Independently Addressable Laser Array for 3D Beam Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional lighting sources are limited to 2-dimensional displays and lack the directional control and power efficiency of laser lighting, which has not been widely adopted due to technological limitations and eye safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A laser array system that allows for direct beam shaping, high irradiance, and efficient use of light, with independent control of each laser element for color and intensity, enabling 3-dimensional displays and replacing traditional lighting sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional lighting sources are used, then ease of manufacture and reliability are maintained, but directional control and power efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting system into multiple independently controllable laser elements arranged in an array, where each element can be individually addressed and controlled. This segmentation allows for precise directional control and efficient power usage while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic control of laser element intensity and activation states based on real-time requirements. By dynamically adjusting which elements are active and at what intensity levels, the system optimizes power efficiency while adapting to different operational conditions and maintaining reliability.
2Illumination intensity
If laser array is used, then directional control and beam quality are improved, but eye safety concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the light source into multiple discrete laser elements with independent control, the system can distribute illumination across multiple points rather than concentrating high intensity in a single beam. This reduces the hazard level of individual beams while maintaining overall illumination quality and directionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial activation of laser elements, adjusting intensity levels to match actual illumination needs. By activating only necessary elements at appropriate intensity levels rather than maximum power, the system maintains beam quality where needed while reducing eye safety risks in other areas.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lighting sources are used, then cost and complexity are lower, but information display capability is limited to 2-dimensional
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 2-dimensional planar displays to 3-dimensional volumetric displays by utilizing the spatial properties of laser beams. Multiple laser elements can create light patterns in three-dimensional space, adding depth and volume to displays while maintaining manageable complexity through systematic control methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser array system serves multiple functions: it can display 2-dimensional images, create 3-dimensional visualizations, provide directional lighting, and offer high-resolution patterns. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while the underlying technology platform remains consistent, managing overall system complexity.
4Shape
If laser array is used, then beam shaping and directional control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves complex beam shaping by controlling individual laser elements independently rather than using complex optical components for each beam. Each element can be shaped and directed separately, and complex patterns emerge from the coordinated action of simple, controllable units, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical beam shaping components (lenses, mirrors, apertures) with electronic control of laser element properties. By using electronic modulation and selective activation of elements rather than physical optical components, the system achieves beam shaping with reduced mechanical 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
The laser array system provides incredibly sharp, focusable beams with higher directional control and efficiency than traditional light sources, enabling 3-dimensional visual presentations and efficient use in various applications, including entertainment and data visualization.
Implementation Method 1
Laser lighting is a promising illumination source due to its increased directionality, higher power densities
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are a plurality of laser sources forming an element. Multiple laser elements are arranged in a pattern to form an array. Each laser element of the array is independently addressable, such that video and other content can be projected from the array.