Edge-Emitting Laser Light Coupling via Inclined Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light-emitting components for time-of-flight measurements are not efficient in producing short light pulses due to limitations in light deflection and coupling within the component structure.
Innovation Solution
An edge-emitting semiconductor laser is arranged within a housing with a first and second light-transmissive layer, where the emission opening is positioned outside the emission angle range, and an inclined interface between the layers enhances light coupling, with additional scattering particles and reflective surfaces to achieve efficient light deflection and shorter pulse duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the emission opening is arranged within the emission angle range of the semiconductor laser, then direct light emission is achieved, but the light path is too short and coupling-out is insufficient for time-of-flight measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an inclined interface between the first and second light-transmissive layers as an intermediary element to deflect light from the semiconductor laser toward the emission opening. This interface acts as a mediator that redirects light paths without requiring direct alignment between the laser and emission opening, thereby increasing the light path length while maintaining efficient coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The emission opening is positioned outside the emission angle range of the semiconductor laser, utilizing a different spatial dimension or orientation. By arranging the emission opening at a position that is not directly in line with the laser's emission cone, the design exploits dimensional repositioning to achieve longer light paths through the light-transmissive layers.
2Length of moving object
If the emission opening is arranged outside the emission angle range of the semiconductor laser, then longer light path is achieved, but direct emission is not possible and requires deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the inclined interface: it serves as both the boundary between the first and second light-transmissive layers and as the light-deflecting element. By merging the layer separation function with the light deflection function, the design achieves longer light paths without adding separate deflection components, thus avoiding increased structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclined interface performs multiple functions simultaneously: it separates the two light-transmissive layers, deflects light toward the emission opening, and contributes to the overall light coupling efficiency. This multi-functionality allows the structure to achieve longer light paths without requiring additional dedicated deflection elements that would increase complexity.
3Productivity
If more scattering particles are added to the second layer, then improved light deflection is achieved, but the construction becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies scattering particles selectively in the second light-transmissive layer rather than uniformly throughout the entire light path. This local application of scattering particles optimizes light deflection in the specific region where it is most needed, while avoiding unnecessary material complexity in other areas of the structure.
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 solution enables the production of compact, efficient light-emitting components capable of emitting short light pulses, suitable for time-of-flight measurements with improved light coupling and deflection, facilitating applications such as distance measurement in vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an interface is provided between the first and second layers. At least part of the light emitted by the semiconductor laser is directed directly onto the interface between the first and second layers. An improved and faster coupling-out, that is to say deflection of the light in the direction of the emission opening, is achieved in this way.
Implementation Method 2
at least one part of the inner wall of the housing and/or a part of the base of the housing being formed in reflective fashion
Implementation Method 3
at least 5% more scattering particles are arranged in the second layer than in the first layer
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment a light-emitting component includes a housing and an edge emitting semiconductor laser arranged in the housing, wherein the semiconductor laser is configured to emit light at a side face in an angle range, wherein the housing includes an emission opening for emitting the light, wherein the semiconductor laser is arranged in a first layer having a first material, wherein a second layer is arranged on the first layer, the second layer having a second material, wherein the first layer and the second layer are transmissive to the light, wherein the second layer is arranged between the first layer and the emission opening, wherein the emission opening lies at least partly outside the angle range of the semiconductor laser, and wherein a part of the light is directed directly onto an interface between the first and second layers.