Nanostructured Optical Element for Depth Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image sensors in smartphones, particularly those using time of flight (TOF) and structured light methods, face challenges in accurately obtaining depth information due to limitations in generating and processing structured light patterns, leading to inefficiencies in depth sensing.
Innovation Solution
A nanostructured optical element comprising a light source, a meta-pattern layer with sub-wavelength nano-posts, and a deflecting layer, which converts light into structured light with specific patterns, and a depth sensor system that includes a projector and sensors to analyze this structured light for accurate depth calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional structured light methods are used for depth sensing, then depth information can be obtained, but the accuracy and efficiency of depth sensing is limited due to limitations in generating and processing structured light patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of light by using a meta-pattern layer with sub-wavelength nano-posts to transform conventional light into structured light with specific spatial frequency characteristics. This enables more accurate depth sensing by creating well-defined light patterns that can be precisely measured and analyzed for depth information extraction
Solution Approach 2:
The deflecting layer acts as an intermediary component between the light source and the meta-pattern layer. It redirects light from the light source onto the meta-pattern layer, enabling efficient coupling and transformation of light into structured patterns. This intermediary function optimizes the overall system performance by ensuring proper light direction and distribution
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional light sources and optical elements are used, then the system structure is simple, but the ability to generate precise structured light patterns is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is segmented into distinct functional layers: a deflecting layer with specific optical properties and a meta-pattern layer with sub-wavelength nano-posts arranged in periodic structures. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally, achieving precise structured light generation through the combined effect of multiple specialized components
Solution Approach 2:
The meta-pattern layer employs sub-wavelength nano-posts with locally varied dimensions, materials, and arrangements to create specific optical responses at different spatial locations. This local quality variation enables precise control over the generated structured light patterns, allowing different regions to contribute differently to the overall pattern formation
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 solution enables precise and efficient generation and analysis of structured light patterns, enhancing the accuracy of depth sensing in image sensors, allowing for improved three-dimensional object recognition and positioning.
Implementation Method 1
a meta-pattern layer including a plurality of first nano-posts arranged in a two-dimensional array, wherein each of the plurality of first nano-posts has a sub-wavelength dimension, wherein the plurality of first nano-posts are configured to change the light from the light source into structured light
Implementation Method 2
the meta-pattern layer may have a refractive index that is greater than a refractive index of the supporting layer
Implementation Method 3
a deflecting layer between the light source and the meta-pattern layer, the deflecting layer being configured to change a proceeding direction of the light to make the light from the light source incident onto the meta-pattern layer
Implementation Method 4
The deflecting layer may include a convex lens or a Fresnel lens
Implementation Method 5
a light source in which a plurality of laser sources irradiating light are configured in an array
Implementation Method 6
The laser source may be one of a VCSEL laser, a Fabry-Perot type laser diode, a distributed feedback (DFB) type laser diode
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a nanostructured optical element, a depth sensor, and an electronic device. The nanostructured optical element includes: an array of a plurality of laser sources; a meta-pattern layer including a two-dimensional array of plurality of first nano-posts; and a deflecting layer between the light source and the meta-pattern layer. Each of the first nano-posts has a dimension smaller than a wavelength of light output from the plurality of laser sources. The deflecting layer is configured to direct light from the light source onto the meta-pattern layer.