Dual Lens Array Laser Diffusion for Speckle Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source devices for projectors that use laser light modulation suffer from increased size and cost due to the need for a rotating mechanism to reduce speckle noise.
Innovation Solution
A light source device with a diffusion element that includes a first lens array on the incidence surface and a second lens array on the emission surface, where the second lens elements form light source images of different sizes on the image formation plane, effectively diffusing the laser light without the need for a rotating mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a rotating mechanism is used to rotate the substrate of the light diffusion element, then speckle noise is reduced, but the device size increases and device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotating substrate system with a dual lens array system. The first lens array divides laser light into multiple light fluxes, and the second lens array emits these light fluxes toward the image formation plane. This optical system achieves speckle noise reduction without requiring any rotating mechanical components, thereby eliminating the size and cost issues associated with rotation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the light diffusion function into two separate lens arrays. The first lens array segments the laser light into multiple light fluxes, and the second lens array further processes these light fluxes. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the speckle reduction effect without needing a single complex rotating diffusion element, thereby reducing device size and complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a rotating mechanism is used to rotate the substrate of the light diffusion element, then speckle noise is reduced, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotating substrate system with a dual lens array system. The first lens array divides laser light into multiple light fluxes, and the second lens array emits these light fluxes toward the image formation plane. This optical system achieves speckle noise reduction without requiring any rotating mechanical components, thereby eliminating the size and cost issues associated with rotation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses simple, static lens arrays instead of expensive, complex rotating mechanisms. The lens arrays are relatively simple optical components that can be manufactured at lower cost compared to precision rotation mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device cost while achieving the same speckle reduction function.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a diffusion plate is arranged on the optical path of laser light, then speckle noise is reduced, but the device becomes large-scaled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotating substrate system with a dual lens array system. The first lens array divides laser light into multiple light fluxes, and the second lens array emits these light fluxes toward the image formation plane. This optical system achieves speckle noise reduction without requiring any rotating mechanical components, thereby eliminating the size and cost issues associated with rotation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using lens arrays with specific focal lengths and arrangements. The first lens array has a first focal length and the second lens array has a second focal length, creating specific light flux paths that achieve effective diffusion and speckle reduction in a compact configuration, avoiding the need for large-scale diffusion plates.
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 configuration allows for reduced speckle noise in projected images while maintaining a compact device size and reducing costs, as it eliminates the need for complex rotating mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens array in which a plurality of first lens elements that divide the first laser light into a plurality of light fluxes are arranged
Implementation Method 2
a second lens array in which a plurality of second lens elements that emit the light fluxes incident via the plurality of first lens elements toward an image formation plane are arranged
Implementation Method 3
a diffusion element which is provided on an optical path of the first laser light and diffuses the light
Data Source
AI summary
A light source device includes: a first laser light source which emits first laser light; and a diffusion element which is provided on an optical path of the first laser light and diffuses the light, wherein the diffusion element includes: a first lens array in which a plurality of first lens elements that divide the first laser light into a plurality of light fluxes are arranged; and a second lens array in which a plurality of second lens elements that emit the light fluxes incident via the plurality of first lens elements toward an image formation plane are arranged, wherein the first lens array is disposed on an incidence surface of the diffusion element, wherein the second lens array is disposed on an emission surface of the diffusion element, and wherein at least two second lens elements among the plurality of second lens elements form light source images having different sizes in different regions on the image formation plane.