Meta-Lens Projector Structure for Compact Structured Light Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The demand for miniaturized laser projectors for augmented, virtual, and mixed reality applications is hindered by the size and complexity of traditional lens modules, which are difficult to manufacture and align accurately.
Innovation Solution
A projector design utilizing a nanostructured meta-lens with a pattern mask and nanostructures to focus structured light, eliminating the need for multiple lenses and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional lens modules including several sheets of optical lenses are used, then desired optical performance is achieved, but device size increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (collimation, focusing, pattern projection) into a single integrated meta-lens structure with nanostructures, eliminating the need for separate lens sheets and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining optical performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses nanostructures with dimensions at the sub-wavelength scale (parameter change to nanometer level) to achieve optical control, fundamentally changing the scale and approach from traditional millimeter-scale lenses to enable miniaturization
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional lens modules are used, then optical performance is maintained, but assembly and alignment become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple optical functions into a single monolithic meta-lens component, eliminating the need for assembling and aligning multiple separate lens sheets, thereby dramatically simplifying manufacturing and assembly processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses nanostructured elements arranged in specific patterns on the substrate surface to achieve different optical functions in different regions, enabling complex optical behavior in a planar, easily manufacturable structure
3Volume of moving object
If miniaturization is pursued, then device size decreases, but traditional lens modules become obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from millimeter-scale traditional lenses to nanometer-scale meta-lens structures, changing the dimensional parameter by three orders of magnitude to enable projector miniaturization while maintaining optical functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the meta-lens as a thin planar substrate with surface nanostructures, replacing bulky three-dimensional lens assemblies with a thin-film structure that enables compact integration
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
Enables the miniaturization of projectors while maintaining image quality and allowing for precise depth information capture, facilitating integration into wearable devices and enhancing depth sensing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to emit laser light
Implementation Method 2
a meta-lens including a plurality of first nanostructures on a second surface of the substrate, the first nanostructures having a shape dimension of a sub-wavelength that is less than a wavelength of light emitted from the light source
Implementation Method 3
The nanostructures may receive the structured light pattern and focus it on a focusing plane spaced apart from the meta-lens
Implementation Method 4
The pattern mask may include a first portion which is a region where laser light is absorbed or reflected
Implementation Method 5
The pattern mask may include a first portion which is a region where laser light is absorbed or reflected
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are projectors, each including a light source configured to emit laser light, a substrate spaced apart from the light source by a distance, a pattern mask including a pattern on a first surface of the substrate, the first surface facing the light source, and a meta-lens including a plurality of first nanostructures on a second surface of the substrate, the second surface facing the first surface, the nanostructures having a shape dimension of a sub-wavelength that is less than a wavelength of light emitted from the light source.