Modular Laser Module for Precise Optical Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity of laser systems with multiple optical components poses challenges in facilitating optical alignment, leading to inefficiencies in the oscillation and modulation of high-output laser beams.

Innovation Solution

A modularized laser system with a laser module that includes an optical system, mirrors, sensors, and drivers for precise control and alignment, allowing for the modulation of laser beams in terms of pulse width, spectrum, intensity, and polarization direction, and facilitating the connection of multiple laser modules for improved space utilization and maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If multiple optical systems are used to oscillate high output laser beam, then laser output capability is improved, but optical alignment complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser output capabilityVSAvoidoptical alignment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the laser system into multiple independent laser modules, each capable of generating laser beams. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system functionality, reducing the alignment complexity that would arise from a single complex optical system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs universal interfaces and standardized optical paths that allow different laser modules to be interconnected and function together. This multi-functionality enables the system to maintain high output capability while simplifying alignment through standardized connection protocols and interchangeable components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical systems are used to modulate laser beam, then laser modulation capability is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser modulation capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable optical components within each laser module, allowing dynamic modification of beam parameters such as pulse width, spectrum, intensity, and polarization. This dynamic capability provides versatile modulation without requiring fixed complex optical paths for each modulation type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent achieves different modulation capabilities by changing parameters of existing optical components rather than adding separate systems for each modulation type. For example, adjustable mirrors and variable optical attenuators allow the same hardware to provide multiple modulation functions through parameter adjustment, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If traditional laser system design is used, then optical alignment is achieved, but space utilization efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical alignment precisionVSAvoidspace utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a compact modular design where laser modules can be nested or closely integrated within the housing structure. This nesting approach maintains precise optical alignment through rigid mechanical mounting while maximizing space utilization by eliminating unnecessary spacing and allowing vertical or layered arrangements of optical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of optical components and modular stacking to achieve precise alignment without requiring large planar spaces. By transitioning from two-dimensional optical tables to three-dimensional modular integration, the system maintains alignment precision while dramatically improving space utilization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 modular design enhances the efficiency of laser beam oscillation and modulation, improves space utilization, and simplifies maintenance by enabling precise optical alignment and error reduction, while maintaining high output capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a first mirror reflecting the first laser beam to the optical system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a second mirror disposed on the optical path to reflect the second laser beam to an outside of the laser module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

a first sensor disposed adjacent to the first mirror and configured to sense the first laser beam incident to the first mirror

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 4

a first driver connected to the second mirror and configured to rotate the second mirror

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotational motion:

Data Source

PatentUS11515681B2Laser module and laser system including the same
Publication Date: 2022.11.29 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US11515681B2 patent drawing
  • US11515681B2 patent drawing
  • US11515681B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a laser module that receives a first laser beam and outputs a second laser beam different from the first laser beam, the laser module including an optical system configured to modulate the first laser beam into the second laser beam and output the second laser beam, a first mirror disposed on an optical path of the first or second laser beam defined in the laser module, the first mirror reflecting the first laser beam to the optical system, a first sensor disposed adjacent to the first mirror and configured to sense the first laser beam incident to the first mirror, a second mirror disposed on the optical path to reflect the second laser beam to an outside of the laser module, and a first driver connected to the second mirror and configured to rotate the second mirror.