Sensor Receiving Lens Edge Section Total Internal Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical sensors, particularly distance sensors, face challenges in covering the largest possible measuring range due to limited power from distant targets and inefficiencies in imaging close-range objects, often requiring additional optical elements that restrict the usable area for far-zone detection.
Innovation Solution
A sensor design featuring a receiving lens with an edge section that deflects light from close-range objects onto the receiving element via total reflection, allowing for precise detection without additional components, using a smooth, flat, curved, or rough surface to direct light effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional optical elements (close-up lenses or mirrors) are arranged to detect close-range objects, then close-range detection capability is improved, but the usable area of the receiving aperture for far-zone detection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving lens is segmented into two functional zones: a central main lens area for far-range detection and a peripheral edge section for close-range detection. This segmentation allows each zone to optimize its function without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between close-range and far-range detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The edge section of the receiving lens is given different optical properties than the main lens area. Specifically, the edge section has a different refractive index or curvature designed to capture and focus light from close-range objects, while the main lens area maintains its original design for far-range detection. This local differentiation enables simultaneous optimization for both detection ranges.
2Reliability
If the receiving aperture area is increased to improve far-range detection, then far-range signal reception is improved, but close-range object imaging becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving lens is divided into functional zones where the edge section specifically handles close-range light paths while the central area handles far-range light paths. This segmentation ensures that increasing the overall aperture area for far-range detection does not compromise close-range imaging, as each zone is optimized for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from a one-dimensional optimization (aperture size) to a two-dimensional optimization by utilizing both the radial position (center vs. edge) and the optical properties of different lens regions. This allows the sensor to simultaneously achieve good performance for both close-range and far-range detection within the same aperture area.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional close-up zones or lenses are added to detect near-range objects, then near-range detection is improved, but the area available for far-zone signal reception is reduced and far-end signal contribution is minimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of separate close-up and far-range optical elements into a single integrated receiving lens. The edge section of the same lens that detects close-range objects does not obstruct far-zone signal reception, as far-zone light paths pass through the central main lens area. This merging eliminates the need for additional components while maintaining both detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving lens is designed as a multi-functional optical element where different regions serve different detection purposes. The main lens area handles far-zone detection while the edge section handles close-range detection, making the single lens universal for both functions without requiring additional specialized components.
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 reliable detection of close-range objects without compromising far-range detection capabilities, improving detection accuracy and area coverage without additional materials or manufacturing steps, thus enhancing the sensor's overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
the edge section having a smooth surface, the edge section directing the light in the near range to the receiving element via total reflection
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Sensor with a transmitting element (2) for emitting light, with a receiving element (4) for receiving light in a near range (10) and a far range (12) and a receiving lens (14) which is arranged in front of the receiving element (4), wherein the receiving lens (14) has an edge section (16), wherein the edge section (16) deflects the light from the near range (10) onto the receiving element (4), wherein the edge section (16) has a smooth surface (22), and wherein the edge section (16) directs the light in the near range (10) onto the receiving element (4) via total internal reflection.