Rotatable Optical Module for Dual-Side 3D Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smartphones with optical modules for 3D imaging require both front and back optical modules, increasing device size and cost due to complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable optical module that projects structured light using a driver and optical assembly, allowing the module to change direction without the need for a separate back module, utilizing a stepper or servo motor to rotate and adjust light intensity, and integrating a transparent conductive film for light sensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both front and back optical modules are used to sense 3D objects at opposite sides, then 3D sensing capability at opposite sides is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single optical module is designed to perform multiple functions: it can sense 3D objects at both the front and back of the device by rotating to different orientations. The optical module includes a laser source, beam splitter, and image sensor that work together to project structured light and capture reflections from objects in different directions, eliminating the need for separate front and back modules
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module is made rotatable through a rotation mechanism driven by a stepper motor or servo motor. This dynamic capability allows the module to change its orientation and point towards different sides of the device, enabling a single static physical component to perform the function of multiple fixed components
2Adaptability or versatility
If both front and back optical modules are used, then 3D sensing capability is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the front optical module and back optical module into a single integrated unit. The optical module includes a holder, rotation shaft, beam splitter, and image sensor assembly that are merged into one component, reducing the number of parts and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining the capability to sense objects at both front and back
3Adaptability or versatility
If both front and back optical modules are used, then 3D sensing capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a universal optical module that can serve both front and back sensing needs through rotation, the patent reduces the quantity of optical components required. Instead of manufacturing and installing two complete optical modules, only one is needed, thereby reducing material costs, manufacturing costs, and overall device cost
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 3D object sensing at opposite sides of the device with reduced size and cost, simplifying the device structure and maintaining accurate geometry measurement capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
optical modules which can project structured light. The structured light can be used for quickly and accurately sensing and measuring the geometries of three-dimensional (3D) objects
Implementation Method 2
integrating a transparent conductive film for light sensing
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable optical module able to aim structured light in different directions includes a driver and an optical assembly positioned at a side of the driver and connected to the driver. The optical assembly projects structured light. The driver drives the optical assembly to rotate, thereby changing the aiming direction of the structured light. An electronic device using such module and placed directly between two target objects is able to function as a meter of the distance between the objects in addition to mapping the contours of each.