Distance measuring device

Abstract

A distance measuring device is disclosed, which includes: a light source that emits light; a first optical element that reduces the intensity of the light emitted from the light source, the light emitted from the light source passing through the first optical element; a light receiving element that receives the light emitted from the light source toward a predetermined space and reflected from an object; a substrate that supports the light source and the light receiving element; a second optical element that is arranged at a position higher than the position of the light receiving element and is used to collect the light reflected from the object and is passed through by the light reflected from the object; a frame that is arranged to be connected to the substrate and spaced a predetermined distance between the first optical element and the second optical element and the light source and the light receiving element; a partition that is arranged between the light source and the light receiving element and cooperates with the frame to form a first cavity on the light source side and a second cavity on the light receiving element side; and a processor that monitors and controls the output of the light source, the processor being arranged on a surface of the substrate opposite to the surface on which the light source is arranged and electrically connected to the light source via the substrate.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0025674, filed on Mar. 6, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a distance measuring device. Background Art

[0004] Laser is derived from the acronym of "light amplification by stimulated demission of radiation" and can emit light with high coherence. In addition, laser can emit monochromatic light with directionality, which allows laser to be used in various fields of optical sensor technology.

[0005] For example, a laser can be used as a light source for a distance measuring device and a light source for a 3D depth camera. A distance measuring device of the time of flight (ToF) type calculates the flight time between a light source and an object based on the phase difference between the pulsed light output from the light source and the pulsed light returned to the light source, thereby measuring the distance based on the phase difference and frequency information. A distance measuring device of a structured light or hybrid stereo type can use a laser as a light source and form a regular or irregular pattern through a diffuser to extract distance information.

[0006] Due to their high output power and directivity, lasers are used as light sources for ranging devices and 3D depth cameras.

[0007] The high output power of the laser increases the flight distance of the light and also keeps the output of the returning light at a constant level. However, lasers are considered to be potentially dangerous. In the case where light with high output power directly shines into the human eye, it can cause damage to the eye, or in extreme cases the eye may become blind. Therefore, in the case of utilizing a laser as a light source, safety should be considered.

[0008] In some countries, lasers are often labeled with safety ratings, and the intensity of the beam output from the device is limited depending on the application of each rating.

[0009] A method for controlling the intensity of light emitted from a laser uses a diffuser arranged on an output path of the light to reduce the irradiation intensity of the light. Since the diffuser diffuses focused light in a predetermined field of view by utilizing refraction and diffraction as characteristics of light when necessary, the irradiation intensity of light passing through the diffuser is reduced per unit area.

[0010] In the case where a diffuser is detached from the apparatus for controlling the intensity of light using the diffuser, a problem arises because high-power light is output intactly.

[0011] In addition, in the case of a light source for outputting laser light, its output is generally controlled by a laser diode driver. However, there are problems in that data loss, impedance increase, and power consumption increase due to the physical distance between the laser diode driver and the light source, and this makes accurate data transmission between the light source and the laser diode driver difficult.

[0012] Therefore, the following ranging device is needed: in which the physical distance between the laser diode driver and the light source is minimized to reduce data loss between the light source and the laser diode driver and to achieve accurate data transmission between the light source and the laser diode driver; and, since the physical distance is minimized, even if the light source or module is abnormal or damaged, the problem can be quickly resolved to protect the eyes. Summary of the invention

[0013] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a ranging device that can provide an eye safety function.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a distance measuring device capable of minimizing the physical distance between a light source for outputting light and a processor for controlling the light source to achieve accurate data transmission between the light source and the processor.

