Opto-Electronic Module With Segmented Barrier For Crosstalk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical proximity sensors face challenges in managing internal optical crosstalk and improving signal-to-noise ratio, particularly when mounted behind transparent or semi-transparent covers, where external interference is suppressed but internal interference is harder to manage.
Innovation Solution
The use of a non-transparent polymer material, such as thermally-cured epoxy with carbon black, as a separation member between the light emitter and detector, along with a blocking portion and transparent portions in the optics member, effectively reduces optical crosstalk and enhances the signal-to-noise ratio by minimizing light transmission and absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a transparent or semi-transparent cover is used, then external optical interference is suppressed, but internal optical crosstalk between emitter and detector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical path into separate regions by introducing a barrier component that segments the space between emitter and detector. This barrier creates distinct optical zones, preventing direct light transmission from emitter to detector while allowing reflected light from external objects to reach the detector through designated transparent portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier component acts as an intermediary element between the emitter and detector. It selectively blocks direct light paths (crosstalk) while permitting reflected light to pass through specific transparent regions, thus mediating the optical interaction between components and external environment.
2Volume of moving object
If the light emitter and detector are positioned close together, then the device size is reduced, but optical crosstalk between them increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the proximity problem by introducing a vertical dimension solution - a barrier component positioned between the emitter and detector that extends into the optical path. This allows close horizontal positioning while maintaining optical separation through the vertical barrier structure, effectively using dimensional separation to resolve the contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier component implements local quality by being non-transparent in specific regions (blocking crosstalk) while having transparent portions in other regions (allowing signal detection). This spatially differentiated optical property allows the system to maintain compact size while preventing unwanted light transmission in critical areas.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a non-transparent barrier component is added to block crosstalk, then internal optical interference is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the barrier component with the optics member or housing structure, combining multiple functions into a single integrated component. This integration reduces the number of discrete parts and assembly steps, thereby lowering device complexity while maintaining the optical isolation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier component serves multiple functions simultaneously: it blocks direct light transmission (crosstalk reduction), defines the optical path geometry, and can be integrated with structural or housing elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, simplifying the overall device structure.
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 significantly reduces internal optical crosstalk and improves the signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for more accurate detection of objects within a predefined distance, even in applications with transparent covers, by ensuring minimal light interference and maximizing sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
The separation member is substantially non-transparent to light emitted by the light emitter
Implementation Method 2
a light emitter arranged in the first opening and positioned at a first height, the light emitter to emit light
Implementation Method 3
an optics member having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface to face away from the light emitter and the second surface to face the light detector
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical proximity sensor module includes a substrate, a light emitter mounted on a first surface of the substrate, the light emitter being operable to emit light at a first wavelength, and a light detector mounted on the first surface of the substrate, the light detector being operable to detect light at the first wavelength. The module includes an optics member disposed substantially parallel to the substrate, and a separation member disposed between the substrate and the optics member. The separation member may surround the light emitter and the light detector, and may include a wall portion that extends from the substrate to the optics member and that separates the light emitter and the light detector from one another. The separation member may be composed, for example, of a non-transparent polymer material containing a pigment, such as carbon black.