Optical Switching Assembly for Multi-Mode Radiation Fields

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radiation field generating systems require multiple optical units to produce different kinds of radiation fields, leading to increased costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A single optical unit with an optical assembly that can switch between multiple operation conditions, including pulsed, continuous wave, and frequency conversion modes, using optical switching arrangements based on radiation field properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical units are used to generate different kinds of radiation fields, then the variety of radiation fields is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevariety of radiation fieldsVSAvoidnumber of optical units
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single optical unit capable of operating in multiple operation conditions (continuous wave, pulsed, mode-locked) to generate different kinds of radiation fields. The optical assembly includes switching arrangements that enable one optical unit to perform functions previously requiring multiple separate units, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple operational capabilities into a single optical unit by integrating different operation conditions (CW, pulsed, mode-locked) within one optical assembly. This merging approach consolidates what would traditionally require separate optical units into a unified system, reducing overall system complexity and component count.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical units are used to provide different operation conditions, then the operational flexibility is improved, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The optical unit is designed with universal capability to operate in multiple operation conditions including continuous wave, pulsed, and mode-locked modes. This multi-functionality is achieved through optical switching arrangements that allow a single unit to replace multiple specialized units, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while preserving operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If optical switching arrangement is added to enable switching between operation conditions, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching capabilityVSAvoidoptical assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces optical switching arrangements as intermediary components within the optical assembly to enable switching between different operation conditions. These switching mechanisms act as mediators that control the operational mode without fundamentally complicating the core optical unit, providing a structured way to manage versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12537360B2Radiation field generating system
Publication Date: 2026.01.27 UNIVERSITAT STUTTGART
  • US12537360B2 patent drawing
  • US12537360B2 patent drawing
  • US12537360B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radiation field generating system comprising an optical unit with an optical assembly which defines an optical path is provided, wherein the optical unit is operable in several different operation conditions and the optical assembly comprises at least one optical switching component with which switching between at least two different operation conditions of the several operation conditions can be performed.