Light Source Device With Segmented Reflector For Laser Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source devices equipped with laser diodes face challenges in accurately monitoring laser beam outputs due to intermixing of light beams from multiple diodes, leading to reduced monitoring accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A light source device design incorporating a reflector with light shielding parts and a photodetector configuration that separates and monitors the outputs of multiple laser diodes, using a reflector with oblique reflecting faces and exit faces, and light shielding bodies to prevent intermixing of light beams, allowing for precise detection of each diode's output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple laser diodes are used in a light source device, then the light output capability is improved, but the monitoring accuracy of individual laser beam outputs deteriorates due to intermixing of light beams
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is divided into multiple independent reflecting regions, each corresponding to a specific laser diode. Each reflecting region has dedicated light shielding structures that segment the optical paths, preventing light from one laser diode from interfering with the detection of another laser diode's output. This segmentation enables independent monitoring of each laser diode while maintaining multi-diode light output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Light shielding bodies are introduced as intermediary elements between the laser diodes and photodetectors. These shielding structures act as mediators that selectively block stray light and reflected light from unwanted sources, allowing the photodetector to receive only the intended light signal from a specific laser diode through the reflector, thereby improving monitoring accuracy.
2Device complexity
If a simple reflector structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to prevent light beam intermixing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is designed with non-uniform local properties: different regions of the reflector have different reflective characteristics and are paired with corresponding light shielding structures. Each local region is optimized to handle light from a specific laser diode, with shielding elements positioned to block only the harmful stray light while preserving the useful reflected light path. This local differentiation prevents light intermixing without requiring complete structural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
Light shielding structures are added in the vertical dimension (thickness direction) of the reflector rather than complicating the horizontal layout. By extending shielding elements through the reflector thickness and positioning them at specific depths, the design effectively separates light paths in three-dimensional space, preventing intermixing while maintaining a relatively simple overall reflector geometry.
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
The solution enables high-accuracy monitoring of laser beam outputs, reducing noise levels and improving detection accuracy, making it suitable for miniaturized applications such as head-mounted displays.
Implementation Method 1
The first reflecting face reflects a portion of light from the first laser diode and transmits a portion of the light from the first laser diode
Implementation Method 2
The photodetector includes a first light receiving element that receives first light exiting the first exit face, and a second light receiving element that receives second light exiting the second exit face
Data Source
AI summary
A light source device includes: first and second laser diodes; a reflector having: first and second reflecting faces configured to reflect a portion of light from the respective first and second laser diodes and to transmit a portion of the light from the respective first and second laser diodes, and first and second exit faces configured to allow the portions of the light transmitted through the respective first and second reflecting faces to exit; and a photodetector including: first and second light receiving element configured to receive light exiting the first and second exit faces, respectively. The reflector is configured such that the light transmitted through the first reflecting face is hindered from exiting the second exit face and the light transmitted through the second reflecting face is hindered from exiting the first exit face.