Folded Light Path Optical Sensor for Thin Display Integration

The patent transitions from conventional three-dimensional optical elements (lenses and air gaps) to a two-dimensional planar light conditioning structure. The light conditioning element is disposed substantially coplanar with the photodetector array, eliminating the need for vertical air gaps and thick lens assemblies. This dimensional change allows light conditioning to occur within the plane of the sensor device, dramatically reducing overall device thickness while maintaining optical functionality.

The patent extracts and eliminates the air gap component from the optical path that is present in conventional optical sensors. By removing this unnecessary vertical space and replacing it with a planar light conditioning element directly coupled to the photodetector array, the design achieves effective light conditioning without the thickness penalty of traditional air-gap-based optical systems.

The patent merges the light conditioning functionality directly with the photodetector array by disposing the light conditioning element substantially coplanar with the photodetectors. This integration eliminates the need for separate, vertically-stacked optical components and air gaps, allowing the entire optical sensing function to be achieved within a thin, planar structure that is easier to manufacture and integrate into compact devices.

By moving from three-dimensional vertical stacking of optical elements to a two-dimensional planar configuration, the patent simplifies the integration process. The coplanar arrangement of the light conditioning element with the photodetector array allows for more straightforward fabrication and assembly, as components can be integrated in a single plane rather than requiring precise vertical alignment of multiple thick layers.