Laser Module Alignment Using Micromirror Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning and positioning laser modules in virtual retinal displays are complex and lack robustness, especially when dealing with different optical paths and wavelengths.
Innovation Solution
A method using a micromirror to scan laser beams over a target, detecting reflection signals, and adjusting the alignment and position of laser modules until matching operating parameters are achieved, allowing for precise calibration of laser modules without the need for wavelength-specific optics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex methods are used for aligning laser modules with different optical paths, then alignment precision may be improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A common target is introduced as an intermediary element that all laser modules scan. This mediator enables precise alignment measurement by providing a unified reference point, while the alignment device automatically detects and processes signals from multiple laser modules, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with an automated optical detection system. The alignment device automatically scans and detects laser beams using a common target, substituting manual mechanical adjustment with automated optical measurement and control, thereby simplifying the alignment process while maintaining high precision.
2Measurement precision
If wavelength-specific optics are used for each laser module, then alignment accuracy for specific wavelengths is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal alignment approach where a single common target and alignment device serve multiple laser modules with different wavelengths. The alignment device is designed to detect various wavelengths simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate wavelength-specific optical components for each laser module while maintaining alignment accuracy across all wavelengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter of the alignment device to be wavelength-agnostic. Instead of using optics tuned to specific wavelengths, the system uses a detection mechanism that can identify and process signals from multiple wavelengths through the same optical path, thereby simplifying the optical system while preserving alignment precision for all laser modules.
3Measurement precision
If multiple separate alignment devices are used for different laser modules, then individual module alignment precision is improved, but overall device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate alignment devices into a single integrated alignment device that can simultaneously detect and process signals from multiple laser modules. This unified device uses a common target and shared detection path, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate alignment systems, thereby reducing space requirements and overall device complexity while maintaining individual module alignment precision.
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 method enables precise, robust, and reliable calibration of laser modules, achieving high accuracy and simplicity in aligning all wavelengths of a laser projector, even with different focal lengths, without requiring complex optics or cameras.
Implementation Method 1
a laser beam output by the laser module is scanned, in particular over the entire area, by a micromirror (MEM) over a region which comprises a target
Implementation Method 2
a reflection signal, in particular reflected by the target, of the scanned laser beam and another reflection signal, in particular reflected by the target, of the other scanned laser beam are detected
Data Source
AI summary
A method for aligning and/or positioning a laser module of a laser projector relative to at least one other laser module of the laser projector. A laser beam output by the laser module is scanned by a micromirror over a region which includes a target; Another laser beam output by the other laser module is scanned by the same micromirror over another region which includes the same target. A reflection signal of the scanned laser beam and another reflection signal of the other scanned laser beam are detected based on a micromirror operating parameter which is detected or ascertained simultaneously with the respective reflection signals. The alignment and/or position of at least the laser module is adapted.