[0015] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a distance measuring device, which includes: a light source configured to emit light; a first optical element configured to reduce the intensity of the light emitted from the light source, the light emitted from the light source passing through the first optical element; a light receiving element configured to receive the light emitted from the light source toward a predetermined space and reflected from an object; a substrate configured to support the light source and the light receiving element; a second optical element arranged at a position higher than that of the light receiving element for collecting the light reflected from the object, the light reflected from the object passing through the second optical element; a frame arranged to be connected to the substrate and to separate the first optical element and the second optical element from the light source and the light receiving element by a predetermined distance; a partition arranged between the light source and the light receiving element so as to cooperate with the frame to form a first cavity on the light source side and a second cavity on the light receiving element side; and a processor configured to monitor and control the output of the light source, the processor being arranged on a surface of the substrate opposite to the surface on which the light source is arranged and electrically connected to the light source via the substrate.

[0016] Preferably, if the output value of the light source deviates from a reference level, the processor operates an eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source.

[0017] Preferably, the distance measuring device further comprises a photosensitive element, which is arranged on the substrate and is used to measure the illumination intensity of the light reflected back by the first optical element.

[0018] Preferably, the processor operates an eye-safe mode to limit the output of the light source if the light measured by the photosensor is outside a predetermined reference level.

[0019] Preferably, the substrate includes a first substrate and a second substrate, the light source and the processor are arranged on the first substrate, and the light receiving element is arranged on the second substrate.

[0020] Preferably, the frame, the partition and the substrate comprise ceramic.

[0021] Preferably, the ceramic is a low temperature co-fired ceramic.

[0022] Preferably, the processor is electrically connected to the light source via a through-hole filler formed in the substrate.

[0023] Preferably, the inner surface of the frame and the outer surface of the partition are provided with metal grounding portions.

[0024] Preferably, the second optical element comprises an infrared filter.

[0025] Preferably, the light source comprises a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), and the first optical element comprises a diffuser for diffusing light.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a distance measuring device is provided, comprising: a light source configured to emit light; a first optical element configured to reduce the intensity of the light emitted from the light source, the light emitted from the light source passing through the first optical element; a light receiving element configured to receive light emitted from the light source toward a predetermined space and reflected from an object; a second optical element arranged at a position higher than that of the light receiving element for collecting the light reflected from the object, the light reflected from the object passing through the second optical element; a structural member configured to separate the first optical element from the light source by a predetermined distance and separate the second optical element from the light receiving element by a predetermined distance, support the first optical element, the second optical element, the light source and the light receiving element, and form a first cavity on the light source side and a second cavity on the light receiving element side, so that the light source and the light receiving element are separated from each other by a predetermined distance; and a processor configured to monitor and control the output of the light source, the processor being arranged on a surface of the structural member opposite to a surface on which the light source is arranged, and being electrically connected to the light source via the structural member.

[0027] Preferably, if the output value of the light source deviates from a reference level, the processor operates an eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source.

[0028] Preferably, the distance measuring device further comprises a photosensitive element, which is arranged on the structural member and is used to measure the illumination intensity of the light reflected from the first optical element.

[0029] Preferably, the processor operates an eye-safe mode to limit the output of the light source if the light measured by the photosensor deviates from a predetermined level.

[0030] Preferably, the structural member comprises ceramic.

[0031] Preferably, the ceramic is a low temperature co-fired ceramic.

[0032] Preferably, the processor is electrically connected to the light source via a via filler formed in the structural member.

[0033] Preferably, a metal grounding portion is provided on the inner surface of the structural member.

[0034] With the configuration of the distance measuring device described above, even if the distance measuring device does not operate in a normal mode or is damaged, the user's eyes can be protected.

[0035] In addition, data loss between the light source and the processor can be reduced, which enables accurate data transmission and reduces power consumption. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a case where the distance measuring device according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure is abnormal.

[0040] Figure 5 is a view showing a via-fill formed on a substrate of a distance measuring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A partial enlarged view of part A in FIG.

[0042] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a process of changing an operation mode of a ranging module of the present disclosure according to an output value.

[0044] Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing a process of changing the operation mode of the ranging module of the present disclosure according to the obtained illumination intensity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each of the drawings, when reference numerals are added to each element, the same element will be represented by the same reference numeral as much as possible, although the same element will be shown in different figures. In addition, in the following description of the present disclosure, when it is determined that the description may make the subject matter of the present disclosure unclear, the detailed description of the known functions and structures introduced herein will be omitted.

