Undivided Optical Enclosure Using Stacked Frames for Compact Laser Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing enclosures for laser apparatus are limited in compactness due to fixed compartment layouts, which restrict further size reduction and portability of optical systems.

Innovation Solution

A compact enclosure design using a base-member and stacked open frame-members to create an undivided internal volume, allowing for flexible mounting of optical components, such as lenses and semiconductor lasers, within a rigid housing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If fixed compartment layouts are used in enclosures, then structural stability and component organization are improved, but device volume and footprint area increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The enclosure is divided into multiple detachable frame members that can be stacked in different configurations. This segmentation allows the enclosure to be assembled in various layouts (vertical stacking, horizontal arrangement, L-shape, U-shape) to optimize space utilization while maintaining structural stability through standardized connection interfaces between frame members.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The enclosure transitions from a fixed compartment layout to a dynamic, reconfigurable structure. Frame members can be detached, repositioned, and reassembled in different configurations to adapt to various component arrangements and space constraints, enabling the same enclosure to serve multiple packaging needs while minimizing volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If fixed compartment layouts are used in enclosures, then component organization is improved, but ease of manufacture and adaptability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent organizationVSAvoidenclosure adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The frame members are designed with universal connection features and standardized mounting interfaces that allow them to serve multiple functions. The same frame members can be used in different configurations (vertical stacking, horizontal arrangement, L-shape, U-shape) and can accommodate various optical components through standardized mounting locations, providing both organization and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional enclosed structures are used, then component protection is improved, but device volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent protectionVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The enclosure uses thin-walled frame members with open structures that provide necessary protection for optical components while minimizing material usage and overall volume. The frame members form protective enclosures around components without requiring solid, bulky compartments, achieving component protection with reduced device volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS8761224B2Compound enclosure for optical apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.06.24 COHERENT INC
  • US8761224B2 patent drawing
  • US8761224B2 patent drawing
  • US8761224B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optically pumped semiconductor laser is assembled in an enclosure comprising a base, a first mounting frame attached to the base, a second mounting frame attached to the first mounting frame and a cover attached to the second mounting frame. The assembly base, frames, and cover forms an undivided enclosure, with the frames contributing to walls of the enclosure. Components of the laser are assembled sequentially on the base and the frames. The frames are irregular in height to permit flexibility in the mounting-height of components. This reduces the extent to which compactness of the enclosure is limited by any one component.