Radiant energy – Invisible radiant energy responsive electric signalling – Semiconductor system
Patent
1995-01-17
1996-09-10
Fields, Carolyn E.
Radiant energy
Invisible radiant energy responsive electric signalling
Semiconductor system
2503381, 2503384, 250332, G01J 520
Patent
active
055548490
ABSTRACT:
A micro-bolometric infrared (IR) staring array is described. The active element in each pixel within a two-dimensional array is a device having a selectively forward-biased p-n junction, e.g. a selectively biased diode. Each diode in the array serves as both an IR energy detecting element and a switching element. Each diode in a given row of the IR pixel array to be sensed, or read, is driven at a constant voltage, rendering its IR response highly controllable in the forward biased operating curve of the diodes in the addressed row. Diodes not being driven are, due to their reverse bias, in their off state producing minute leakage current and thus make no significant contribution to the sensed current representing a given pixel's IR exposure. The row-addressed driven or active diodes are sensed column by column by sample and hold techniques to produce a two-dimensional IR pixel image of a target. This simplifies the geometries as well as the cell structures while increasing the fill ratio to greater than approximately fifty percent. Moreover, manufacturing yields are greatly improved because of the topologic and process simplicities and compatibility with standard integrated circuit processes.
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Fields Carolyn E.
Flir Systems Inc.
Glick Edward J.
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