Patent ID: 7265402
Filing Date: 2007-09-04
Classification: G02B,H01L

Abstract:
1. A solid-state image sensor including pixel regions arranged regularly on its face, comprising: (a) a light-receiving element layer, which is formed by using a semiconductor substrate, including semiconductor light-receiving elements, which are arranged corresponding to the pixel regions, for generating electric signals according to light irradiated; and light-transmissive regions for enabling light to be irradiated to the semiconductor light-receiving elements; (b) a light-introducing layer for introducing light to the semiconductor light-receiving elements of the light-receiving element layer by way of the light-transmissive regions; and (c) an output layer or interposer, which is formed by using a semiconductor substrate, having output terminals for outputting the electric signals generated by the semiconductor light-receiving elements of the light-receiving element layer; wherein the light-introducing layer includes (b-1) microlenses arranged on the light-transmissive regions of the light-receiving element layer corresponding to the pixel regions; (b-2) a supporting wall, which is formed on or over the light-transmissive regions, for forming a cavity accommodating the microlenses; and (b-3) a light-transmissive cover fixed to the supporting wall to form the cavity; wherein the sensor is configured in such a way that external light introduced into the cavity by way of the cover is irradiated to the semiconductor light-receiving elements of the light-receiving element layer by way of the microlenses; wherein the light-receiving element layer, the light-introducing layer, and the output layer or interposer constitute a three-dimensional stacked structure; wherein at least one of the light-receiving element layer and the output layer or interposer comprises holes for electrical connection, the holes penetrating through the semiconductor substrate; wherein the supporting wall comprises a multiple-layer structure comprising a first part located at a position adjacent to the light-receiving element layer and a second part located adjacent to the first part; wherein the first part comprises a material forming a protector or etch stop for the microlenses to protect the microlenses when forming the cavity, and wherein the first part is selectively removable without deleterious affect to the microlenses during or after formation of the cavity; and wherein the second part is disposed to adhere the cover to the first part.