Optical Scanning Device with Dual Spacing Non-Waveguide Regions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scanning devices are complex and prone to vibration, with existing techniques requiring intricate structures and mechanisms for two-dimensional scanning, such as rotating mirrors and phase shifters, which complicate the device and limit robustness and scanning range.
Innovation Solution
An optical scanning device featuring a pair of opposed mirrors with an optical waveguide layer sandwiched between them, where the refractive index and thickness of the waveguide layer can be adjusted to change the emission direction of light, enabling one-dimensional and two-dimensional scanning with a simpler structure by controlling the phase differences of light beams across multiple waveguide elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional optical scanning devices use rotating mirrors and phase shifters for two-dimensional scanning, then scanning functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases and robustness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the scanning function into two independent parts: one mirror handles one-dimensional scanning while the other mirror handles the second dimension. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex phase shifters and rotating mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full two-dimensional scanning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional single-plane scanning to a three-dimensional configuration by positioning two mirrors in opposed relationships. This spatial arrangement allows each mirror to control a different scanning dimension, achieving two-dimensional scanning through a simpler geometric configuration rather than complex mechanical assemblies
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional optical scanning devices use rotating mirrors and phase shifters, then scanning is achieved, but the device becomes more vibration-prone and less robust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs fixed mirrors with dynamic optical path control through variable refractive index regions, replacing rotating mechanical components. This dynamic optical control without mechanical rotation eliminates vibration issues while preserving scanning capability, significantly improving device reliability and robustness
3Ease of operation
If the optical waveguide region uses a structure with adjustable refractive index and thickness, then emission direction can be changed for scanning, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls emission direction by changing optical parameters (refractive index and thickness) of the waveguide region rather than mechanically adjusting the waveguide structure itself. This parameter-based control achieves scanning functionality while keeping the physical waveguide structure simple and fixed, reducing structural complexity
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 approach allows for efficient one-dimensional and two-dimensional optical scanning with reduced complexity, increased robustness, and the ability to change the emission direction of light without the need for complex mechanisms, enhancing the scanning range and stability of the device.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide layer sandwiched between a pair of mirrors that face each other
Implementation Method 2
the refractive index and thickness of the waveguide layer can be adjusted to change the emission direction of light, enabling one-dimensional and two-dimensional scanning with a simpler structure by controlling the phase differences of light beams
Implementation Method 3
The first mirror has a higher light transmittance than the second mirror and allows part of the light propagating through the optical waveguide layer to be emitted
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scanning device includes: a first mirror; a second mirror opposed to the first mirror; two non-waveguide regions sandwiched between the first mirror and the second mirror; an optical waveguide region disposed between the two non-waveguide regions; and two intermediate regions. The average refractive index of the optical waveguide region is higher than the average refractive index of each intermediate region. The average refractive index of each intermediate region is higher than the average refractive index of each non-waveguide region. The first mirror allows part of light propagating through the optical waveguide region to be emitted as emission light in a third direction. By changing the refractive index and/or thickness of the optical waveguide region, the third direction, which is the emission direction of the emission light, is changed.