Abstract: Stacked layers of non-continuous opaque layer structures are disclosed herein that may be configured to block radiation such as visible light or other forms of light, while at the same time allowing penetration of ambient gases. In one example, such non-continuous opaque layer structures may be configured as stacked non-continuous metal layer structures that together fully block penetration of radiation while at the same provide sufficient open spaces between and/or within the metal layer segments of a given integrated circuit layer to meet maximum metal spacing rules. In another example, such non-continuous opaque layer structures may be configured as capacitive structures.

Abstract: A humidity sensor is provided having humidity levels approaching 100% relative humidity can be measured, as well as condensation measurements which appear as RH values “above 100%”. The humidity sensor is a capacitance based sensor. The capacitor(s) of the sensor is dimensioned so that substantial electric fields of the capacitor extend to the sensor/ambient air interface so that the conditions at the ambient side of the interface provide data for the sensor. In particular, the capacitance effects of moisture formation on the ambient side of the sensor/ambient air interface are utilized as part of the measurements so that relative humidity levels below and above 100% can be detected. The capacitor(s) of the sensor is dimensioned so that substantial electric fields of the capacitor extend to the air interface so that the conditions at ambient side of the interface provide data for the sensor.

Abstract: A gas and/or humidity sensor system may include two differing capacitive sensor unit cell structures. A first unit cell has a capacitance measurement that is dependent upon capacitance effects that substantially do not extend to the upper reaches of the sensor's gas/humidity sensitive layer and a second unit cell has a capacitance measurement that is dependent upon electric field effects that extend substantially beyond the distance of the electric fields of the first unit cell. The capacitance associated with the electric fields in the upper regions of the gas/humidity sensitive layer may then be obtained to a first order by subtracting the capacitance of the first unit cell from the capacitance of the second unit cell. By subtracting the capacitance, a capacitance associated with the capacitance of the electric fields of the layer (or portion of layer) of interest may be approximated.

Abstract: Stacked layers of non-continuous opaque layer structures are disclosed herein that may be configured to block radiation such as visible light or other forms of light, while at the same time allowing penetration of ambient gases. In one example, such non-continuous opaque layer structures may be configured as stacked non-continuous metal layer structures that together fully block penetration of radiation while at the same provide sufficient open spaces between and/or within the metal layer segments of a given integrated circuit layer to meet maximum metal spacing rules. In another example, such non-continuous opaque layer structures may be configured as capacitive structures.