Optical Detection Apparatus With Folded Light Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical detection devices are often too large for convenient carrying or wearing, and there is a need for miniaturization and innovative designs to enhance user experience and product competitiveness.
Innovation Solution
An optical detection apparatus featuring a substrate with a light source and light sensor, where a unique light-guiding structure deflects detection light from one side to the other, allowing for improved detection accuracy and reduced device volume by adjusting the light path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional optical detection devices are designed with traditional light path structures, then the device can perform basic detection functions, but the device volume becomes too large for convenient carrying or wearing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light-guiding structure with a central axis that is vertical to the substrate surface, arranging the light source and light sensor at opposite sides of this central axis. This three-dimensional spatial arrangement allows the detection light to be deflected at angles, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension to fold the light path and reduce the device's planar footprint while preserving detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The light-guiding structure is positioned above the substrate surface and at least partially above the light source, creating a nested configuration where the light path is folded within a compact volume. The detection light travels from the light source, is deflected by the light-guiding structure, and reaches the light sensor within a small spatial envelope, effectively nesting the optical path within the device body.
2Ease of operation
If the device is miniaturized to improve portability, then the device volume is reduced, but the light path adjustment becomes more difficult and detection accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The light-guiding structure is positioned asymmetrically relative to the light source and light sensor, with the light source and sensor located at opposite sides of the central axis rather than in a symmetric linear arrangement. This asymmetric configuration allows for compact folding of the light path while maintaining sufficient optical path length for accurate detection, resolving the conflict between miniaturization and detection performance.
Solution Approach 2:
By transitioning from a two-dimensional planar light path to a three-dimensional folded light path with vertical components, the patent achieves compact device volume without compromising the optical path length. The light-guiding structure utilizes the vertical dimension to deflect light at angles, effectively packing more optical path into a smaller overall device volume.
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 enhances detection accuracy and miniaturizes the optical detection apparatus, making it more convenient for users and increasing product competitiveness by reducing its volume while maintaining effective light path adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
The light-guiding structure is configured to deflect the detection light from one of the two opposite sides at which the light source is located to the other one of the two opposite sides at which the light sensor is located, such that the detection light reflected by the object moves toward the light sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An optical detection apparatus includes a substrate, a light source, a light sensor, a light-guiding structure. The substrate has a top surface. The light source on the top surface is configured to generate detection light toward an object over the light source. The light sensor is located on the top surface. The light-guiding structure is above the top surface and at least partially above the light source. A central axis of the light-guiding structure is vertical to the top surface, and the light source and the light sensor are at opposite sides relative to the central axis. The light-guiding structure is configured to deflect the detection light from one of the opposite sides at which the light source is located to another one of the opposite side at which the light sensor is located, such that the detection light reflected by the object moves toward the light sensor.