Multi-mode Illumination Module Using Microlens Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing illumination modules for structured light and patterned illumination lack versatility, depth, and high contrast over a wide range of distances, requiring complex setups and precise alignment, and struggle to produce both structured and diffuse light effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular illumination system with a microlens array and an illuminating unit, where the lens pitch, distance, and wavelength are optimized to achieve high contrast structured light, allowing for operation in multiple modes with different light distributions, including structured and diffuse light, using a mode selector and actuator to adjust orientations and light sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If existing illumination modules use complex setups with multiple optical components to achieve structured light, then the light distribution quality improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the illuminating unit and microlens array into a single integrated illumination module. The microlens array is directly coupled with the light source, eliminating the need for separate optical components and complex alignment mechanisms. This merging achieves structured light generation while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination module is designed to operate in multiple modes (structured light mode and diffuse light mode) using the same basic components. By controlling the illumination conditions and microlens array configuration, the single module can generate different light distributions, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
2Measurement precision
If existing illumination modules use precise alignment mechanisms to maintain high contrast, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microlens array is designed with specific pitch and focal length parameters that enable self-alignment with the light source. The modular design allows the microlens array to automatically position itself relative to the LED, maintaining high contrast structured light without requiring complex external alignment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes specific parameters including microlens pitch (P), focal length (f), and distance from light source (D) to achieve high contrast. By carefully selecting these parameters, the system maintains measurement precision while simplifying alignment requirements, as the optimized parameters create inherent stability in the optical path.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing illumination modules use additional optical components to extend working distance range, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination module incorporates adjustable parameters including the ability to change the distance between the light source and microlens array, and to switch between structured light and diffuse light modes. This dynamic adjustability extends the working distance range without requiring additional fixed optical components, as the same components can be reconfigured for different operating conditions.
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 system provides high contrast and versatility, enabling efficient distance determination and pattern generation with reduced complexity and alignment requirements, maintaining high contrast over a wide range of distances without the need for additional optical components.
Implementation Method 1
a microlens array including a multitude of transmissive or reflective microlenses
Implementation Method 2
for the lens pitch P, the distance D and the wavelength L1 applies P2=2·L1·D/N
Implementation Method 3
the light sources of the first array of light sources are operated to emit light of a first wavelength L1 each and to illuminate the microlens array
Data Source
AI summary
The illumination module for emitting light (5) can operate in at least two different modes, wherein in each of the modes, the emitted light (5) has a different light distribution. The module has a mode selector (10) for selecting the mode in which the module operates, and it has an optical arrangement. The arrangement includes—a microlens array (LL1) with a multitude of transmissive or reflective microlenses (2) which are regularly arranged at a lens pitch P (P1);—an illuminating unit for illuminating the microlens array (LL1). The illuminating unit includes a first array of light sources (S1) operable to emit light of a first wavelength L1 each and having an aperture each. The apertures are located in a common emission plane which is located at a distance D (D1) from the microlens array (LL1). In a first one of the modes, for the lens pitch P, the distance D and the wavelength L1 applies P2=2·L1·D/N wherein N is an integer with N≥1.