18452823. PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT, SOLID-STATE IMAGING DEVICE, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE simplified abstract (Sony Group Corporation)

PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT, SOLID-STATE IMAGING DEVICE, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE

Organization Name

Sony Group Corporation

Inventor(s)

SHINTAROU Hirata of KANAGAWA (JP)

MASAHIRO Joei of KANAGAWA (JP)

KENICHI Murata of KANAGAWA (JP)

MASASHI Bando of TOKYO (JP)

YOSUKE Saito of TOKYO (JP)

RYOSUKE Suzuki of KANAGAWA (JP)

PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT, SOLID-STATE IMAGING DEVICE, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18452823 titled 'PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT, SOLID-STATE IMAGING DEVICE, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE

Simplified Explanation

The photoelectric conversion element described in the patent application includes a unique structure with a work function control layer containing a larger amount of oxygen than the stoichiometric composition, as well as a third electrode provided facing the photoelectric conversion layer via an insulating layer.

• Structure of the photoelectric conversion element:

   - First electrode
   - Work function control layer with higher oxygen content
   - Photoelectric conversion layer
   - Oxide semiconductor layer
   - Second electrode
   - Third electrode facing the photoelectric conversion layer via an insulating layer

• The work function control layer plays a crucial role in improving image quality by adjusting the energy levels within the element.
• The third electrode provides additional functionality and flexibility in the operation of the photoelectric conversion element.

Potential Applications

The technology can be applied in:

• Image sensors
• Solar cells
• Photodetectors

Problems Solved

• Improved image quality
• Enhanced performance of photoelectric conversion elements

Benefits

• Higher efficiency in converting light to electrical signals
• Increased sensitivity and resolution in imaging applications

Potential Commercial Applications

• Consumer electronics
• Medical imaging devices
• Security cameras

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be the use of different materials in the construction of photoelectric conversion elements, but the specific structure and composition described in this patent application appear to be novel and innovative.

Unanswered Questions

How does the higher oxygen content in the work function control layer affect the overall performance of the photoelectric conversion element?

The patent application mentions that the work function control layer contains a larger amount of oxygen than the stoichiometric composition, but it does not delve into the specific mechanisms behind this choice.

What are the potential challenges or limitations of implementing a third electrode in the photoelectric conversion element?

While the addition of a third electrode provides added functionality, there may be practical challenges in terms of manufacturing complexity or compatibility with existing technologies.

Original Abstract Submitted

To provide a photoelectric conversion element that can improve image quality. Provided is a photoelectric conversion element including at least a first electrode, a work function control layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, an oxide semiconductor layer, and a second electrode in this order, and further including a third electrode, in which the third electrode is provided apart from the second electrode and is provided facing the photoelectric conversion layer via an insulating layer, and the work function control layer contains a larger amount of oxygen than an amount of oxygen satisfying a stoichiometric composition.