[0046] In addition, when describing the components of the present disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b) and the like may be used herein. These terms are only used to distinguish one structural element from other structural elements, and the properties, order, sequence, etc. of the corresponding structural elements are not limited by the terms. When it is described in the specification that a component is "connected", "coupled" or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that the first component can be directly connected, coupled or joined to the second component, and it can also be understood that a third component can be "connected", "coupled" and "joined" between the first component and the second component.

[0047] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 The distance measuring device 100 according to the first embodiment generally includes a light source 110 , a light receiving element 120 , a first optical element 130 , a second optical element 140 , a substrate 150 , a frame 160 , a partition 170 , and a processor 180 .

[0049] The light source 110 is disposed on the substrate 150 for emitting light. The light source 110 has an anode electrode electrically connected to an anode line of the substrate and a cathode electrode electrically connected to a cathode line of the substrate.

[0050] The light source 110 is connected to the substrate 150 by wire bonding. Alternatively, the light source 110 may be arranged on the substrate 150 by a flip chip bonding method without using a wire. In the case where the light source 110 is connected to the substrate 150 by the flip chip bonding method, no wire is required, so the size of the distance measuring device can be reduced.

[0051] If the light source can emit light such as laser, the present disclosure is not limited to a specific configuration of the light source 110. Preferably, the light source 110 may include a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL).

[0052] The light receiving element 120 is disposed on the substrate 150 for receiving light emitted from the light source 110 and returned from the object. The light receiving element 120 has an anode electrode electrically connected to the anode line of the substrate and a cathode electrode electrically connected to the cathode line of the substrate.

[0053] The light receiving element 120 is connected to the substrate 150 by wire bonding. Alternatively, the light receiving element 120 may be arranged on the substrate 150 by flip chip bonding without using a wire. In the case where the light receiving element 120 is connected to the substrate 150 by flip chip bonding, no wire is required, so the size of the distance measuring device can be reduced.

[0054] If the light receiving element 120 is configured to receive reflected light and form an image based on the received light, the present disclosure is not limited to its configuration. The light receiving element 120 may be an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) and a CMOS image sensor.

[0055] The light receiving element 120 receives light reflected by an object to calculate the distance between the distance measuring device 100 and the object. For example, a time-of-flight (ToF) type distance measuring device measures the travel time of light emitted from a light source and returned from an object to calculate the distance between the light source and the object based on the measured time. A structured light type distance measuring device analyzes the pattern of light returned from an object and received by a light receiving element to measure the distance between the light source and the object.

[0056] The first optical element 130 serves to reduce the intensity of light emitted from the light source 110 toward a predetermined space and passing through the first optical element 130. For example, the first optical element 130 diffuses light to widen the light reaching area, thereby reducing the intensity of light supplied to a unit area.

[0057] If the first optical element 130 is configured to reduce the intensity of light by diffusing the light, the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration thereof The light receiving element 120 may include a diffractive optical element (DOE) or a combination thereof.

[0058] The second optical element 140 is used to collect light output from the light source 110 to a predetermined space and returned from an object, and the light returned from the object passes through the second optical element 140. For example, the second optical element 140 may include at least one lens for collecting light returned from the object, so that the light receiving element 120 receives the light passing through the lens.

[0059] The second optical element 140 may include a lens frame 141 , a lens 142 , and a transparent substrate 143 .

[0060] The lens frame 141 supports the lens 142. The lens frame 141 is provided with a threaded portion, and the lens 142 is fastened to the threaded portion and thus supported by the lens frame 141. In the case where the lens frame 141 is provided with the threaded portion, the lens 142 can be fixed to the lens frame 141 while adjusting the height of the lens 142. Therefore, the height of the lens 142 can be easily adjusted during the fixing process, thereby easily and accurately aligning the focus of the light receiving element 120.

