15m for European image sensor breakthrough

Eyeo, a spinout of imec, has recently secured €15 million in funding and has emerged from stealth mode with a groundbreaking advancement in image sensor technology. The company, based in the Netherlands, has developed a revolutionary method that eliminates the need for filters in image sensors to capture different light frequencies within a pixel array. Instead, Eyeo has pioneered a technique involving vertical waveguides that split the light as it travels down, resulting in smaller, more efficient, and higher-resolution image sensors.

According to Jeroen Hoet, CEO and co-founder of Eyeo, this innovation allows for enhanced performance in various applications such as augmented reality, virtual reality, smartphones, webcams, industrial equipment, high-end smartphones, and drones. Hoet envisions Eyeo becoming a significant player in the image sensor market, positioning Europe as a leader in image sensing technology, which has seen minimal advancements since the introduction of image filters 50 years ago.

The new technique developed by Eyeo is compatible with the CMOS process, featuring two waveguides that feed four pixels. The company, headquartered in Eindhoven with research and development operations in Leuven, Belgium, plans to collaborate with foundries to integrate this technology into existing sensor pixel arrays and commercialize the resulting sensor stack.

Hoet explained that the rectangular waveguides used in the process are of a size that allows for standard lithography technologies to be employed, eliminating the need for specialized equipment. By leveraging CMOS economics, Eyeo aims to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness while achieving a 3x reduction in area for similar performance, resulting in smaller cameras and lenses.

Eyeo has already initiated discussions with potential customers, including system integrators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and sensor manufacturers. The company plans to introduce an evaluation kit for selected customers within the next two years, with a broader product release targeted for years three or four. Looking ahead, Eyeo is considering developing its own pixel array to further enhance its image sensor stack and capitalize on future advancements in pixel size reduction.