Semiconductor Laser Array Thermal Management via 3D Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light source apparatuses using semiconductor laser devices suffer from inadequate heat dissipation, leading to increased temperatures and reduced light output over time.
Innovation Solution
A light source apparatus design that arranges semiconductor laser devices with a greater relative position in the optical axis direction compared to the perpendicular direction, utilizing a holding member with depressions and radiating members to enhance heat dissipation, allowing for efficient heat release and maintaining light output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If semiconductor laser devices are densely arranged to reduce apparatus size, then device integration is improved, but heat dissipation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar arrangement to three-dimensional stacked arrangement of semiconductor laser devices. Multiple devices are positioned at different heights along the optical axis, with each device having a specific relative position in the optical axis direction greater than its relative position in the perpendicular direction. This vertical stacking enables compact lateral footprint while maintaining adequate thermal spacing through the height dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the semiconductor laser devices into multiple groups positioned at different vertical levels. Each device is independently positioned with specific coordinates (x, y, z) where z represents the optical axis direction. This segmentation allows heat from each device to be managed separately, preventing heat accumulation that would occur in dense planar arrangements.
2Productivity
If operating time is extended to improve productivity, then output is improved, but temperature rise increases causing light output reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-establishes an optimized three-dimensional spatial arrangement of semiconductor laser devices before operation begins. The relative positions in the optical axis direction are carefully designed in advance to ensure adequate thermal separation. This preliminary configuration prevents temperature-related light output degradation during extended operation by maintaining proper heat dissipation pathways from the start.
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 design effectively dissipates heat, maintaining stable light output and optical performance over extended operation, while also enabling downsizing of the light source apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a light source apparatus which uses a plurality of semiconductor laser devices, comprising the plurality of semiconductor laser devices and a holding member on which the plurality of semiconductor laser devices is arranged
Implementation Method 2
adequate heat dissipation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
A light source apparatus is provided which uses a plurality of semiconductor laser devices and which offers adequate heat dissipation. The light source apparatus using a plurality of semiconductor laser devices includes a holding member on which the plurality of semiconductor laser devices is arranged, wherein at least one semiconductor laser device among the plurality of semiconductor laser devices is arranged on the holding member such that a relative position of the semiconductor laser device in an optical axis direction with respect to an adjacent semiconductor laser device in a front view of the holding member is greater than a relative position of the semiconductor laser device in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction with respect to the adjacent semiconductor laser device.