[0061] Alternatively, the lens frame 141 may not be provided with a threaded portion, but the lens 142 may be bonded to the lens frame 141 by an adhesive method.

[0062] The light collected by the lens 142 passes through the transparent substrate 143. A filter (not shown) that selectively allows only light of a specific wavelength to pass may be arranged on the transparent substrate 143. The filter may be an infrared filter. For example, an infrared filter is arranged on the transparent substrate 143, and in the case where the light emitted from the light source 110 is reflected by an object and then the light of the infrared wavelength enters the distance measuring device, the transparent substrate 143 selectively allows only the light of the infrared wavelength to pass, thereby reducing the noise that may be generated in the light receiving element 120 by the light of other wavelengths, and improving the resolution of the distance measuring device.

[0063] The substrate 150 can support the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120. The substrate 150 can be patterned using wiring. The substrate 150 is powered from the outside, and the electricity is supplied to the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 via the wiring. The substrate 150 can be formed of a multilayer structure and can include ceramics, but the present disclosure is not limited to these components. The ceramic can be a low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC).

[0064] If the substrate 150 includes ceramics, since the ceramic material has a good heat dissipation function, it is possible to effectively dissipate heat generated by the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 to the outside.

[0065] In addition, if the substrate 150 includes ceramics, the substrate 150 is formed by depositing ceramic layers, and patterns may be formed on each layer of the substrate 150 when deposited, if necessary. Therefore, the light source 110, the light receiving element 120, the processor 180, and the photosensitive element are electrically connected to each other via the patterns formed inside the substrate.

[0066] The frame 160 is arranged to be connected with the substrate 150, and the first and second optical elements 130 and 140 are spaced apart from the light receiving element 120 and the light source 110 by a predetermined interval (ie, a distance equal to the frame).

[0067] The frame 160 includes a frame 160a for forming the first cavity 1 on the light source 110 side and a frame 160b for forming the second cavity 2 on the light receiving element 120 side, wherein the frame 160b is formed to be lower than the frame 160a. Since the heights of the frames 160a and 160b are different from each other, the height of the first optical element 130 is higher than the height of the second optical element 140. In the case where the height of the frame on the light source 110 is higher than the height of the frame on the light receiving element 120, it is possible to block the path along which the light emitted from the light source 110 directly enters the light receiving element, thereby preventing the light emitted from the light source 110 from entering the second cavity 2 without being reflected back by an object.

[0068] The partition 170 is arranged between the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 to form a first cavity 1 on the light source 110 side and a second cavity 2 on the light receiving element 120 side in cooperation with the frame 160. The light source 110 is arranged in the first cavity 1 formed by the partition 170, and the light receiving element 120 is arranged in the second cavity 2.

[0069] The partition 170 prevents light emitted from the light source 110 from directly entering the second cavity 2 housing the light receiving element 120 without being reflected back by an object. To more effectively block light emitted from the light source 110 from entering the second cavity 2, a light shielding film may be disposed on the outer surface of the partition 170.

[0070] Similar to the substrate 150 , the frame 160 and the partition 170 may include ceramic, and the ceramic may be low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC).

[0071] If the frame 160 and the partition 170 include ceramics, heat generated from the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 can be effectively radiated to the outside. The frame 160 and the partition 170 may be formed by depositing a ceramic layer, and a pattern may be formed on each layer when deposited if necessary.

[0072] The power supply to the light source 110 is monitored or controlled by the processor 180, and the processor 180 is capable of controlling the power supplied to the light source 110 according to the normal mode and the eye-safe mode, respectively. For example, the processor 180 operates to supply power to the light source 110 only in the normal mode, and does not supply power to the light source 110 in the eye-safe mode. Alternatively, the processor 180 may operate to supply relatively low power to the light source in the eye-safe mode compared to the normal mode.

[0073] The processor 180 monitors the output of the light source 110, and if the output value of the light source 110 deviates from a reference level, the processor operates an eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source and thus protect the user's eyes.

