Quantum Solutions, a company at the forefront of quantum dot technology, is thrilled to introduce the Q.Eye® SWIR (short-wave infrared) image sensors with an extensive spectral range of 400 – 1700 nm. This innovative sensor is poised to unlock new imaging capabilities for machine vision and robotics applications.
The current SWIR sensor market is predominantly dominated by compound semiconductor InGaAs image sensor technology with a spectral range of 900 – 1700 nm. Although this technology offers high performance, its manufacturing process poses significant challenges. Compound semiconductor technology relies on the epitaxial growth of InGaAs layers on InP wafers under high-temperature and vacuum conditions, followed by hybridization processes to connect InGaAs layers with silicon ROICs (readout integrated circuits), culminating in the creation of a complete FPA (focal plane array) for image recording and processing. This complexity results in limited production capacity and prohibitive product prices, typically starting at $5,000 per SWIR sensor chip.
Quantum Solutions is revolutionizing the manufacturing of SWIR image sensors using novel solution-processed compound semiconductor technology. Instead of epitaxial growth, Quantum Solutions synthesizes semiconductor nanoparticles called colloidal quantum dots. These quantum dots can be seamlessly integrated with silicon ROICs by solution processing, enabling large-volume production on wafer-level platforms, unmatched by traditional methods. This breakthrough technology not only excels in performance but also increases yield and lowers manufacturing costs significantly. Additionally, the sensor exhibits a much broader spectral range than standard SWIR sensors, spanning from the visible range at 400 nm to 1700 nm in the SWIR range.
Marat Lutfullin, CEO of Quantum Solutions, commented, "Leveraging our extensive expertise in quantum dot materials development and production, Quantum Solutions is democratizing access to SWIR technology through our cutting-edge Q.Eye® SWIR imaging solutions."
The released Q.Eye® SWIR image sensor, which boasts a spectral range of 400 – 1700 nm and VGA resolution, features the smallest pixel pitch (5 μm) and an ultra-compact sensor design (4.1 mm diagonal) thanks to its solution processing and monolithic integration on CMOS (complimentary metal-oxide semiconductor) wafers.
The Q.Eye® SWIR image sensors make this new technology more accessible by offering a more affordable option compared to traditional SWIR sensors. SWIR technology expands the realm of imaging possibilities beyond conventional silicon and human vision, enabling capabilities such as materials identification, temperature imaging, laser beam profiling, low light long-range imaging, seeing through obstructions, and more.
To support the product launch, Quantum Solutions offers an evaluation camera platform equipped with the Q.Eye® SWIR image sensor. The test electronics kit features the market's smallest quantum dot camera, weighing just above 30 grams and measuring less than 3.5 cm in its longest dimension, thanks to the uncooled quantum dot sensor chip and smart camera design. This compact size offers advantages such as lightweight optics, extreme power efficiency, and USB-driven operation. The camera is designed to facilitate first-hand testing of Quantum Solutions’ SWIR image sensors, enabling operators, engineers, and researchers to explore their transformative capabilities across various industries, including machine vision, drones, robotics, automotive, security, and surveillance.
Alexander Bessonov, Director of Engineering at Quantum Solutions added that the industry has reached a pivotal moment realizing the potential of quantum dot semiconductors in infrared imaging and by harnessing the remarkable tunability and versatility of colloidal quantum dots, the company is ready to drive innovation and deliver value to its customers.
