Optoelectronic Sensor Light Homogenization via Absorbing Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical sensors face challenges in efficiently detecting structured objects due to the complexity and cost of producing structured windshields, and in achieving uniform light intensity for effective object detection.
Innovation Solution
An optoelectronic sensor design featuring a windshield with patterns of light-absorbing material for homogenization, allowing for inexpensive production and reduced installation space, using Fresnel lenses for linear light extension and an optical partition to prevent crosstalk, with a compact sensor housing for enhanced detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a structured front pane with optical elements is used to homogenize light, then light intensity homogeneity is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light-absorbing element as an intermediary component placed in the light path between the light source and the front pane. This element absorbs excess light in specific regions to achieve homogeneity without modifying the front pane structure itself, thus avoiding complex manufacturing while achieving the desired light distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The homogenization function is extracted from the front pane structure and implemented separately by a dedicated light-absorbing element. This separation allows the front pane to remain simple and easy to manufacture, while the light-absorbing element handles the complex light modulation task
2Reliability
If transmission optics are used to extend the light beam perpendicularly, then detection capability for structured objects is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission optics component is designed to perform multiple functions: it extends the light beam perpendicularly for detecting structured objects, while also working in conjunction with the light-absorbing element to achieve light homogenization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby managing device complexity
3Volume of moving object
If the sensor components are arranged in a compact housing, then installation space is reduced, but heat dissipation and optical interference may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges optical components in specific spatial dimensions within the compact housing to ensure proper light paths are maintained. The light-absorbing element is positioned in the light path without requiring additional housing volume, achieving compactness through optimized dimensional arrangement rather than simply reducing size
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
The solution enables high-quality, inexpensive optoelectronic sensors to detect objects reliably by ensuring uniform light intensity and reduced installation space, allowing for efficient detection of structured objects with minimal light absorption variations.
Implementation Method 1
the front pane is covered with patterns of light-absorbing material for light intensity homogenization in the area through which the transmitted light passes or in an area through which the received light passes
Implementation Method 2
using Fresnel lenses for linear light extension
Implementation Method 3
The transmission optics 24 forming the transmission light profile can be designed, for example, as Fresnel lenses
Data Source
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AI summary
An optoelectronic sensor having a transmitter (12) for the transmission of a transmitted light beam (22), a receiver (14) for the reception of received light (28) and for the provision of an electronic received signal, and an evaluation unit (16) for the recording of the received signal and for the outputting of an object detection signal. An optoelectronic sensor having a transmitter (12) for the transmission of a transmitted light beam (22) which is extended perpendicular to a transmitted beam direction by means of an optical transmission system (24), a receiver (14) for the reception of received light (28) and for the provision of an electronic received signal and an evaluation unit (16) for the recording of the received signal and for the outputting of an object detection signal, where at least the transmitter (12) and the optical transmission system (24) are arranged in a sensor housing (18) having a front screen (20), characterized in that the front screen (20) is overlaid with patterns (40) of light absorbing material for light intensity homogenization in a region (21S) through which the transmitted light (22) passes and/or in a region (21E) through which the received light (28) passes.