[0074] The processor 180 is disposed on the bottom surface of the substrate 150 opposite to the light source 110, and is electrically connected to the light source 110 via wiring of the substrate 150. Meanwhile, in the case where the substrate 150 includes ceramic, the processor 180 is electrically connected to the light source 110 via patterns formed on layers inside the substrate 150.

[0075] Compared with a structure in which the processor 180 is arranged on the same surface of the substrate 150 as the light source 110 or the processor 180 is arranged outside the first cavity 1, the structure in which the processor 180 is arranged on the bottom surface of the substrate 150 opposite to the light source 110 results in a reduction in the physical distance connecting the light source 110 and the processor 180. Since the physical distance between the light source 110 and the processor 180 is reduced, the length of the wiring or pattern for electrically connecting the light source 110 and the processor 180 is shortened, so that data transmission between the light source 110 and the processor 180 that transmits or receives a pulse signal of a nanoscale unit can be performed quickly and accurately. Therefore, data loss and noise at the time of data transmission can be reduced, and electric energy for the light source 110 and the processor 180 can be reduced.

[0076] Since the processor 180 is disposed on the bottom surface of the substrate 150 opposite to the light source 110, the light source 110 and the processor 180 can be efficiently configured in a space within the ranging module, thereby reducing the volume of the ranging device and thus reducing the size of the module.

[0077] A metal grounding portion may be provided on the outer surfaces of the frame 150 and the partition 170. The metal grounding portion shields electromagnetic interference caused by electromagnetic waves generated from the outside of the ranging module 100. Therefore, it is possible to prevent electromagnetic interference from affecting the light source 110, the light receiving element 120, and the processor 180 in the ranging device, thereby improving the reliability of the ranging device 100.

[0078] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] Reference Figure 2 The distance measuring device 200 according to the second embodiment generally includes a light source 110 , a light receiving element 120 , a first optical element 130 , a second optical element 140 , a first substrate 251 , a second substrate 252 , a partition 170 , and a processor 180 .

[0080] The light source 110 is disposed on the first substrate 251, and the light receiving element 120 is disposed on the second substrate 252. The first substrate 251 is supported by the frame 160 and the partition 170 at a position where a height difference is formed between the first optical element 130 and the second substrate 252.

[0081] like Figure 2As shown, in the case where the substrate of the distance measuring device 200 is divided into the first substrate 251 and the second substrate 252, even if the processor 180 is arranged on the first substrate 251 opposite to the light source 110, the processor 180 is partially protected by the frame 160. Since the processor 180 is not exposed to the outside of the distance measuring device 200, it is possible to protect the processor from external impact or contaminant sources. The light source 110 and the processor 180 are arranged inside the distance measuring device 200, thereby reducing the volume of the distance measuring device 200.

[0082] The first substrate 251 and the second substrate 252 are electrically connected to each other via wiring formed on the partition 170. Therefore, the light source 110 is electrically connected to the light receiving element 120 via the wiring formed on the first substrate 251, the wiring formed on the partition 170, and the wiring formed on the second substrate 252, and thus can transmit or receive signals to or from the light receiving element 120.

[0083] The first substrate 251, the second substrate 252, the partition 170, and the frame 160 include ceramics, and the ceramics may be low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC). The first substrate 251, the second substrate 252, and the partition 170 may be formed by depositing a ceramic layer. In the case where the first substrate 251, the second substrate 252, and the partition 170 include ceramics, the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 are electrically connected to each other via patterns formed on the first substrate 251, the second substrate 252, and the partition 170.

[0084] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Reference Figure 3 The distance measuring device 300 according to the third embodiment generally includes a light source 110 , a light receiving element 120 , a first optical element 130 , a second optical element 140 , a first substrate 251 , a second substrate 252 , a partition 170 , a processor 180 , and a photosensor 390 .

