Microlens Array Homogenizes Light to Eliminate Dark Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical systems face challenges such as large volume and cost due to the need for large light-emitting area sources, dark zones in detection areas due to discrete light emission, and issues with stray light and signal crosstalk in progressive scanning methods. Additionally, existing light homogenization devices either weaken light signals or introduce stray light, limiting the irradiation range and detection efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The proposed optical system employs a microlens array element to homogenize and diffuse light beams emitted by a light source, ensuring no dark zones on the detection array and efficient matching between the receiving and emitting modules. This system uses specific parameters to eliminate diffraction, compensate for dark zones, and achieve dark zone-free illumination, thereby improving detection efficiency and reducing system size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a large light-emitting area source is used, then the illumination coverage is improved, but the device volume and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light beam is segmented into multiple sub-beams by the microlens array, where each microlens generates a focused spot. These segmented beams are then diffused to cover the detection area, achieving large illumination coverage without requiring a large light-emitting area source
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the light propagation from a single-dimensional approach to a two-dimensional diffusion pattern. By using microlenses to create multiple focal points arranged in an array, the system achieves area coverage through spatial distribution in multiple dimensions rather than relying on a large single light source
2Area of stationary object
If a large light-emitting area source is used, then the illumination coverage is improved, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive large-area light sources with inexpensive microlens array elements. The microlenses are small, mass-producible optical components that can be manufactured at low cost, yet collectively achieve the required illumination coverage when arranged in an array configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes a mechanical/optical approach (large physical light source) with an optical processing approach (microlens array). Instead of increasing the light source size, the system uses optical elements to manipulate and distribute light from a compact source, reducing both volume and cost
3Device complexity
If discrete light emission is used, then the light source structure is simplified, but dark zones appear in detection areas
Solution Approach 1:
The microlens array pre-processes the light beam by creating multiple focused spots before the light reaches the detection area. This preliminary action of segmenting and positioning light ensures that the subsequent diffusion process covers the entire detection area uniformly, eliminating dark zones while maintaining a simple light source structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial distribution parameters of the light beam by using microlenses to create an array of focal points. This parameter transformation converts a single light source into multiple spatially distributed beams, ensuring complete detection area coverage without complicating the light source itself
4Stability of the object's composition
If conventional light homogenization devices are used, then light homogeneity is improved, but light signal strength is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using conventional homogenization devices that diffuse light uniformly (which weakens the signal), the patent segments the light into multiple focused beams using microlenses. Each microlens maintains beam intensity while creating a structured pattern that achieves homogeneity through the array configuration rather than uniform diffusion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by maintaining high intensity at each microlens focal point while achieving overall homogeneity through the collective arrangement. Each local region (individual microlens output) has concentrated light, but the global distribution achieves uniformity, preserving signal strength while homogenizing the beam
5Device complexity
If progressive scanning methods are used, then the detection process is simplified, but stray light and signal crosstalk occur
Solution Approach 1:
The microlens array segments the light beam into spatially separated sub-beams, each corresponding to specific detection elements. This segmentation creates distinct optical paths that reduce stray light interference and signal crosstalk between adjacent detection channels, while the overall detection process remains simplified
Solution Approach 2:
The microlens array acts as an intermediary optical element between the light source and detection array. It organizes and directs light beams to specific detection elements, serving as a mediator that prevents direct interference between light paths and reduces stray light and crosstalk effects
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 optical system achieves efficient light homogenization and diffusion, eliminating dark zones and improving detection efficiency. It reduces the size and cost of the optical system while maintaining high detection accuracy and sensitivity, thereby enhancing the irradiation range and matching efficiency between the receiving and emitting modules.
Implementation Method 1
the microlens array element homogenizing and diffusing a light beam in a first direction, a second direction, or a first direction and a second direction, to form a homogeneous light beam
Implementation Method 2
This system uses specific parameters to eliminate diffraction, compensate for dark zones, and achieve dark zone-free illumination
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device for homogenizing and diffusing light, an emitting terminal and optical system are provided. An implementation of the optical device for homogenizing and diffusing light includes: a microlens array element, the microlens array element homogenizing and diffusing a light beam in a first direction, a second direction, or a first direction and a second direction, to form a homogeneous light beam, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other.