Dual Meta Structure Optical Device for Distortion Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional optical devices with a single meta structure cannot simultaneously control the chief ray angle and correct for grid distortion, limiting their ability to achieve high-quality images over a large field of view.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a substrate with a first meta structure on its bottom surface and a second meta structure on the cover layer's top surface, along with a light-shielding layer and optional third meta structures, which utilize nano-pillars of varying sizes made from dielectric materials to control light and reduce distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single meta structure is used in the optical device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to simultaneously control chief ray angle and correct grid distortion is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical correction function into two separate meta structures: a first meta structure on the substrate for controlling chief ray angle, and a second meta structure on the cover layer for correcting grid distortion. This segmentation allows each structure to be optimized for its specific function while achieving both corrections simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and image quality.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional refractive optical devices are used, then the thickness can be larger for better optical performance, but the device size increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses meta structures with subwavelength spacing that operate at thicknesses on the order of the wavelength of light, representing a dramatic parameter change from traditional refractive surfaces that require thicknesses 10-100 times larger. This parameter change enables high optical performance in an ultra-thin form factor, resolving the contradiction between optical performance and device thickness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view is increased to capture more scene, then the distortion increases, but the image clarity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light-shielding layer with an aperture as an intermediary element that works in conjunction with the meta structures. This intermediary component helps control light paths across the large field of view while the meta structures correct distortion, enabling both wide field of view and high image clarity to coexist without compromising either parameter.
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 optical device achieves less than 10% distortion over a 40-degree field of view and maintains a modulation transfer function greater than 50% at 100 cycles/mm spatial frequency, enabling improved image clarity and simultaneous control of the chief ray angle.
Implementation Method 1
An optical device that includes a meta structure is a diffractive optical device in which individual waveguide elements have subwavelength spacing and have a planar profile. Compared to traditional refractive optical devices, the optical device that includes a meta structure abruptly introduces phase shifts onto light field.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device is provided. The optical device includes a substrate that has a top surface and a bottom surface. The optical device also includes a cover layer disposed on the substrate, and the cover layer has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface of the cover layer faces the bottom surface of the substrate. The optical device further includes a first meta structure disposed on the bottom surface of the substrate and a second meta structure disposed on the top surface of the cover layer. Moreover, the optical device includes a detector disposed on the bottom surface of the cover layer.