TCAD Template for CMOS Image Sensor Prototyping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional TCAD software tools require significant time and effort for image sensor designers to generate separate layout files for each CMOS image sensor pixel configuration, leading to inefficiencies in development and increased computer processing time, especially when comparing similar configurations or making minor design changes.
Innovation Solution
An improved TCAD software tool that allows designers to modify a core single-pixel 3D model using standardized design features and modular templates, enabling the rapid generation of multiple simulation models from a single core model, thereby reducing the need for repeated structural generation and mesh creation processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate layout files are generated for each CMOS image sensor pixel configuration, then each configuration can be fully simulated and tested, but development time and computer processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image sensor design into a reusable core pixel structure and variable configuration parameters. By dividing the layout into a template portion (core structure) and parameter portions (configurable elements), designers can simulate multiple configurations by modifying parameters rather than creating separate layout files, thus reducing development time while maintaining simulation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables configuration variations through parameter changes in a single layout file. Instead of generating new layout files for each configuration, the system allows designers to modify parameters (such as pixel dimensions, filter types, lens characteristics) within the same layout file framework, significantly reducing both development time and computer processing time while preserving full simulation capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate layout files are generated for each pixel configuration, then complete design specifications can be maintained, but the complexity of design management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal layout file template that can serve multiple pixel configurations through parameterization. A single layout file structure can accommodate various configurations by changing parameters, eliminating the need to manage multiple separate layout files while maintaining precise design specifications for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages design complexity by controlling variations through parameters rather than separate files. Each configuration is defined by a set of parameters within the unified layout file framework, making design management simpler while preserving manufacturing precision through structured parameter control.
3Reliability
If repeated structural generation and mesh creation processes are performed for each configuration, then each simulation model is complete and accurate, but computer processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs structural generation and mesh creation once for the core pixel structure in advance. By pre-generating the common structural elements and meshes that are shared across all configurations, the system eliminates repeated computational work while ensuring model completeness for each configuration through parameter-based customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the common structural generation and mesh creation processes across multiple configurations. By combining these repetitive operations into a single execution for the core structure, the system reduces computer processing time and energy consumption while maintaining complete and accurate simulation models through parameter-driven configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved TCAD software tool includes a structure generator for generating a core single-pixel three-dimensional (3D) model including only front-end details of a single CIS pixel, a prototyping tool for generating modified CIS prototypes by automatically combining the core single-pixel 3D model with features and configurations included in selected modular templates, and a separate mesh generator for generating optical simulation models by generating optical meshes based on each CIS prototype's selected configuration. The modular templates include pre-configured optically-relevant (e.g., micro-lens and anti-reflection) structures, alternative (e.g., front-side illuminated or back-side illuminated, two-dimensional or 3D) pixel configurations, alternative array configurations, and alternative color filter patterns. Optical simulation results generated for the various prototypes displayed for analysis using a movie process and using curves having colors that correspond to associated simulated visible light frequencies.