Micro-optics System Using Diffraction Method for Non-rotational Scanning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional 3D scanning devices require rotation, leading to optical alignment variations, measurement errors, and durability issues, while also having complex structures and high manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

A micro-optics system using a diffraction method with a plurality of micro-optical elements having different inclination patterns, allowing for non-rotational scanning by refracting light rays at varying angles without the need for rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional 3D scanning device rotates a mirror to scan and detect objects, then scanning coverage is achieved, but optical alignment variation occurs leading to measurement errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidscanning operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical rotation system with a diffraction-based optical system. Instead of physically rotating a mirror to change scanning angles, the invention uses a diffraction element with multiple inclined surfaces that refract light at different angles according to Snell's law. This substitution of mechanical motion with optical physics eliminates the root cause of measurement errors while maintaining full scanning capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the optical parameters by introducing a diffraction element with specifically designed inclination angles. Each inclined surface has a predetermined angle that determines the refraction angle of outgoing light rays. By varying the inclination parameters of different surfaces, the system achieves multiple scanning angles without mechanical movement, thereby maintaining measurement precision across the entire scanning range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If a conventional 3D scanning device rotates components for scanning, then object detection is enabled, but durability issues occur due to rotation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice durabilityVSAvoidscanning capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates mechanical rotation components entirely by using a stationary diffraction element. The scanning function is achieved through optical refraction rather than mechanical movement, which removes wear and tear associated with rotating parts. This significantly improves device durability and reliability while maintaining the ability to scan objects across a wide field of view through the fixed diffraction structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If a conventional 3D scanning device uses rotation for scanning, then scanning function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces complex mechanical rotation assemblies with a single integrated diffraction element. This element can be manufactured as one piece using precision molding or machining techniques, eliminating the need for multiple moving parts, bearings, motors, and control systems. The simplified structure dramatically reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving the same scanning function through optical design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The diffraction element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a beam splitter, an angular deflector, and a scanning mechanism all in one component. By integrating these functions into a single optical element with multiple inclined surfaces, the invention eliminates the need for separate mechanical components, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining full scanning capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-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

Enables scanning and detection of objects within a certain range without rotating the micro-optics system, reducing measurement errors and manufacturing costs while improving durability.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of light rays incident from a light source are increasingly refracted by 1 degree in an outward direction from a center of the plurality of micro-optical elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

Micro-optics system using diffraction method

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Data Source

PatentUS12282119B2Micro-optics system using diffraction method
Publication Date: 2025.04.22 OPTOELEC CO LTD
  • US12282119B2 patent drawing
  • US12282119B2 patent drawing
  • US12282119B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A micro-optics system using the diffraction method includes a plurality of micro-optical elements having different inclination patterns. The different inclination patterns are implemented such that a plurality of light rays incident from a light source are increasingly refracted by 1 degree in an outward direction from a center of the plurality of micro-optical elements, and the different inclination patterns include a series of steps.