Metalens Array Point Cloud Projection System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional point cloud projection systems are hindered by complex structures, large size, and high costs due to the use of multiple aspheric lenses, which also result in stray interference and decreased signal-to-noise ratios.
Innovation Solution
A point cloud projection system is designed with a laser source array and a metalens array aligned on the same optical axis, featuring a metalens array with nanostructures that provide a positive focal length, reducing the number of lenses and eliminating the need for a DOE, thus simplifying the structure and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple conventional optical lenses and DOE are used to form point cloud, then the point cloud can be projected, but the system structure becomes complex and large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple conventional optical lenses into a single metalens array that integrates the functions of collimation and point cloud formation. The metalens array merges the roles of traditional lens groups and DOE into one compact component, reducing system complexity while maintaining point cloud projection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical optical lenses with a metalens array that uses metasurface technology. This substitution eliminates the need for multiple bulky glass lenses and complex mechanical mounting structures, achieving a more compact and simpler system architecture.
2Device complexity
If multiple aspheric lenses are used to collimate laser light, then the light can be properly directed, but the system size increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the collimation function and point cloud formation function into a single metalens array, eliminating the need for separate aspheric lenses. This integration reduces the number of optical components while maintaining proper light directionality and collimation performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameter implementation from traditional glass lens curvature (aspheric surfaces) to metasurface phase modulation. This parameter change allows for compact design and reduced component count while achieving the same collimation effect through controlled phase shifts in the metalens structure.
3Device complexity
If conventional lens group is used to collimate light, then the light can be parallelized, but the system becomes expensive due to aspheric lenses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive glass aspheric lenses with a metalens array fabricated using metasurface technology. This substitution significantly reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for precision glass molding and complex optical assembly, while achieving the same collimation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a metalens array that can be manufactured at lower cost compared to traditional aspheric lenses. The metalens structure allows for more economical fabrication processes and reduces the need for expensive optical materials, making the system more cost-effective while maintaining functionality.
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 minimizes the size and cost of the system, enhances light energy utilization, and improves the signal-to-noise ratio of the point cloud, enabling longer propagation distances without high-order diffraction and stray interference.
Implementation Method 1
a metalens array with nanostructures that provide a positive focal length
Implementation Method 2
the light passes through the DOE (Diffraction Optical Element), so as to form the point cloud
Data Source
AI summary
A point cloud projection system provided by the present disclosure includes: a laser source array and a metalens array. The laser source array and the metalens array are set on the same optical axis. The laser source array is located at the focal plane in the object space of the metalens array. The metalens array have a positive focal length in a working waveband of the laser source array.