Arrayed Image Switching with Tiltable Mirrors for Optical Multiplexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems struggle with rapid image steering and switching, especially in high-resolution and multi-spectral applications, due to size, weight, and power constraints, and are vulnerable to bright spots that can damage sensors, necessitating improved optical switching systems with analog orientation control and multiplexing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An arrayed image switch (AIS) with independently tiltable reflecting elements, controlled by an electronic controller, allows for analog intensity control and multiplexing, enabling dynamic image switching and attenuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If binary coronagraph-type approaches are used for image switching, then device complexity is reduced, but multiplexing capability and intensity control are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical aperture into multiple independently controllable segments or elements. Each segment can be individually tilted or oriented to direct light from different directions into the sensor, enabling multiplexing of multiple image channels simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high adaptability without requiring a single complex moving mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable optical elements that can change their orientation or tilt angle in real-time. Each segmented element can be independently positioned to redirect light from different spatial locations, enabling rapid switching between multiple image channels and providing continuous intensity control through analog positioning rather than binary states.
2Ease of operation
If gimbaled or galvanometer systems are used for image steering, then image routing capability is achieved, but speed and refresh rate are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large gimbal or galvanometer to steer the entire image, the patent segments the aperture into multiple smaller elements that can be independently controlled. This allows parallel operation of multiple small actuators, achieving faster overall response and higher refresh rates compared to a single macroscopic steering mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical gimbal or galvanometer systems with alternative actuation mechanisms for the segmented elements. These may include piezoelectric actuators, shape memory alloys, or other fast-response mechanisms that can tilt or position the small optical elements at speeds much faster than conventional mechanical steering systems.
3Ease of operation
If single large reflector is used for image steering, then image routing is achieved, but size, weight and power demands increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a single large reflector with multiple smaller segmented elements. Each element is much lighter and requires less power to actuate. The collective array of small elements achieves the same image routing capability as a large reflector, but with dramatically reduced weight, size, and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functionality of multiple small optical elements into a unified array system that collectively performs image routing. By merging the capabilities of many small, lightweight elements, the system achieves the functional equivalence of a large reflector while maintaining the advantages of small component size and low individual actuator requirements.
4Device complexity
If binary switching is used for each array element, then device complexity is reduced, but intensity control precision is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static binary switching to dynamic analog control of the optical elements. Each element can be positioned at multiple discrete angles or continuously tilted, providing graded intensity control rather than simple on/off states. This dynamic positioning enables precise modulation of light intensity from each aperture segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from binary state (on/off) to continuous or multi-level angular position. By varying the tilt angle or orientation of each optical element, the system can modulate the intensity of light directed to the sensor in an analog manner, achieving precise intensity control while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
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 rapid, high-resolution imaging and projection, with enhanced sensitivity to bright sources and expanded dynamic range, decoupling resolution from field of view, and preventing sensor damage.
Implementation Method 1
each forming at least one of a respective image channel or a portion of a respective image channel, and each configured to receive at least a portion of the incoming optical signal... reflecting elements... positionable at more than two different angles for receiving and reflecting at least a respective portion of the incoming optical signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system for forming a segmented optical imaging array for receiving an incoming optical signal. The system makes use of an arrayed image switch (AIS) having a plurality of independently tiltable reflecting elements each forming at least one of a respective image channel or a portion of a respective image channel, and each configured to receive at least a portion of the incoming optical signal. Each of the elements is responsive to electrical element pointing commands, and each is positionable at more than two different angles for receiving and reflecting at least a respective portion of the incoming optical signal as a respective output therefrom, either along an optical output path or at least partially away from the optical output path. An electronic controller generates the electrical element pointing commands for each one of the elements. A sensor disposed in the optical output path receives any one or more of the respective outputs from each one of the elements which are directed along the optical output path, and creates an image therefrom.