Abstract: A semiconductor color image sensor comprises: an array of semiconductor photo-sensors (CMOS or CCD) and a color filter array comprising an array of red, green and blue filter elements in which each filter element is associated with a respective one of the photo-sensors. The sensor further comprises a phosphor (photo-luminescent) material associated with each of the blue filter elements and configured to absorb blue light and re-emit light of a longer wavelength range which is then incident on the photo-sensor associated with the blue filter element. Preferably the phosphor material is selected such that light of the longer wavelength range substantially matches the spectral response of the photo-sensor. The image sensor can further comprise an array of micro-lenses for focusing light onto the photo-sensors of the image sensor, wherein each micro-lens is associated with a respective one of the photo-sensors.

Abstract: A semiconductor color image sensor comprises: an array of semiconductor photo-sensors (CMOS or CCD) and a color filter array comprising an array of red, green and blue filter elements in which each filter element is associated with a respective one of the photo-sensors. The sensor further comprises a phosphor (photo-luminescent) material associated with each of the blue filter elements and configured to absorb blue light and re-emit light of a longer wavelength range which is then incident on the photo-sensor associated with the blue filter element. Preferably the phosphor material is selected such that light of the longer wavelength range substantially matches the spectral response of the photo-sensor. The image sensor can further comprise an array of micro-lenses for focusing light onto the photo-sensors of the image sensor, wherein each micro-lens is associated with a respective one of the photo-sensors.

Abstract: The present embodiments are directed to photovoltaic devices that convert sunlight into electrical energy. More specifically, the present embodiments include a phosphor-containing, wavelength-converting material for shifting higher energy light to a lower energy form, the latter being more suitable for the typical solar cell to convert to electricity. The absorption of the phosphor may range from about 280 to 460 nm. Advantageously, the phosphor component of the wavelength converter may be in the form of nano-particles embedded in a transparent matrix for reducing scattering losses.