Distance Measuring Device with Movable Optical Path Adjuster

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional camera devices in cell phones and tablets cannot capture 3D images or create 3D models of objects, limiting their ability to obtain both color and distance information in 3D space, especially with the advancements in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies.

Innovation Solution

A distance measuring device is developed, comprising a light-emitting module with a housing, a light source, a light grating element, and an optical path adjuster, along with a driving assembly that moves relative to the housing, and a light-receiving module to capture reflected light and obtain distance information, enabling the creation of 3D models with color information by emitting measuring light, which is reflected and processed by both infrared and visible light sensors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional camera device is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot capture 3D images or establish a 3D model of an object

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D imaging capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functional components into a nested structure where the light grating element is positioned within the housing, the optical path adjuster is nested within the light-emitting module, and multiple optical elements are arranged in a compact nested configuration to achieve 3D imaging capability without significantly increasing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a movable optical path adjuster that can change position to modify the optical path of emitted light, enabling dynamic adjustment of measurement angles and distances. This dynamic component allows the device to capture 3D spatial information by varying light emission paths while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If a light-emitting module with movable components is used, then distance measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance measurement accuracyVSAvoidlight-emitting module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the light-emitting module into distinct functional segments: a stationary housing, a movable optical path adjuster, and a light grating element. This segmentation allows the complex measurement function to be achieved through coordinated movement of individual components rather than requiring complex integration, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The optical path adjuster serves as an intermediary component between the light source and the light grating element. By positioning and moving this intermediary element, the system can precisely control light path geometry to achieve accurate distance measurements without requiring direct complex interaction between all other components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The device effectively captures 3D models with color information by projecting and receiving measuring light, allowing for accurate distance and color data acquisition, enhancing capabilities in VR and AR applications.

Implementation Method 1

The light source emits a measuring light through the optical path adjuster and the light grating element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Implementation Method 2

The light-receiving module receives the measuring light which is reflected by the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

The driving assembly can drive the optical path adjuster or the light grating element to move relative to the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical motion:

Data Source

PatentUS11841461B2Distance measuring device and light-emitting module thereof
Publication Date: 2023.12.12 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US11841461B2 patent drawing
  • US11841461B2 patent drawing
  • US11841461B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A distance measuring device for measuring the distance to an object is provided, including a light-emitting module, a driving assembly disposed in the light-emitting module, and a light-receiving module. The light-emitting module has a housing, a light source disposed in the housing, a light grating element, and an optical path adjuster. The light source emits a measuring light through the optical path adjuster and the light grating element. The driving assembly can drive the optical path adjuster or the light grating element to move relative to the housing. The light-receiving module receives the measuring light which is reflected by the object to obtain distance information of the object.