Recent advances in curved image sensor arrays for bioinspired vision system

A conventional wide-angle camera consists of a planar image sensor array and multiple optic elements, which increases the camera’s volume, weight, and cost. In nature, most biological visual systems possess a curved retina, providing the capability of a wide field of view imaging with high sensitivity through a single lens. Inspired by the unique advantage of the biological eye, various curved image sensor arrays have been demonstrated, which enable a wide field of view, low aberration, and highly sensitive image acquisition with a simple lens design. Herein, various fabrication strategies for the curved image sensor arrays are summarized. In addition, the applications of the curved device in the artificial electronic eyes as well as the challenges and opportunities of the curved image sensor array are also discussed.