Laser Mixing Module Using Polarization Beam Splitters

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing laser mixing modules in laser projection apparatuses require a large volume due to the alternate arrangement of laser sources and reflection mirrors, which hinders the thinning design of the apparatus.

Innovation Solution

The use of polarization beam splitters and dichroic mirrors to mix polarization lights from different laser sources, allowing for a more compact configuration by eliminating the need for alternate laser source and mirror arrangements, thereby reducing the overall volume of the module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If reflection mirrors are disposed in alternate arrangement with laser sources, then light mixing function is achieved, but the overall volume of the module increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoverall volume of laser mixing moduleVSAvoidarrangement complexity of optical components

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple optical functions (beam splitting, polarization separation, wavelength separation) into integrated optical components. The polarization beam splitter combines beam splitting and polarization separation functions, while dichroic mirrors combine reflection and wavelength separation functions, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall module volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes different optical dimensions and pathways to mix laser beams. By employing polarization states (horizontal/vertical) and wavelength dimensions (different colors), the system can mix multiple laser sources without requiring them to be physically alternated in space, thereby reducing the module's footprint while maintaining the light mixing function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If laser sources are arranged alternately with reflection mirrors, then light reflection and mixing is achieved, but the module volume cannot be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule volumeVSAvoidoptical component layout simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The polarization beam splitter and dichroic mirrors serve multiple functions simultaneously. The polarization beam splitter handles both beam direction control and polarization separation, while dichroic mirrors perform both wavelength-based beam routing and intensity balancing, simplifying the overall optical layout and making the system more compact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of moving object

If regular intervals are maintained between reflection mirrors, then proper light reflection is achieved, but adjacent laser sources cannot be closely positioned

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegap between laser sourcesVSAvoidlight reflection efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the operational parameters of optical components to achieve compact design. By using polarization beam splitters with specific polarization angles and dichroic mirrors with tailored wavelength reflectivity curves, the system maintains high reflection efficiency while allowing laser sources to be positioned much closer together than traditional mirror-based systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 minimizes the gap between adjacent laser sources and simplifies the optical component layout, resulting in a more compact and efficient laser mixing module that supports the thinning design of the laser projection apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

The first polarization beam splitter is obliquely disposed at a position where the first optical axis intersects the second optical axis for reflecting the first polarization light and allowing the second polarization light to pass therethrough

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPolarization beam splitting: Polarisation

Implementation Method 2

The first dichroic mirror is obliquely disposed at a position where the second optical axis intersects the fifth optical axis for reflecting the first laser beam and allowing the laser light to pass therethrough

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDichroic reflection: Dichroic Filter

Implementation Method 3

The condensing lens is disposed at the fifth optical axis for condensing the third laser beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLens focusing: Lens

Data Source

PatentUS11360371B2Laser mixing module

Publication Date: 2022.06.14 QISDA CORP

AI summary

A laser mixing module includes first, second, and third laser sets and a condensing lens. The first laser set includes first and second laser sources and a first polarization beam splitter reflecting a polarization light of the first laser source and allowing a polarization light of the second laser source to pass for forming a first laser beam. The second laser set includes third and fourth laser sources and a second polarization beam splitter reflecting a polarization light of the third laser source and allowing a polarization light of the fourth laser source to pass therethrough for forming a second laser beam. The third laser set includes a fifth laser source and first and second dichroic mirrors respectively reflecting the first and second laser beams and allowing a light of the fifth laser source to pass for forming a third laser beam. The condensing lens condenses the third laser beam.