Oblique Frame Reflector for Optoelectronic Signal Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Optoelectronic apparatuses, such as proximity sensors, face challenges in signal distortion due to undesired radiation, which affects their sensitivity and accuracy.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus features a detector with a frame containing an obliquely extending side face, divided into a reflective sub-region to enhance detected radiation and an absorbing/diffusely guiding sub-region to minimize stray radiation, optimizing radiation reception and reducing signal distortion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional detector housing is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the sensitivity and signal strength are insufficient due to undesired radiation portions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal strengthVSAvoidframe structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first zone with a first refractive index, a second zone with a second refractive index, and a third zone with a third refractive index. Each zone serves a specific optical function to manage radiation paths, separating desired signal radiation from undesired stray radiation through distinct refractive regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different zones of the frame are assigned different refractive indices tailored to their specific functions. The first zone has refractive properties optimized for one aspect of radiation management, while the second and third zones have different refractive indices optimized for their respective roles in guiding and filtering radiation, allowing each local region to perform its specialized function effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If the detector receives all impinging radiation, then the signal strength increases, but signal distortion occurs due to undesired radiation portions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal strengthVSAvoidsignal accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The frame acts as an intermediary optical element between the incoming radiation and the detector. It uses its multi-zone refractive structure to selectively guide desired radiation portions to the detector while deflecting undesired stray radiation, serving as a mediator that filters and directs radiation based on its origin and path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of trying to block undesired radiation directly at the detector, the invention inverts the approach by using the frame's refractive zones to actively guide and shape the desired radiation paths. The frame positively directs useful radiation toward the detector rather than merely attempting to exclude harmful radiation, achieving signal enhancement through constructive path guidance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Measurement precision

If a complex radiation filtering system is added, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal accuracyVSAvoidframe production
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The radiation filtering and guiding functions are merged into the frame structure itself rather than being implemented as separate components. The multi-zone refractive frame combines structural support with optical radiation management, eliminating the need for additional filtering elements and simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining precise radiation control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the detector, acts as an optical element with zone-specific refractive properties to guide radiation, and functions as a radiation filter to exclude undesired portions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies manufacturing.

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

This configuration significantly increases signal strength and reduces stray radiation, enhancing the sensitivity and range of the optoelectronic apparatus while maintaining low power consumption.

Implementation Method 1

The first sub-region takes the form of a reflector for the radiation to be received by the detector. For example, the reflector may be shaped such that radiation impinging in the vertical direction onto the first sub-region is guided onto the detector.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The second sub-region guides radiation impinging in the vertical direction on the second sub-region away from the detector. This means that perpendicularly impinging radiation reflected in directed manner at the second sub-region does not impinge directly, i.e. not without further reflection, on the detector.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9606231B2Optoelectronic apparatus
Publication Date: 2017.03.28 OSRAM OLED
  • US9606231B2 patent drawing
  • US9606231B2 patent drawing
  • US9606231B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to an optoelectronic device (1) comprising a detector for receiving radiation and a frame (3). Said frame is provided with an opening (30), in which the detector is located. The frame extends vertically between a radiation penetration face (300) and a rear face (301). The opening has a lateral face (4) running obliquely to the vertical direction. The oblique lateral face from the top view of the radiation penetration face has a first sub-section (41) and a second sub-section (42). The first sub-section is designed as a reflector for the radiation that is to be received by the detector and the second sub-section guides radiation that is incident on the second sub-section in the vertical direction away from the detector.