[0086] The photosensitive element 390 is disposed on the first substrate 251 for measuring the illumination intensity of the light partially reflected by the first optical element 130. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The photosensitive element 390 is shown to be disposed on the first substrate 251, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the photosensitive element may be disposed on the substrate 150 of the distance measuring device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0087] The photosensitive element 390 is not limited in its configuration if it can measure the light reflected by the first optical element 130. Preferably, the photosensitive element is a photodiode.

[0088] The light emitted from the light source 110 is reflected by the first optical element 130, and the reflected light enters the photosensitive element 390 (see Figure 3 In this case, the photosensitive element 390 measures the illumination intensity of the incident light to send the illumination intensity value to the processor 180. The processor 180 determines whether the illumination intensity value deviates from a predetermined range, and if so, the processor runs an eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source 110, thereby protecting the user's eyes.

[0089] Specifically, in the case where the illumination intensity of the light emitted from the light source 110 is higher than the safety level due to the abnormal light source 110, a portion of the light emitted from the light source 110 is reflected by the first optical element 130, so that the illumination intensity of the reflected light may be higher than the predetermined level. In this case, the photosensitive element 390 measures the illumination intensity of the reflected light to send the illumination intensity value to the processor 180. The processor 180 determines whether the illumination intensity value deviates from the predetermined range, and if it deviates from the predetermined range, the processor runs the eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source 110.

[0090] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a case where the distance measuring device according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure is abnormal.

[0091] Reference Figure 4 , the first optical element 130 may be spaced apart from the frame 160 and the partition 170 due to an impact applied from the outside of the distance measuring device according to the third embodiment.

[0092] If the first optical element 130 deviates from the normal position, the light emitted from the light source 110 reaches the user's eyes without reducing the illumination intensity of the light, which may cause damage to the eyes. When the first optical element 130 deviates from the normal position, the path of the light emitted from the light source 110 and reflected back from the first optical element 130 is changed. Therefore, the amount of light entering the photosensitive element 390 is reduced. In other words, if the first optical element 130 is abnormal or damaged, the illumination intensity of the light measured by the photosensitive element 390 is lower than the case where the first optical element 130 is in the normal position, and thus the illumination intensity is lower than a predetermined level. If the illumination intensity of the light measured by the photosensitive element 390 is lower than the predetermined illumination intensity, the processor 180 operates the eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source 110 to protect the user's eyes.

[0093] Therefore, using the above construction of the ranging device according to these embodiments, when the light source 110 is damaged and outputs light higher than a predetermined illumination intensity or the first optical element 130 deviates from the normal position so that the illumination intensity of the output light is not reduced, the processor 180 runs an eye safety mode to protect the user's eyes.

[0094] The processor 180 is arranged on the substrate 251 opposite to the photosensitive element 390 and is electrically connected to the photosensitive element 390 via the substrate 251, which reduces the distance between the photosensitive element 390 and the processor 180. Therefore, the electrical connection distance between the photosensitive element 390 and the processor 180 is shortened, thereby accurately transmitting data and thus reducing loss and noise during data transmission.

[0095] Figure 5 is a view showing a via filler formed on a substrate of a distance measuring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A partial enlarged view of part A in FIG.

[0097] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The processor 180 is disposed on the first substrate 251 opposite to the light source 110 , and is electrically connected to the light source through a via filler 40 formed in the first substrate 251 .

[0098] The via filler 40 is not limited to a specific material if the material has conductivity. Preferably, the via filler contains copper, nickel, gold or a combination thereof.

[0099] In the case where the light source 110 and the processor 180 are electrically connected to each other through the via filler 40 formed in the first substrate 251, data can be transmitted or received through the via filler 40 (see Figure 6 30 in the figure), and can further shorten the physical distance connecting the light source 110 and the processor 180. Therefore, the resistance between the light source 110 and the processor 180 is reduced, which realizes accurate data transmission.

[0100] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a distance measuring device according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Reference Figure 7 , the distance measuring device 400 according to the fourth embodiment generally includes a light source 110 , a light receiving element 120 , a first optical element 130 , a second optical element 140 , a structural member 450 , and a processor 180 .

