Laser Projection Module Diffractive Optical Element Switching Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional three-dimensional sensing technologies require separate components for projecting patterned and flood light fields, leading to low system integration, large volume, and high cost.
Innovation Solution
A laser projection module incorporating a laser source and a diffractive optical element that switches between two operating modes to project both patterned and uniform light fields, using a diffractive optical element that changes its incident state to adapt the light field projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate components are used for projecting patterned light field and flood light field, then the projection functions can be realized, but the system integration is low, volume is large, and cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the patterned light field projection function and flood light field projection function into a single laser projection module. The laser source and diffractive optical element work together to provide both projection modes, eliminating the need for separate components and improving system integration while reducing volume and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser projection module is designed with multi-functionality to perform both patterned light field projection and flood light field projection using the same hardware components. The diffractive optical element can be configured to produce different light field patterns, allowing the system to adapt to different three-dimensional sensing requirements without additional components.
2Manufacturing precision
If a diffractive optical element is used to project patterned light field, then the light field pattern can be controlled, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical optical systems with a diffractive optical element that uses diffraction principles to control light field patterns. Instead of using multiple mirrors, lenses, and mechanical adjustment mechanisms, the diffractive optical element achieves precise pattern control through its microstructure design, simplifying the overall optical structure.
3Volume of moving object
If the laser source and diffractive optical element are integrated, then the volume is reduced, but the heat dissipation becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the diffractive optical element within the laser projection module housing, nesting it in close proximity to the laser source. This nested arrangement minimizes the overall module volume while allowing for integrated thermal management design where the housing and internal structures can conduct and dissipate heat efficiently from the laser source.
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 integration of functions into a single module simplifies the structure, reduces costs, and enhances flexibility by allowing seamless switching between different light field projections.
Implementation Method 1
a diffractive optical element projecting a predetermined light field under the irradiation of a laser beam from the laser source
Data Source
AI summary
A laser projection module is disclosed, which comprises a laser source and a diffractive optical element, and has a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, a laser beam from the laser source irradiates the diffractive optical element in a first incident state, and the diffractive optical element projects a first light field comprising a patterned light field. In the second operating mode, the laser beam from the laser source irradiates the diffractive optical element in a second incident state different from the first incident state, and the diffractive optical element projects a second light field comprising a uniform light field. The laser projection module with different operating modes of the present disclosure integrates function of projecting a patterned light field and that of projecting a uniform light field.