Optical Sensor Metal Slats for Compact Motion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical motion and gesture recognition sensors require a large footprint due to the spatial distances needed between light sources and detectors, limiting their applicability and accuracy in detecting movements in multiple directions.
Innovation Solution
The use of metal slats formed during BEOL metallization process steps, which can be oriented in parallel, orthogonal, or crisscross configurations above photodetector regions, allowing for efficient detection of motion in various directions with reduced spatial requirements, and the incorporation of filters to enhance light detection specificity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple spatially dispersed light sources are used to detect motion in multiple directions, then measurement precision is improved, but area of stationary object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of light sources to a three-dimensional configuration where light sources are positioned at different heights above the photodetector array. This vertical dimension allows multiple light sources to be spatially dispersed without increasing the horizontal footprint, enabling motion detection in multiple directions while maintaining a compact sensor area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds multiple light sources within a vertical stack above the photodetector region, similar to nested dolls. Each light source is positioned at a different height, creating a compact vertical arrangement that provides sufficient angular resolution without requiring large horizontal spacing between sources and detectors.
2Measurement precision
If light sources are spaced several tens of millimeters away from the photodetector to provide sufficient angular resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but length of stationary object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction by moving the spatial dispersion of light sources from the horizontal plane to the vertical dimension. Light sources are positioned at different heights above the photodetector, which provides the necessary angular resolution for motion detection without requiring large horizontal distances between sources and detectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structural arrangement combining multiple light sources at different vertical positions with a photodetector array. This composite configuration achieves the required angular resolution through vertical spatial distribution rather than horizontal spacing, reducing the overall length of the sensor assembly.
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 configuration enables compact and effective detection of motion and gestures in multiple directions, improving the sensors' ability to distinguish between different movements and positions, thereby enhancing their usability in various applications such as controlling electronic devices and aligning industrial equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the detected reflected light signals can be associated with the correct light source and its known location relative to the photodetector
Implementation Method 2
optical sensors rely on multiple spatially dispersed light sources, multiple spatially dispersed light detectors
Data Source
AI summary
An optical sensor, according to an embodiment of the present invention, includes a photodetector region and a plurality of slats over the photodetector region. In an embodiment, the slats are made of an opaque polymer material, such as an opaque photoresist. In an embodiment, the slats are angled relative to a surface of the photodetector region.