Optical Component With Convex Mirror For Compact Beam Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical components and modules require long optical path lengths to achieve expanded beam diameters, leading to increased component and module sizes, which hinders high-density mounting.
Innovation Solution
The optical component features a convex mirror on the third surface that expands the beam diameter, and a lens on the second surface that emits the reflected light as collimated light, thereby eliminating the need for a long optical path length and enabling high-density mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a long optical path length is used to expand beam diameter, then the beam diameter is expanded, but the component size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a linear optical path arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by introducing a convex mirror at an angle. This allows the beam expansion to occur in multiple dimensions simultaneously, achieving the required beam diameter expansion within a compact optical path length through spatial reconfiguration rather than linear extension.
Solution Approach 2:
The convex mirror introduces curved surfaces into the optical system, utilizing spherical geometry to expand the beam diameter. The curvature of the convex mirror enables beam expansion through reflection geometry rather than requiring a long linear path, effectively using surface shape to achieve the desired optical function in a compact configuration.
2Length of stationary object
If the optical path length is shortened, then the component size decreases, but the beam diameter expansion is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging the convex mirror at a specific angle and using three-dimensional space, the system achieves beam expansion without requiring a long linear optical path. The angular configuration of the convex mirror allows the beam to expand in the transverse direction while maintaining a compact axial length, effectively utilizing spatial dimensions to decouple beam expansion from path length.
3Area of moving object
If existing optical components are used for beam expansion, then the beam diameter is expanded, but the mounting density is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the beam expansion function and the optical coupling function into a single integrated component structure. The convex mirror and lens are positioned to work together within one compact unit, eliminating the need for separate beam expansion components and enabling higher mounting density while maintaining effective beam expansion and light emission.
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 allows for the shortening of optical path lengths, enabling the optical components to be mounted at higher densities while maintaining effective light emission as collimated light.
Implementation Method 1
The third surface includes a convex mirror that reflects light incident on the first surface toward the second surface
Implementation Method 2
The second surface includes a lens that emits the light, which is reflected from the convex mirror, as collimated light
Data Source
AI summary
An optical component according to one embodiment includes a first surface; a second surface intersecting the first surface; and a third surface intersecting the first surface and the second surface in a cross section orthogonal to both the first surface and the second surface. The third surface includes the convex mirror that reflects light incident on the first surface toward the second surface. The second surface includes a lens that emits the light, which is reflected from the convex mirror, as collimated light.