Infrared visualized snakes-inspired artificial vision systems with CMOS sensors-integrated upconverters

Area of Science:

• Bio-inspired engineering
• Artificial vision systems
• Infrared imaging technology

Background:

• Biological vision systems are limited to visible light wavelengths (0.4–0.78 μm).
• Snakes utilize pit organs for infrared detection, enabling thermal imaging in darkness.
• Existing artificial vision lacks infrared detection capabilities, restricting applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop artificial vision systems capable of infrared visualization beyond the visible light spectrum.
• To overcome the limitations of current artificial vision systems by incorporating infrared detection.
• To achieve ultra-high-resolution imaging in short-wave infrared (SWIR) and mid-wave infrared (MWIR) bands.

Main Methods:

• Integration of upconverters with CMOS sensors for infrared detection.
• Design of colloidal quantum dot barrier heterojunction architecture for infrared detecting units.
• Incorporation of co-hosted emitting units to enhance upconversion efficiency.

Main Results:

• Achieved first-time 3840 × 2160 ultra-high-resolution SWIR and MWIR visualization imaging.
• Demonstrated high luminance and upconversion efficiency: 6388.09 cd/m² and 6.41% for SWIR, 1311.64 cd/m² and 4.06% for MWIR at room temperature.
• Successfully broke through visible light limitations in artificial vision systems.

Conclusions:

• The developed artificial vision systems represent a significant advancement in bioartificial vision.
• These systems offer broad applications in night vision, agricultural science, and industrial inspection.
• The technology enables enhanced sensing capabilities by extending detection into the infrared spectrum.