Liquid Crystal Aperture Layout for Precise 3D Imaging Distance Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices struggle to capture clear images across the entire screen or create three-dimensional images due to the need for precise distance information between the object and the lens, and existing encoding aperture patterns face challenges in maintaining contrast and preventing light leakage.
Innovation Solution
The use of a liquid crystal aperture with a specific configuration, including a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between substrates, columnar spacers, and light shielding frames, allows for precise pattern formation and high-contrast encoding aperture patterns, enabling efficient distance measurement and three-dimensional image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional aperture system is used, then the device structure is simple, but distance measurement precision and image focus quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a liquid crystal aperture that can dynamically change its transmission pattern based on control signals. The liquid crystal molecules reorient in response to electric fields, allowing the aperture to switch between different encoded patterns (e.g., pinhole, annular, or custom shapes) to optimize distance measurement precision for various imaging conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the aperture's physical parameters by using liquid crystal material properties. By changing the electric field applied to the liquid crystal, the refractive index and molecular orientation change, thereby altering the effective aperture pattern without mechanical movement, achieving precise distance measurement capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a liquid crystal aperture is used, then pattern formation flexibility improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid crystal aperture is divided into multiple independently controllable pixel regions or zones. Each segment can be controlled separately by independent electrode segments, allowing flexible pattern formation through digital control while using standardized liquid crystal display manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal aperture serves multiple functions: it acts as both a traditional aperture for light control and an encoded aperture for distance measurement. The same device can display different patterns (pinhole, annular, custom shapes) by changing control signals, eliminating the need for multiple physical aperture components.
3Measurement precision
If encoded aperture patterns are formed, then distance information accuracy improves, but light transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid crystal aperture uses partial encoding where only certain regions of the aperture are actively patterned while other regions remain open for light transmission. This partial encoding approach provides sufficient distance measurement information while maintaining higher overall light transmission efficiency compared to fully encoded apertures.
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 liquid crystal aperture configuration maintains consistent transmittance and contrast, facilitating accurate distance measurement and three-dimensional image reconstruction, overcoming issues of light leakage and pattern variability.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid crystal layer is sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate... liquid crystal molecules are driven by electric field formed between the upper layer electrode and the common electrode
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device having a lens, an optical sensor and an aperture placed close to the lens, the aperture is constituted by a liquid crystal aperture, which has a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer therebetween; a lower layer electrode, an interlayer insulating layer, and an upper layer electrode are formed in this order on the first substrate; the upper layer electrode having a first electrode, which is formed in an area which includes a center of the pattern area, and a second electrode disposed from the first electrode with a space, a columnar spacer is formed between the first electrode and the second substrate in a plan view.