LED Light Module Time-Shifted Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light modules for detecting optical signals require additional detectors, increasing size, cost, and complexity, and suffer from misaligned optical viewing directions, especially when dealing with close objects.
Innovation Solution
A light module with at least two LEDs operated with time-shifted on/off times, where one LED is always in the off state to detect optical signals, eliminating the need for separate detectors by utilizing LEDs as dual-function light sources and photodetectors, and employing pulse width modulation to enable continuous signal detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional detectors are used to detect optical signals, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling LEDs to perform both light emission and optical signal detection functions. The same LED components that emit light during their on-time can detect optical signals during their off-time, eliminating the need for separate detector components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of light sources and detectors into a single component system. By using the same LEDs for both emitting light and detecting optical signals at different time periods, the invention combines what were traditionally separate components into one integrated system, reducing the number of parts and simplifying the device structure.
2Measurement precision
If additional detectors are installed to detect optical signals, then detection function is added, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost by making LEDs serve multiple purposes. Instead of purchasing and installing separate detector components, the same LED components are used for both light emission and optical signal detection, reducing component quantity and associated manufacturing expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED system performs self-detection by using its own off-time periods to detect optical signals. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external detector components, reducing both component costs and assembly complexity in the manufacturing process.
3Device complexity
If LEDs are used for both light emission and signal detection, then component quantity is reduced, but continuous detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating between light emission and signal detection functions in time cycles. LEDs switch between on-time (emission) and off-time (detection) periods, creating a rhythmic pattern that enables continuous monitoring through sequential operations rather than simultaneous continuous detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by preparing the LED for detection during its off-time before the next emission cycle begins. This time-shifted operation allows the system to continuously monitor optical signals by ensuring that detection is always ready or occurring during the intervals between emission bursts.
4Measurement precision
If separate detectors are used, then detection function is provided, but optical viewing direction alignment becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source and detector into the same component (LED), which automatically ensures perfect optical alignment. Since the LED both emits light and detects signals from the same physical location and viewing angle, there are no alignment issues between separate components, especially for close objects where directional matching is critical.
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 approach allows for cost-effective, continuous optical signal detection with reduced design complexity and improved accuracy, enabling self-monitoring and compensation for shadowing effects in illuminated areas without additional detectors.
Implementation Method 1
LEDs, especially some LED types designed for this purpose, can also be used as radiation receivers or photodetectors
Data Source
AI summary
A process for the detection of optical signals with a light module (10) with at least two light sources (20) operated with on/off times with at least one LED (30). The process includes the steps of operating the at least two light sources (20) with time-shifted on/off times and detecting optical signals with the light source (20) that occurs in the off time at the given time.