Intensified charge coupled image sensor having an improved CCD support

In an intensified charge coupled image sensor of the type comprising:

• an image intensifier tube including an evacuated envelope having a longitudinally extending optical axis, a photoemissive cathode within said envelope for emitting electrons in a pattern corresponding to the intensity of radiation incident thereon,
• a header assembly including a header member, a silicon charge coupled device having a thickness of about 10 microns spaced from said cathode and disposed within said header member in a plane substantially orthogonal to said optical axis, said charge coupled device having a first surface and a second surface, said charge coupled device including an imaging area, an output register and a plurality of electrodes disposed on said second surface of said charge coupled device, and
• support means for supporting said charge coupled device within said header member, wherein the improvement comprises
• said charge coupled device having a conductive boundary around said first surface, said boundary comprising chromium and gold,
• said support means including a discrete frame member of silicon having a thickness substantially greater than the thickness of said charge coupled device, said frame member having a first major surface and a second major surface, said frame member being disposed between said cathode and said charge coupled device, said frame member having a conductive pattern on one of the major surfaces in register with said conductive boundary on said first surface of said charge coupled device, said frame member having an aperture therethrough to permit electrons from said cathode to impinge upon said imaging area of said charge coupled device, and
• a braze material disposed between said conductive boundary of said charge coupled device and said conductive pattern on said frame member to secure and support said charge coupled device against said frame member.