The infrared retina: Moving towards the fourth generation infrared detectors with quantum dots and superlattices

This paper discusses the fourth generation of infrared detectors. Using the concept of a bio-inspired infrared retina, the author presents a case for an enhanced functionality in the pixel. The key idea is to engineer the pixel such that it not only has the ability to sense multimodal data such as color, polarization, dynamic range and phase but also the intelligence to transmit a reduced data set to the central processing unit. To highlight this approach , two material systems which are emerging as promising infrared detector technologies are used. These are (i) InAs/lnGaAs self assembled quantum dots in well (DWELL) hetereostructure and (ii) lnAs/(ln,Ga)Sb strain layer superlattices (SLS) detectors. Various approaches for realizing the infrared retina are discussed.