image Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of image sensors has led to increased noise, making it challenging to obtain clear images, especially in low luminance conditions.
Innovation Solution
The image sensor design includes a substrate with photoelectric conversion regions separated by partition layers and pixel separation layers, which reduce cross-talk between unit pixels, thereby minimizing noise and enhancing image clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If pixel size is reduced for miniaturization, then device size is reduced, but noise increases and image clarity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces partition layers and pixel separation layers that divide and separate adjacent photoelectric conversion regions within the substrate. These layers create physical and optical barriers between pixels, preventing cross-talk while maintaining small pixel sizes, thus reducing noise without increasing overall sensor size
Solution Approach 2:
The partition layers and pixel separation layers act as intermediary structures between adjacent photoelectric conversion regions. These intermediate layers block stray light and optical cross-talk from reaching neighboring pixels, thereby reducing noise while allowing the sensor to maintain miniaturized dimensions
2Quantity of substance
If pixel density is increased to maintain resolution in smaller sensors, then miniaturization is achieved, but optical cross-talk between pixels increases
Solution Approach 1:
The partition layers extend vertically through the substrate and horizontally between pixels, creating segmented compartments for each photoelectric conversion region. This segmentation allows higher pixel density while preventing optical cross-talk by physically dividing the optical paths of adjacent pixels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical dimensionality with partition layers that extend through the substrate thickness, in addition to horizontal separation. This multi-dimensional separation approach enables increased pixel density in the planar direction while maintaining optical isolation through the vertical dimension, preventing cross-talk even at high densities
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 effectively suppresses noise and allows for the capture of clear images by reducing optical cross-talk between pixels, even in noisy low-luminance conditions.
Implementation Method 1
photoelectric conversion regions located in the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor includes: on a substrate that includes a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, photoelectric conversion regions located in the substrate, the photoelectric conversion regions being separated from each other; partition layers spaced apart from the first surface and between the photoelectric conversion regions; and pixel separation layers on the partition layers that separate the photoelectric conversion regions from each other.