Optoelectronic Modules for Reflectivity-Independent Proximity Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optoelectronic modules struggle to accurately measure proximity and intensity-dependent characteristics of objects independent of surface reflectivity and module displacement, particularly in dynamic conditions.
Innovation Solution
The optoelectronic module employs an illumination module with a light-emitting component and detection module with an array of light-sensitive components, aligned to collect reflections and convert them into signals associated with specific coordinate positions, using intensity modulation to adjust emission intensity based on signal magnitude, and normalization to compensate for distance changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optoelectronic modules use light-emitting components and photodiodes to collect reflected light intensity, then proximity measurement capability is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to object surface reflectivity variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple light wavelengths (e.g., 850nm and 940nm) to illuminate the object and measures reflectivity at each wavelength. By changing the wavelength parameter and comparing the differential reflectivity responses, the system can distinguish between surface reflectivity variations and actual distance changes, thereby compensating for the harmful effect of surface reflectivity on measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If optoelectronic modules collect intensity values at different time instances, then blood volume characteristics can be determined, but measurement precision deteriorates due to module displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a distance measurement mechanism (such as time-of-flight or triangulation sensors) as an intermediary to continuously monitor the module's distance from the object. This distance information serves as a mediator to correct the intensity values collected by photodiodes, allowing the system to separate distance-induced intensity changes from blood volume-induced intensity changes, thereby maintaining measurement precision despite module displacement.
3Productivity
If optoelectronic modules use multiple light-sensitive components in an array, then data collection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light-sensitive detection function into multiple discrete photodiodes arranged in an array, with each photodiode corresponding to a specific angular range or spatial position. This segmentation allows simultaneous collection of intensity data from multiple directions, enabling both proximity measurement and blood volume analysis through differential processing, thereby improving productivity while managing complexity through modular design.
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
Enables accurate measurement of proximity and intensity-dependent characteristics, such as peripheral blood circulation, independent of object surface reflectivity and module displacement, improving data collection efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The light-emitting component is operable to generate an emission incident on the illumination optical assembly
Implementation Method 2
The illumination module is operable to direct the illumination to an object disposed at a distance from the optoelectronic module
Implementation Method 3
The detection optical assembly is characterized by a focal length and an optical axis. The detection optical assembly is aligned to the array of light-sensitive components such that the focal length is incident on the plane
Implementation Method 4
The detection module is operable to convert the collected reflection into a signal by at least one of the light-sensitive components within the array of light-sensitive components
Implementation Method 5
The optoelectronic module employs illumination module with a light-emitting component and detection module with an array of light-sensitive components, aligned to collect reflections and convert them into signals associated with specific coordinate positions, using intensity modulation to adjust emission intensity based on signal magnitude
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Optoelectronic modules operable to measure proximity independent of object surface reflectivity and, in some implementations, operable to measure characteristics (such as surface reflectivity or absorptivity) of stationary or moving objects are disclosed. The optoelectronic modules are operable to determine, for example, pulse rate, peripheral blood circulation, and/or blood oxygen levels of moving objects, such as the appendage of a user, in some instances. The optoelectronic modules can be used to measure peripheral blood circulation, for example, when a user of the optoelectronic module is engaged in physical activity, such as walking, running or cycling.