Optoelectronic Module Linear Photocurrent Response Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optoelectronic modules for capturing distance data face challenges in maintaining a linear photocurrent response over a wide range of distances, particularly at zero or large distances, due to variations in emitter, detector efficiencies, and object reflectivity, which affects accuracy and precision.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of optoelectronic modules with anamorphic and diffractive lens elements, multiple emitters, and spectral filters to expand or shift the linear photocurrent response zone, allowing for increased accuracy in distance measurements by optimizing illumination patterns and light detection modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optoelectronic modules are used for distance measurement, then the photocurrent response is linear only within a limited distance range, but accuracy and precision deteriorate at zero distance or large distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the illumination function into multiple discrete illumination features (spots) projected onto the object. Each spot can be independently controlled in terms of position, intensity, and size. This segmentation allows different spots to contribute to different distance ranges, with some spots optimized for near-field measurements and others for far-field measurements, thereby extending the overall linear response range of the detector.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating illumination features with different properties at different locations. Each illumination spot can have tailored intensity, size, and position to optimize the photocurrent response for specific distance ranges. This local optimization ensures that the linear response zone is expanded across the entire distance range of interest, rather than being limited to a single uniform illumination pattern.
2Measurement precision
If the linear photocurrent response zone is shifted toward zero distance, then closer distances can be measured with greater accuracy, but large distance measurements may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by sequentially activating different illumination spots or groups of spots. Different spots are activated at different times to measure different distance ranges. For example, some spots are activated for near-field measurements while others are activated for far-field measurements. This temporal multiplexing allows the system to maintain high accuracy across the entire distance range without compromising either close or large distance measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the illumination pattern adjustable and reconfigurable. The system can dynamically switch between different illumination configurations depending on the measurement requirements. This dynamic control allows the linear response zone to be shifted or expanded to cover different distance ranges as needed, providing adaptability for both close and large distance measurements with high precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple illumination features with different intensities are used, then the linear photocurrent response range is expanded, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using a single diffractive optical element to automatically generate multiple discrete illumination features from a single light source. The diffractive structure inherently creates the multi-spot pattern without requiring additional optical components or complex mechanical systems. This self-organizing property of the diffractive element expands the photocurrent response range while minimizing the increase in device complexity, as the complexity is built into the optical element itself rather than requiring separate control systems for each illumination feature.
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 enhances the range and accuracy of linear photocurrent response, enabling precise distance measurements across various distances, including closer and larger ranges, while mitigating the impact of efficiency and reflectivity variations.
Implementation Method 1
Light produced by the emitters and reflected by the object can be detected by the detectors
Implementation Method 2
The response of the detector, i.e., the photocurrent response can be correlated with a distance to the object
Implementation Method 3
the anamorphic lens element tilts an emitter field of view toward the detector
Implementation Method 4
the illumination on the object appears as discrete illumination features
Implementation Method 5
the filter is a spectral filter disposed over the emitter optical assembly as well as over the detector optical assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Various optoelectronic modules are described that include an emitter operable to produce light (e.g., electromagnetic radiation in the visible or non-visible ranges), an emitter optical assembly aligned with the emitter so as to illuminate an object outside the module with light produced by the emitter, a detector operable to detect light at one or more wavelengths produced by the emitter, and a detector optical assembly aligned with the detector so as to direct light reflected by the object toward the detector. In some implementations, the modules include features for expanding or shifting the linear photocurrent response of the detector.