Image Sensor Microlens Arrays with Rotated Shield Region
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image sensors face noise issues due to scattered light, which causes the flare phenomenon, affecting image quality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a microlens array configuration where a second microlens array is rotated relative to a first microlens array, increasing the pitch between microlenses to minimize backscattered light and reduce flare noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If microlenses are arranged closely together to maximize pixel coverage, then light collection efficiency is improved, but scattered light causes flare noise that deteriorates image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by rotating the second microlens array by 45 degrees relative to the first microlens array. This asymmetric arrangement breaks the symmetry of light scattering paths, causing backscattered light to be directed away from pixel regions rather than returning to cause flare noise, while still maintaining effective light collection
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the pitch between microlenses is increased to reduce scattered light impact, then flare noise is reduced, but light collection efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotational dimension to the microlens array arrangement. Instead of simply increasing pitch in one direction, the second array is rotated by 45 degrees, creating a multi-dimensional configuration that simultaneously achieves scattered light suppression and maintains light collection efficiency through optimized spatial distribution
3Ease of manufacture
If a regular grid arrangement of microlenses is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but scattered light follows predictable paths causing flare
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the microlens array into two separate arrays with different orientations. The first microlens array and second microlens array are manufactured independently with regular grid patterns, then combined in a layered structure. This segmentation allows each array to be manufactured using standard processes while the combined asymmetric configuration suppresses flare noise
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 configuration significantly reduces flare noise by increasing the intervals between microlenses, leading to improved image quality by minimizing the impact of backscattered light.
Implementation Method 1
a first microlens array including microlenses that are arranged in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction corresponding to respective pixels
Implementation Method 2
minimize backscattered light and reduce flare noise
Data Source
AI summary
An image sensor is disclosed. The image sensor includes a pixel region and a shield region. The pixel region includes a first microlens array that includes microlenses arranged in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The shield region surrounds the pixel region and includes a second microlens array formed in a shape that is obtained when the first microlens array is rotated by a predetermined angle with respect to the first direction.