3D Structured Light Transmission Element for LIDAR Angle Adaptation

The patent transitions from a conventional flat filter surface to a three-dimensional structured surface with pyramidal or conical elements. This dimensional change allows the filter to maintain its spectral filtering function while simultaneously adapting the angle of incidence for improved light transmission efficiency. The 3D structure creates multiple reflection paths that redirect light at favorable angles without compromising the filter's wavelength selection capability.

The patent employs curved surfaces in the form of pyramidal or conical elements rather than flat planar surfaces. These curved geometries enable multiple internal reflections that adapt the angle of incidence dynamically. The curvature allows light rays to undergo successive reflections at varying angles, ultimately redirecting them toward optimal transmission angles while preserving the filter's spectral properties.

The patent implements preliminary angle adaptation through multiple internal reflections within the 3D structured elements before light reaches the filter's active layer. This preliminary action of angle correction ensures that when light finally interacts with the filter's wavelength-selective properties, it does so at optimal angles, thereby maintaining filter precision while having already maximized light efficiency through the reflection process.

The patent divides the filter surface into multiple discrete pyramidal or conical elements, each acting as an independent optical pathway. This segmentation allows different regions to handle light at different incident angles, with each element performing multiple reflections to adapt the angle. The collective effect of all segmented elements maintains both high light efficiency and precise filter properties across the entire surface.

The patent merges the angle adaptation function and the spectral filtering function into a single integrated component. Rather than using separate optical elements for angle control and wavelength filtering, the 3D structured surface combines both functions: the pyramidal/conical geometry provides angle adaptation through multiple reflections, while the same structure houses the wavelength-selective filter layer. This integration eliminates the need for complex multi-component optical systems.

The patent creates a universal optical element that performs multiple functions simultaneously. The 3D structured surface serves as both an angle-adapting interface and a spectral filter, making it applicable to various optical configurations without requiring additional specialized components. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining versatile angle adaptation capabilities.