Adjustable Mirror Positioning Using Existing Image Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate positioning of components in optical systems like LiDAR and OCT is challenging due to the complexity and cost increases associated with adding positioning systems and components.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising an adjustable mirror, image sensor, and optical components that utilize laser light to scan a sample while simultaneously determining the mirror's position using the same image sensor, enabling accurate positioning without increasing system complexity or cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If positioning systems and additional positioning components are added to an optical system, then positioning accuracy is improved, but system complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is designed to perform dual functions: capturing images of the sample for analysis and simultaneously detecting the position of the adjustable mirror through reflected laser light. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate positioning sensors, thereby improving positioning accuracy without increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing image sensor and laser light to self-determine the position of the adjustable mirror. The mirror itself serves as the object being positioned, and the system utilizes its own components (image sensor, laser light path) to detect its position, rather than requiring external positioning equipment
2Measurement precision
If positioning systems and additional positioning components are added to an optical system, then positioning accuracy is improved, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is designed to perform dual functions: capturing images of the sample for analysis and simultaneously detecting the position of the adjustable mirror through reflected laser light. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate positioning sensors, thereby improving positioning accuracy without increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing image sensor and laser light to self-determine the position of the adjustable mirror. The mirror itself serves as the object being positioned, and the system utilizes its own components (image sensor, laser light path) to detect its position, rather than requiring external positioning equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate scanning and positioning of adjustable mirrors in optical systems, utilizing existing image sensors to reduce complexity and cost, suitable for various laser scanning systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one adjustable mirror configured to enable laser light from a laser light source to be incident on the at least one adjustable mirror and to enable at least some of the laser light reflected by the at least one adjustable mirror to be used for scanning of a sample
Implementation Method 2
one or more optical components configured to guide, at least some, laser light reflected by the at least one adjustable mirror towards the at least one image sensor
Implementation Method 3
at least one image sensor; and one or more optical components configured to guide, at least some, laser light reflected by the at least one adjustable mirror towards the at least one image sensor so that one or more images obtained by the at least one image sensor provide an indication of a position of the at least one adjustable mirror
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for positioning at least one adjustable mirror in optical systems such as laser scanning systems. The optical systems could be LiDAR systems or OCT systems or any other suitable systems. The apparatus comprises at least one adjustable mirror configured to enable laser light from a laser light source to be incident on the at least one adjustable mirror and to enable at least some of the laser light reflected by the at least one adjustable mirror to be used for scanning of a sample. The apparatus also comprises at least one image sensor and one or more optical components configured to guide, at least some, laser light reflected by the at least one adjustable mirror towards the at least one image sensor. This enables images obtained by the at least one image sensor to provide an indication of a position of the at least one adjustable mirror. This can enable an existing component of the optical system to be used to determine the position of the adjustable mirror.