Optical Sensor Device with Phase Mask Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical sensor devices require separate integration of optical sensors and computational imaging devices, increasing complexity and footprint, making them unsuitable for devices with small form factors like mobile phones.
Innovation Solution
An optical sensor device incorporating a phase mask to distribute light beams in an encoded pattern, an optical filter with angle-dependent channels, and processors to determine distance and select between imaging or spectroscopic processing techniques, allowing a single device to perform both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate integration of optical sensors and computational imaging devices is used, then functional capability is improved, but device complexity and footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical sensors and computational imaging devices into a single integrated optical sensor device, merging previously separate components into one unified system that maintains both imaging and spectroscopic capabilities while reducing overall device complexity and footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated optical sensor device is designed to perform multiple functions including both imaging and spectroscopic measurements using shared components such as the optical filter, sensor array, and processing unit, allowing a single device to replace multiple separate devices
2Measurement precision
If distance-based processing technique selection is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing technique is dynamically selected based on the measured distance to the subject, with the system automatically switching between imaging and spectroscopic processing modes depending on whether the subject is in the near-field or far-field, optimizing measurement precision for each scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from distance measurements (obtained via proximity sensor or angle of incidence analysis) to automatically select the appropriate processing technique, creating a closed-loop system that adapts processing based on real-time conditions
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
Reduces complexity and footprint, enabling the device to provide optical measurements and imaging capabilities while fitting into small form factor devices like mobile phones.
Implementation Method 1
a phase mask configured to distribute a plurality of light beams associated with a subject in an encoded pattern on an input surface of the optical filter
Implementation Method 2
The optical filter may have an angle-dependent wavelength characteristic, wherein the one or more processors may be configured to... identify respective angles of incidence on the optical filter
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical sensor device may include an optical sensor that includes a set of sensor elements; an optical filter that includes one or more channels; a phase mask configured to distribute a plurality of light beams associated with a subject in an encoded pattern on an input surface of the optical filter; and one or more processors. The one or more processors may be configured to obtain, from the optical sensor, sensor data associated with the subject and may determine a distance of the subject from the optical sensor device. The one or more processors may select, based on the distance, a processing technique to process the sensor data, wherein the processing technique is an imaging processing technique or a spectroscopic processing technique. The one or more processors may process, using the selected processing technique, the sensor data to generate output data and may provide the output data.