Optical Computing Device Microcell Fixing for Thermal Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical computing devices with planar light diffraction elements face difficulties in maintaining computing functionality due to strain and stress caused by ambient temperature changes, as the entire circumference of the elements is fixed to a tubular holder, leading to thermal expansion and contraction issues.
Innovation Solution
An optical computing device design where each planar light diffraction element is constituted by microcells with independently set thicknesses or refractive indices, and only partially fixed to a substrate, reducing the occurrence of strain and stress from temperature changes, while allowing for efficient computing and protection from external factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If planar light diffraction elements are fixed to a tubular holder over the entire circumference, then the elements are securely held in position, but strain and stress occur in the elements when ambient temperature changes due to thermal expansion and contraction of the holder
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fixing structure into multiple discrete fixing portions rather than continuous circumferential fixation. Each planar light diffraction element is fixed at multiple separated locations on the substrate, creating segments that can independently accommodate thermal expansion and contraction without transmitting strain across the entire element structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies fixing only at specific local positions (fixing portions) on the substrate rather than uniformly across the entire element. This localized fixation approach allows the light diffraction elements to remain stable at fixed points while accommodating dimensional changes in other regions, preventing stress concentration.
2Stability of the object's composition
If planar light diffraction elements are fixed over the entire circumference of the holder, then the elements are firmly secured, but the device becomes sensitive to thermal expansion and contraction causing strain in the elements
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing arrangement is segmented into multiple discrete fixing portions distributed across the substrate surface. This segmentation allows the structure to maintain positional stability at fixed points while creating compliance zones between fixation points that can accommodate thermal dimensional changes without transmitting harmful stresses to the light diffraction elements.
3Reliability
If each planar light diffraction element is fixed to a substrate, then strain from temperature changes is reduced, but the element may be vulnerable to external factors such as shock, vibrations, and foreign matter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective covering structure that envelops the light diffraction elements while allowing the elements to maintain their fixed positions on the substrate. This protective layer acts as a barrier against external harmful factors such as shock, vibrations, and foreign matter, while the flexible or compliant nature of the protection allows thermal expansion and contraction without compromising the computing function.
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 the optical computing device to maintain computing functionality effectively even with ambient temperature changes, while also providing protection against shock, vibrations, and foreign matter, and allows for increased degree of freedom in optical computing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a light diffraction element group including a plurality of planar light diffraction elements, each planar light diffraction element belonging to the light diffraction element group
Data Source
AI summary
An optical computing device includes a substrate and planar light diffraction elements. Each of the planar light diffraction elements is fixed to the substrate and includes microcells that have respective thicknesses or refractive indices set independently.