Planar Light Detection Device for Quantitative Phase Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interferometers require cumbersome measurement operations, and phase-contrast microscopes face difficulties in quantitatively measuring phase differences.
Innovation Solution
A light detection device comprising a first and second photodetector, a light-transmissive first layer with opposing optical couplers, and a second layer with a lower refractive index, allowing for the detection of phase differences between incident light beams and enabling quantitative determination of object information without complex operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If interferometers are used to obtain surface profile and wavefront information, then measurement capability is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical optical path adjustment system of traditional interferometers with a planar integrated optical system. The optical path difference is generated through fixed waveguide structures and layer thickness variations rather than mechanical movement of optical components, eliminating the need for complex operational adjustments while maintaining interferometric measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional mechanical optical path adjustment to two-dimensional planar waveguide-based optical path control. The optical path difference is encoded in the planar layer structures (different thicknesses of light-transmissive layers) rather than requiring spatial manipulation of optical components, simplifying the operational dimension
2Reliability
If phase-contrast microscopes are used to observe transparent objects, then observation capability is improved, but quantitative measurement capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces waveguides and optical couplers as intermediary elements between the transparent object and photodetectors. These intermediaries convert the optical phase information into detectable intensity variations through controlled optical path differences, enabling quantitative phase measurement while maintaining the ability to observe transparent objects
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the qualitative visual observation system of phase-contrast microscopes with a quantitative photodetection system. By using photodetectors to measure light intensity after controlled optical path differences are introduced through waveguide structures, the system converts qualitative phase contrast into quantitative phase difference measurements
3Measurement precision
If complex optical systems are used to detect light, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical functions (waveguide, optical coupler, phase modulation element) into a single integrated planar structure. The first and second light-transmissive layers are formed as unified structures with different thicknesses, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The light-transmissive layers serve multiple functions simultaneously: they act as waveguides for light propagation, as optical path difference generators through thickness variations, and as structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the device structure while achieving precise phase difference detection
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 stable and robust detection of phase differences, facilitating quantitative analysis of object structures, such as surface profiles and refractive index distributions, with improved sensitivity and reduced noise.
Implementation Method 1
a first layer disposed above the first photodetector and the second photodetector, the first layer being light-transmissive
Implementation Method 2
a first optical coupler disposed on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the first surface and the second surface, the first optical coupler being light-transmissive and opposing the first photodetector
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a light detector, a first layer, a first optical coupler, and a second optical coupler. The light detector includes a first photodetector and a second photodetector. The first layer is disposed above the first photodetector and the second photodetector. The first layer is light-transmissive and has a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface. The first optical coupler is disposed on at least one surface selected from the group consisting of the first surface and the second surface. The second optical coupler is disposed on the at least one surface. The first and second optical couplers are light-transmissive and disposed above the first and second photodetectors, respectively. The second surface is closer to the light detector than the first surface.