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SonyGranted patentCameras & imagingInterest 4/10

Sony patents camera sensor design with built-in diffractive lens layers

Sony describes an imaging element that combines a standard image sensor with a transparent cover body and a diffractive lens. The lens consists of multiple stacked layers with small protruding sections that help direct light onto the sensor.

Why it mattersThis design aims to improve image quality in compact devices by integrating specific optical components directly into the sensor assembly.

In the filing’s own words

Technology advantageous for acquiring a high-quality image with a small device configuration is provided. An imaging element includes: a pixel substrate including an image sensor; a cover body facing the image sensor, the cover body being transmissive; a diffractive lens having a plurality of protruding lens portions protruding from the cover body toward the image sensor, in which a space is provided between the plurality of protruding lens portions.

What exactly they claim (claim 1)

1. An imaging element, comprising: a pixel substrate including an image sensor; a cover body facing the image sensor, the cover body being transmissive; a diffractive lens having a plurality of protruding lens portions protruding from the cover body toward the image sensor, wherein a space is provided between the plurality of protruding lens portions; and a plurality of lens constituent layers stacked on each other, wherein each of the plurality of lens constituent layers includes the cover body and the diffractive lens.

Facts

Company
Sony (SONY SEMICONDUCTOR SOLUTIONS CORPORATION)
Official title
Imaging element with transmissive cover body and diffractive lens, imaging device with transmissive cover body and diffractive lens, and method for manufacturing imaging element with transmissive cover body and diffractive lens
Patent number
US12740171B2
Application number
18548647
Filed
Jan 19, 2022
Granted
Sep 15, 2026
Inventors
1
Claims
20

Classified under

H10F 39/8063 Electricity & electronicsH10F 39/024 Electricity & electronicsH10F 39/805 Electricity & electronics
Read the full filing (official PDF) ↗ Open in the Patent Tracker

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Summaries are simplified from the filing’s own abstract and first claim. A patent filing is not a product announcement.
Patent data and drawings: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Nebula is not affiliated with or endorsed by the USPTO.