Spatial Light Modulator Zig-Zag Gap Artifact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Digital micromirror devices (DMDs) suffer from light artifacts due to unwanted reflection and scattering of light from peripheral reflective surfaces, which interfere with the quality of the displayed image.
Innovation Solution
A spatial light modulator (SLM) with a light shield featuring a zig-zag shaped gap between the metal layers and the light shield, redirecting vertically exposed metal surfaces' reflections away from the optical element, thereby reducing light artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If reflective elements are placed along the periphery of the array, then the device structure is completed and light can be directed properly, but light artifacts occur due to unwanted reflection and scattering into the optical element
Solution Approach 1:
The gap between the reflective elements and light shield is segmented into multiple angled surfaces forming a zig-zag pattern, dividing the single gap space into several reflective segments that redirect light through multiple bounces away from the optical element
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the gap structure have different orientations - the zig-zag pattern creates localized angled surfaces at specific positions to redirect light from peripheral reflective elements while maintaining proper light paths from the pixel array
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a light shield is added to block stray light, then light artifacts are reduced, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light shield is merged with the reflective elements to form a single integrated structure where the light shield extends from the same substrate and shares common support structures, reducing the number of separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The gap between reflective elements and light shield uses angled planar surfaces that create directional light redirection through geometric optics, achieving artifact reduction through precise angular geometry rather than curved surfaces
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 zig-zag shaped gap effectively minimizes light artifacts by redirecting unwanted reflections, enhancing the image quality by reducing stray light entry into the optical system.
Implementation Method 1
redirecting vertically exposed metal surfaces' reflections away from the optical element
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a spatial light modulator (SLM) and a light shield. The SLM has first and second opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides. The SLM includes an array of pixel elements. The SLM also includes reflective elements along the first side. At least some of the reflective elements have a metal layer. The light shield has a first portion adjacent the reflective elements. A gap between the metal layers and the light shield has a zig-zag shape.