Optical Sensor Holding Element for Precision Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical sensor devices for motor vehicles, particularly 3D cameras using the time-of-flight method, face challenges in manufacturing cost and precision alignment of optics, making them difficult and expensive to produce in large numbers for automotive applications.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device design featuring a holding element with through-openings for precise alignment and attachment of optics, combined with a pulsed light source and light-sensitive detection chip, allows for easy and precise adjustment and alignment of the optics, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional 3D camera systems with separate transmitting and receiving optics are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to demanding alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transmitting optic and receiving optic into a single integrated holding element structure. The holding element features a transmitting aperture and receiving aperture positioned at predetermined locations that maintain fixed geometric relationships, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures and complex alignment procedures while preserving the functional separation of transmitting and receiving optical paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element serves as an intermediary component that pre-aligns both optics relative to each other before mounting to the circuit board. By incorporating predetermined alignment features and aperture positions within the holding element itself, the system mediates the alignment requirement, reducing the complexity from multi-component alignment to single-component integration.
2Measurement precision
If traditional 3D camera systems with separate optics mounting are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to difficult and expensive production processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the holding element for both optics into a single integrated component with predetermined aperture positions. This consolidation reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, stored, and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and simplifying production processes while maintaining the precise geometric relationships required for accurate spatial detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element is designed with predetermined alignment features and aperture positions that pre-establish the correct geometric relationships between transmitting and receiving optics. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex post-assembly alignment procedures, making the manufacturing process more straightforward and cost-effective.
3Measurement precision
If pulsed light sources with synchronized detection are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to synchronization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit performs multiple functions: it generates synchronization signals for the pulsed light source, controls the integration windows of the detection chip, and processes the detected signals. By consolidating these functions into a single control circuit, the patent reduces system complexity while maintaining the precise synchronization required for accurate time-of-flight measurements.
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 design enables the production of cost-effective, easily adjustable 3D camera systems for motor vehicles, simplifying the alignment of optics and reducing manufacturing complexity, while maintaining precise alignment and performance.
Implementation Method 1
the invention relates to a sensor device for the optical detection of movement gestures performed by people to signal a request for operation
Implementation Method 2
the travel time of the light reflected by an object within that region is measured using a surface sensor
Implementation Method 3
a light-sensitive detection chip with a light-sensitive surface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor device (2) for optically sensing objects and the spatial movements thereof, wherein the sensor device is easily adjustable and cost-effective. For this purpose, the sensor device comprises an SD camera having a printed circuit board (20), a pulsed light source (22), a driver circuit (23), a control circuit (24) and a sensitive sensing chip (25) having a light-sensitive surface (26). Receiving optics (32a, 32b) are assigned to the sensitive surface (26) of the sensing chip (25) and transmitting optics (31a, 31b) are assigned to the pulsed light source. The sensor device also comprises a holding element (30) having a transmitting passage opening (33) and a receiving passage opening (34), wherein the transmitting passage opening has a transmitting optics receptacle (33a, 33b), and the receiving passage opening has a receiving optics receptacle (34a, 34b), and wherein the holding element has at least one fastening means (40, 41) which is used to fix and align the holding element (30) on the printed circuit board (20) in a rotationally fixed manner, specifically such that a predefined distance d with respect to the printed circuit board is complied with, and the receiving passage opening is aligned with the sensitive surface of the sensing chip.