Patent · US Expired

Micro-lens configuration for small lens focusing in digital imaging devices

US7557337B2 · kind B2 · utility

12Cited by
15References
25Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateOct 25, 2005
Grant dateJul 7, 2009
Priority date
Expiry dateOct 25, 2025

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB33Y80/00
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An improved image sensor wherein a first micro-lens array comprised of one or more micro-lenses is positioned over a cavity such that incoming light is focused on the photo sensors of the image sensor. The first micro-lens array may collimate and focus incoming light onto the photo sensors of the image sensor, or may collimate incoming light and direct it to a second micro-lens array which then focuses the light onto the photo sensors. A method of fabricating the improved image sensor is also provided wherein the cavity and first micro-lens array are formed by use of a sacrificial material.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.