Orthogonal Light-Modulating Elements for Laser Speckle Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies fail to sufficiently reduce speckle in display devices using laser light, as isotropic scattering alone cannot achieve a sufficient scattering property or spatially change the scattering pattern effectively.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a first and second light-modulating element, where the scattering directions are orthogonal, and a driving module alternates between scattering and transmitting modes for each element to create intersecting scattering patterns, reducing speckle by changing the scattering pattern spatially and temporally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If isotropic scattering is used to reduce speckle, then scattering property is improved, but scattering pattern cannot be spatially changed and speckle reduction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the scattering function into two separate light-modulating elements arranged in series. The first element scatters light in a first direction while the second element scatters in a second direction (orthogonal to the first). This segmentation allows each element to specialize in a specific scattering direction, enabling both effective speckle reduction and spatial pattern change that cannot be achieved with single isotropic scattering elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-direction scattering to multi-directional scattering by introducing orthogonal scattering directions. The first light-modulating element scatters light in one direction (e.g., vertical), while the second element scatters in an orthogonal direction (e.g., horizontal). This dimensional expansion creates a two-dimensional scattering pattern that effectively reduces speckle while providing spatial versatility.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple light-modulating elements with orthogonal scattering directions are used, then speckle reduction is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple scattering functions into a single optical path by arranging light-modulating elements in series. Instead of using separate scattering components that would increase complexity, the elements are merged into one integrated light modulation sequence, where light passes through the first element and then the second element in succession, achieving speckle reduction without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each light-modulating element is designed to perform dual functions: scattering light in a specific direction to reduce speckle and maintaining light transmission when not actively scattering. The elements can be controlled to alternate between scattering and non-scattering states, providing multi-functionality that reduces the need for additional components and simplifies 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
The solution effectively reduces speckle in display devices by alternately scattering and transmitting light through the orthogonal light-modulating elements, improving display quality by minimizing the influence of coherent light speckle patterns.
Implementation Method 1
a first light-modulating element transmitting or scattering light; a second light-modulating element transmitting or scattering the light passing through the first light-modulating element
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an optical device includes a first light-modulating element transmitting or scattering light, and a second light-modulating element transmitting or scattering the light passing through the first light-modulating element, a driving module alternately performing a first mode of making the first light-modulating element scatter the light and making the second light-modulating element transmit the light, and a second mode of making the first light-modulating element transmit the light and making the second light-modulating element scatter the light.