[0102] The structural member 450 supports the first optical element 130 and the second optical element 140 (wherein the first optical element 130 and the second optical element 140 are respectively away from the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 at a predetermined distance), and forms a first cavity 401 on the light source 110 side and a second cavity 402 on the light receiving element 120 side, so that the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 are separated from each other by a predetermined distance.

[0103] The structural member 450 may include ceramics, and if the structural member includes ceramics, heat generated from the light source 110 and the light receiving element 120 can be effectively radiated to the outside.

[0104] The structure member 450 may be formed by depositing a ceramic layer, and a pattern may be formed on each layer of the structure member when deposited if necessary. Thus, the light source 110, the light receiving element 120, and the processor 180 are electrically connected to each other via the pattern formed in the structure member.

[0105] A metal grounding portion may be provided on the outer surface of the structural member 450. The metal grounding portion shields electromagnetic interference caused by electromagnetic waves generated outside the ranging module. Therefore, it is possible to prevent electromagnetic interference from affecting the light source 110, the light receiving element 120, and the processor 180 in the ranging device, thereby improving the reliability of the ranging device 400.

[0106] In the case where the distance measuring device 400 includes the integral structural member 450 in which the frame, the substrate, and the partition are not joined to each other, the durability of the distance measuring device 400 is improved. Specifically, the integral structural member 450 does not require the frame to be joined to the substrate, nor does it require the partition to be joined to the substrate, thereby preventing mechanical defects that may occur in the joint portions of the components.

[0107] In addition, in the case where the distance measuring device 400 includes the integral structural member 450, it is possible to easily adjust the focus alignment between the second optical element 140 and the light receiving element 120. For example, in the case of a distance measuring device in which a frame is bonded to a substrate and a partition is bonded to the substrate, the focal length between the second optical element 140 and the light receiving element 120 may deviate from a predetermined value during the bonding process with the corresponding components due to a volume change of an adhesive for fixing the frame and the substrate. However, in the case where the distance measuring device 400 includes the integral structural member 450, the process of bonding the frame, the substrate, and the partition is not required, thereby accurately aligning the focal length.

[0108] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a process of changing an operation mode of a ranging module of the present disclosure according to an output value.

[0109] Reference Figure 8 The processor obtains an output value from the light source (S102). The output value may be energy consumed by the light source.

[0110] The processor determines whether the measured output value is lower than a reference output value (S104).

[0111] If the output value is lower than the reference output value, the processor operates the light source in normal mode (S106). If the output value is higher than the reference output value, the processor operates the light source in eye safety mode (S108). In the eye safety mode, the processor may turn off the light source or reduce the power supply to the light source.

[0112] Fig. 9 is a flow chart showing a process of changing the operation mode of the ranging module of the present disclosure according to the obtained illumination intensity.

[0113] Reference Fig. 9 The processor obtains the illumination intensity of the light through the photosensitive element (S202). Here, the illumination intensity of the light can be the illumination intensity of the light emitted from the light source and returned to the first optical element.

[0114] The processor determines whether the measured irradiation intensity of the light is higher than a reference value (S204).

[0115] If the illumination intensity of the light is within the reference value, the processor operates the light source in normal mode (S206). If the illumination intensity exceeds the reference value, the processor operates the light source in eye safety mode (S208). In eye safety mode, the processor may turn off the light source or reduce the power supply to the light source.

[0116] As described above, the distance measuring device according to the embodiments can protect the user's eyes even when a problem occurs in the distance measuring device.

[0117] Furthermore, using the distance measuring device according to the embodiment, it is possible to reduce data loss between the light source and the processor, and to reduce power consumption and achieve accurate data transmission.

[0118] Since terms such as "include", "comprising" and "having" mean that the corresponding elements may be present (unless otherwise specifically stated), they should be interpreted as being able to additionally include other elements rather than omitting these elements. Unless otherwise defined, all technical, scientific or other terms are used in accordance with the meanings understood by those skilled in the art. Unless otherwise clearly defined in the present disclosure, commonly used terms found in dictionaries should be interpreted based on the context of the relevant technical works, rather than being overly idealized or unrealistic.

