Optical Module with Segmented Surfaces for Large Field of View Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional projectors face challenges in projecting large field of view patterns due to complex manufacturing processes and eye safety issues caused by optical elements with defective structures and zero-order light emission.
Innovation Solution
An optical module with a first surface for deflecting light and a second surface for projecting a predetermined pattern, allowing for a large projected field of view and reduced eye safety risks, utilizing microstructures and a simplified manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If optical elements have larger slopes in structure shapes to project patterns with large field of view, then the projected field of view is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is divided into multiple surfaces: a first surface with a first slope for deflecting light, and a second surface with a second slope for projecting the pattern. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized independently for its specific function, achieving large field of view while simplifying manufacturing compared to a single complex surface structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different surfaces of the optical element are assigned different slopes and functions. The first surface has a first slope optimized for light deflection, while the second surface has a second slope optimized for pattern projection. This local differentiation of properties enables the system to achieve large field of view without requiring all surfaces to have excessively large slopes, thereby easing manufacturing.
2Area of stationary object
If optical elements have larger slopes in structure shapes to project patterns with large field of view, then the projected field of view is improved, but eye safety issues worsen due to defective structures and zero order light
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the optical element into multiple surfaces with distinct functions, the design reduces the likelihood of defective structures causing eye safety issues. The first surface handles light deflection while the second surface handles pattern projection, allowing for better control and reduction of harmful zero-order light emission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses eye safety issues by incorporating specific structural features that convert potentially harmful zero-order light into beneficial components of the projected pattern. The multi-surface structure with optimized slopes ensures that light paths are controlled to eliminate harmful emissions while maintaining large field of view capability.
3Device complexity
If a single optical structure is used to deflect light and project patterns, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision and functionality are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is segmented into multiple surfaces with distinct functions and optimized slopes. This segmentation allows each surface to be manufactured with high precision for its specific purpose, while the overall device complexity remains manageable due to the modular nature of the multi-surface structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each surface of the optical element is designed with local optimization in mind, having specific slope angles and structural properties tailored to its function. This approach maintains manufacturing precision for each component while the overall structure remains integrated, balancing device complexity with manufacturing feasibility.
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 optical module achieves a large projected field of view while minimizing eye safety hazards and simplifying manufacturing, enabling cost-effective production of optical modules with enhanced performance.
Implementation Method 1
The first surface is configured to deflect the light
Implementation Method 2
The second surface has a plurality of microstructures and is configured to project a predetermined pattern when the light passing through the second surface
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module and a related projector are disclosed. The optical module includes a light source and an optical structure. The light source emitting a light, and the optical structure is disposed on the light source for receiving the light. The optical structure includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is configured to deflect the light. The second surface has a plurality of microstructures and is configured to project a predetermined pattern when the light passing through the second surface, and the second surface corresponds to the first surface.