Flexible PCB Photodetector Array for Curved Focal Surface Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems face challenges in precisely positioning multiple photodetectors at desired locations on a curved focal surface defined by an optical system, which affects the accuracy and resolution of light detection and ranging applications.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) with photodetectors is used, where the PCB is initially mounted in a flat configuration and then curved to conform to the shape of the focal surface using clamping pieces with corresponding convex and concave surfaces, ensuring each photodetector is positioned at a precise three-dimensional location on the focal surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If photodetectors are mounted on a flat substrate, then manufacturing and assembly is simplified, but the photodetectors cannot be precisely positioned on a curved focal surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by forming the flexible substrate into a curved configuration that matches the focal surface of the optical system. The substrate is bent or molded to conform to the spherical or curved geometry required for precise photodetector positioning on the focal surface, directly resolving the contradiction between flat manufacturing simplicity and curved positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and geometric parameters of the substrate by transitioning it from a flat to a curved configuration. This parameter change allows the substrate to adapt to the focal surface geometry while maintaining the flexibility needed for precise positioning, thereby improving manufacturing precision without permanently complicating the device structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If a rigid substrate is used to maintain precise photodetector positioning on a curved surface, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the substrate cannot be easily manufactured or adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible substrate that can be easily manufactured and formed into curved configurations. This flexible film or shell maintains precise photodetector positioning when shaped to match the focal surface, while also being easy to fabricate and adjust, thereby resolving the contradiction between positioning accuracy and manufacturing ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate is designed to be dynamically formable, allowing it to be curved or shaped during assembly to match the focal surface geometry. This dynamic capability enables precise positioning to be achieved through simple shaping operations rather than complex rigid fabrication processes, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining positioning accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If multiple photodetectors are positioned at precise three-dimensional locations on a curved focal surface, then light detection resolution is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using a single flexible substrate to simultaneously achieve multiple functions: positioning multiple photodetectors at precise three-dimensional locations, maintaining mechanical stability on the curved focal surface, and providing electrical interconnections. This universal substrate design improves light detection resolution without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions into the flexible substrate structure, combining mechanical support, geometric positioning, and electrical connectivity functions. By integrating these functions into a single component rather than using separate elements, the system achieves high measurement precision while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
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
This approach allows for accurate and precise placement of photodetectors on a curved focal surface, enhancing the resolution and accuracy of light detection in LIDAR systems and other applications, enabling the creation of detailed 'point cloud' maps of environments.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system that defines a focal surface having a curved shape
Implementation Method 2
The received light can be detected by one or more photodetectors
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In some applications, it may be desirable to position multiple photodetectors at precise locations on a curved focal surface defined by an optical system. To achieve this positioning, the photodetectors may be mounted at desired locations on a flexible substrate that is in a flat configuration. The flexible substrate with mounted photodetectors can then be shaped to substantially conform to the shape of the curved focal surface. This shaping can be accomplished by clamping the flexible substrate between at least two clamping pieces. The curved flexible substrate clamped between the at least two clamping pieces can be positioned relative to the optical system such that the photodetectors are positioned at desired three-dimensional locations on the curved focal surface.