[0119] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described for illustrative purposes, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, additions and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the embodiments disclosed in the attached claims. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure are intended to illustrate the scope of the technical ideas of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments. The scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted based on the attached claims so that all technical ideas included in the scope equivalent to the claims belong to the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A distance measuring device, comprising: a light source configured to emit light; a first optical element configured to reduce the intensity of light emitted from the light source, the light emitted from the light source passing through the first optical element; a light receiving element configured to receive light emitted from the light source toward a predetermined space and reflected from an object; a substrate configured to support the light source and the light receiving element; a second optical element, which is arranged at a position higher than that of the light receiving element and is used to collect the light reflected from the object, and the light reflected from the object passes through the second optical element; a frame arranged to be connected to the substrate and to space the first optical element and the second optical element from the light source and the light receiving element by a predetermined distance; a partition disposed between the light source and the light receiving element so as to cooperate with the frame to form a first cavity on the light source side and a second cavity on the light receiving element side; as well as A processor configured to monitor and control the output of the light source is disposed on a surface of the substrate opposite to a surface on which the light source is disposed and is electrically connected to the light source via a pattern formed inside the substrate.

2. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: If the output value of the light source deviates from a reference level, the processor operates an eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source.

3. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The distance measuring device further comprises a photosensitive element, which is arranged on the substrate and is used to measure the illumination intensity of the light reflected from the first optical element.

4. The distance measuring device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The processor operates an eye-safe mode to limit the output of the light source if the light measured by the photosensor is outside a predetermined baseline level.

5. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The substrate includes a first substrate and a second substrate, the light source and the processor are arranged on the first substrate, and the light receiving element is arranged on the second substrate.

6. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The frame, the partition, and the substrate include ceramic.

7. The distance measuring device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The ceramic is a low temperature co-fired ceramic.

8. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The processor is electrically connected to the light source through a via fill formed in the substrate.

9. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner surface of the frame and the outer surface of the partition are provided with metal grounding portions.

10. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second optical element includes an infrared filter.

11. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source comprises a vertical cavity surface emitting laser, and the first optical element comprises a diffuser for diffusing light.

12. A distance measuring device, comprising: a light source configured to emit light; a first optical element configured to reduce the intensity of light emitted from the light source, the light emitted from the light source passing through the first optical element; a light receiving element configured to receive light emitted from the light source toward a predetermined space and reflected from an object; a second optical element, which is arranged at a position higher than that of the light receiving element and is used to collect the light reflected from the object, and the light reflected from the object passes through the second optical element; a structural member configured to space the first optical element from the light source by a predetermined distance and to space the second optical element from the light receiving element by a predetermined distance, support the first optical element, the second optical element, the light source, and the light receiving element, and form a first cavity on the light source side and a second cavity on the light receiving element side, so that the light source and the light receiving element are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance; as well as A processor configured to monitor and control the output of the light source is disposed on a surface of the structure opposite to a surface on which the light source is disposed and is electrically connected to the light source via a pattern formed inside the structure.

13. The distance measuring device according to claim 12, characterized in that: If the output value of the light source deviates from a reference level, the processor operates an eye safety mode to limit the output of the light source.

14. The distance measuring device according to claim 13, characterized in that: The distance measuring device further includes a photosensitive element, which is arranged on the structural member and is used to measure the illumination intensity of the light reflected from the first optical element.

15. The distance measuring device according to claim 14, characterized in that: If the light measured by the photosensor deviates from a predetermined level, the processor operates an eye-safe mode to limit the output of the light source.

16. The distance measuring device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The structural member includes ceramic.

17. The distance measuring device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The ceramic is a low temperature co-fired ceramic.

18. The distance measuring device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The processor is electrically connected to the light source via a via filler formed in the structural member.

19. The distance measuring device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The inner surface of the structural member is provided with a metal grounding portion.

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