Solar Cell Integrated CIS Structure Without Support Carrier
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The fabrication of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors (CIS) is complicated by the use of a support carrier that requires grinding and polishing, increasing production costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a solar cell with the CIS sensor array, where the solar cell acts as a support substrate and power supply, storing DC voltage in a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor and converting it to AC signals for the CIS sensor array, reducing the need for a separate power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support carrier is used for CMOS image sensor fabrication, then the sensor array can be properly supported during processing, but additional grinding and polishing steps are required to reduce the carrier's presence, increasing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support carrier function with the final device structure by integrating a solar cell array that serves both as structural support and as a functional power-generating component. This eliminates the need for separate support carriers that require removal, thereby reducing fabrication process complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The solar cell array performs multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the CMOS sensor array, generates electrical power through photovoltaic conversion, and eliminates the need for separate power supply components. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device complexity and fabrication steps required
2Use of energy by moving object
If a separate power source is integrated with the CMOS image sensor, then the sensor array has sufficient power supply, but additional components and integration steps increase manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power generation function directly into the support structure by using a solar cell array that is integrated with the CMOS sensor array. This merging eliminates the need for separate power source components and their associated integration steps, reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring adequate power supply
Solution Approach 2:
The solar cell array provides self-powered operation by converting incident light directly into electrical energy that supplies the CMOS sensor array. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external power sources or complex power management components, thereby reducing device complexity
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 integration simplifies the fabrication process, reduces production costs, and provides a self-sufficient power supply for the CIS sensor array, enhancing efficiency and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a first array of solar cells integrated with the CIS sensor array, wherein the solar cells are configured to convert light to electricity
Implementation Method 2
storing DC voltage in a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an integrated circuit (IC) structure with a solar cell and an image sensor array. An integrated structure according to the present disclosure includes a first substrate including a plurality of photodiodes, an interconnect structure disposed on the first substrate, a first bonding layer disposed on the interconnect structure, a second bonding layer disposed on the first bonding layer, a second substrate disposed on the second bonding layer, and a transparent conductive oxide layer disposed on the second substrate.