Off-Axis Aimer Lens Layout to Reduce Imager Reflections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aimer arrangements in imaging devices suffer from reflections that negatively impact imager operation, intensity drop-off at distance, and large form factor limitations, making them unsuitable for small form factor implementations.
Innovation Solution
An off-axis aimer arrangement is employed, where the aimer light source is aligned differently from other components, using optical elements to redirect light to align with the imager's field of view, reducing reflections and maintaining intensity across various distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional on-axis aimer arrangement is used, then the aimer light source is aligned with the imager, but reflections occur that negatively impact imager operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from a conventional on-axis aimer arrangement to an off-axis arrangement. The aimer light source is positioned at an angle relative to the imager optical axis, breaking the symmetric alignment that causes reflections. This asymmetric positioning allows the aimer light to project onto the target without reflecting directly into the imager, thereby eliminating the harmful reflection effect while maintaining aiming functionality.
2Device complexity
If conventional aimer arrangement is used, then simple alignment is achieved, but intensity drop-off occurs at distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dimensionality change by introducing an angular dimension to the light projection. Instead of projecting light directly along the optical axis (one-dimensional alignment), the off-axis aimer projects light at an angle, creating a geometric path that maintains intensity over distance. The angled projection geometry allows the light to travel a more efficient path to the target, reducing intensity drop-off while the optical elements maintain proper alignment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-projector imaging apparatus is used, then imaging functionality is achieved, but large form factor is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the aimer light source and optical elements with the existing illuminator and imager system into a single unified apparatus. The off-axis aimer shares the same housing and optical path infrastructure as the illuminator, eliminating the need for separate projector housings and mounting structures. This consolidation achieves multi-functionality (imaging plus aiming) while significantly reducing the overall device form factor compared to conventional multi-projector apparatus.
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 arrangement minimizes reflections on imager components, maintains illumination intensity at greater distances, and allows for a smaller device form factor, enhancing performance and usability in compact devices.
Implementation Method 1
using optical elements to redirect light to align with the imager's field of view
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for improved projecting of aimer illumination utilizing an off-axis aimer alignment. Some embodiments reduce the negative impact of light reflectivity on components of an apparatus from an aimer illumination while simultaneously enhancing the intensity level of the aimer illumination at greater ranges from a target object. One example embodiment includes an integrated molded off-axis aimer lens including a light focusing lens having an input face and an output face, an axis redirecting lens having an angled front surface, where the axis redirecting lens is oriented along a first axis, where the axis redirecting lens is aligned with the output face of the light focusing lens, and an aimer light source aligned with the input face of the light focusing lens, where the aimer light source is oriented along a second axis that differs from the first axis.