Abstract: A pixel sensor array may include a plurality of pixel sensors configured to generate color information associated with incident light, and a time of flight (ToF) sensor circuit configured to generate distance information associated with the incident light. The color information and the distance information may be used to generate a three-dimensional (3D) ToF color image. The ToF sensor circuit may be included under a DTI structure surrounding the plurality of pixel sensors in a top view of the pixel sensor array.

Abstract: A semiconductor device according to the present disclosure includes a semiconductor layer, a plurality of metal isolation features disposed in the semiconductor layer, wherein certain of the metal isolation features extend through the substrate to provide for full isolation between adjacent photodetectors and certain of the metal isolation features extend partially through the semiconductor layer to provide partially isolation between adjacent photodetectors.

Abstract: An array of nanoscale structures over photodiodes of a pixel array improves quantum efficiency (QE) for shorter wavelengths of light, such as green light and blue light. The nanoscale structures may be used without high absorption (HA) structures (e.g., when the pixel array is configured only for visible light) or may at least partially surround HA structures (e.g., when the pixel array is configured both for visible light and near infrared light). Additionally, the array of nanoscale structures may be formed using photolithography such that the nanoscale structures are approximately spaced at regular intervals. Therefore, QE for the pixel array is improved more than if the array of nanoscale structures were to be formed using a random (or quasi-random) process.

Abstract: An image sensor structure includes a semiconductor substrate, a plurality of image sensing elements, a reflective element, and a high-k dielectric structure. The image sensing elements are in the semiconductor substrate. The reflective element is in the semiconductor substrate and between the image sensing elements. The high-k dielectric structure is between the reflective element and the image sensing elements.

Abstract: A semiconductor structure is disclosed. The semiconductor structure includes a number of pixels and neighboring pixels are isolated by deep trench isolation structures. In an embodiment, a method of forming the semiconductor structure includes epitaxially growing a p-type semiconductor layer on a substrate, epitaxially growing an n-type semiconductor layer over the p-type semiconductor layer, after the epitaxially growing of the n-type semiconductor layer, forming a p-type well in the n-type semiconductor layer, forming an n-type doped region in the n-type semiconductor layer and surrounded by the p-type well, forming a first trench extending through the n-type semiconductor layer and the p-type semiconductor layer and surrounding the p-type well, and forming a first isolation structure in the first trench.