Meniscus Lens With Integrated Diffraction Grating for Spectrometer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical spectrometers face challenges in efficiently measuring the wavelengths and relative intensities of light due to limitations in lens design and light path optimization.
Innovation Solution
The proposed optical spectrometer incorporates a meniscus lens with first and second transmissive regions and a reflective region that includes a diffraction grating and a reflector, along with a curved mirror and a light detector, to enhance light path efficiency and spectral analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional lens design is used in spectrometers, then the device structure is simple, but the field curvature is not corrected and spectral resolution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lens is divided into three distinct functional zones: a first transmissive zone for light entry, a central reflective zone with diffraction grating and reflector, and a second transmissive zone for light exit. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function, correcting field curvature while maintaining spectral resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective zone merges multiple optical functions (reflection and diffraction) into a single integrated region within the lens, eliminating the need for separate reflective components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining spectral resolution.
2Measurement precision
If the center of curvature of optical components is not aligned, then the device structure is flexible, but optical performance and light path efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lens and curved mirror are designed with matching radii of curvature, creating an equipotential optical system where the center of curvature is shared by both components. This eliminates spherical aberration and optimizes light path efficiency without requiring complex alignment mechanisms.
3Productivity
If a multi-zone lens with reflective region is used, then light path efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process utilizes parameter changes by forming the reflective zone through controlled modification of the lens material properties in the central region, transitioning from transmissive to reflective behavior through techniques such as deposition or etching, thereby achieving multi-functional zones in a streamlined manufacturing sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The single lens structure performs multiple functions: refraction in transmissive zones, reflection in the reflective zone, and diffraction through the integrated grating. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed while maintaining high light path efficiency.
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 configuration improves the optical performance by correcting field curvature and maintaining the center of curvature of optical components, resulting in enhanced spectral resolution and efficiency in light detection.
Implementation Method 1
the light is diffracted and reflected by the reflective region of the meniscus lens
Implementation Method 2
the light is reflected by a first portion of the curved mirror towards the reflective region of the meniscus lens
Implementation Method 3
the light passes through the first transmissive region of the meniscus lens
Data Source
AI summary
An optical spectrometer includes a housing having a light-entrance slit defined therein; a meniscus lens having first and second transmissive regions and a reflective region, the reflective region including a reflector and a diffraction grating; a curved mirror, and a light detector. The meniscus lens is between the light-entrance slit and the curved mirror.