Omnivision Applies for SiGe Image Sensor Patent

Omnivision patent application US20170345851 "Graded-Semiconductor Image Sensor" by Dajiang Yang, Gang Chen, Duli Mao, and Dyson Tai propose SiGe graded epi doping to enhace IR response:

"Detection of infrared (IR) light is useful in automotive and night vision applications. However, conventional image sensor devices may poorly absorb infrared light due to the band structure of semiconductor materials used in modern microelectronic devices. Even if conventional image sensors can absorb IR light, the semiconductor may need to be sufficiently thick. Additional semiconductor thickness may complicate other fabrication steps and/or reduce performance."