Split Polarizer for Simultaneous Multi-Oriented Light Viewing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing polarized light systems require users to switch or rotate between different polarization orientations, which can be complex and inconvenient for applications such as medical, forensic, and imaging tasks.

Innovation Solution

A polarizing light filter apparatus featuring a split polarizer that converts incident light into two polarized orientations, allowing simultaneous viewing of both orientations without the need for user intervention, through a housing with a viewing window and an image capturing device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single polarization orientation is used in polarized light systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the user must manually switch or rotate between different polarization orientations, increasing operational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The polarizer is divided into multiple segments, each transmitting a different polarization orientation (e.g., 0° and 45° linear polarizations). This segmentation allows simultaneous presentation of multiple polarization states without requiring manual switching, resolving the contradiction by maintaining simple device structure while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging different polarization orientations in different spatial regions of the same field of view. Users can simultaneously view multiple polarization states through different portions of the same aperture, eliminating the need for manual rotation or switching while keeping the device structure simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Extent of automation

If multiple polarization orientations are presented simultaneously, then hands-free viewing is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextent of automationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The polarizer is divided into multiple segments, each transmitting a different polarization orientation (e.g., 0° and 45° linear polarizations). This segmentation allows simultaneous presentation of multiple polarization states without requiring manual switching, resolving the contradiction by maintaining simple device structure while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple polarization orientations are merged into a single field of view through spatial arrangement. The device combines multiple polarization states that would traditionally require separate viewing paths or sequential switching into one integrated viewing area, enabling hands-free operation while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If a rotatable polarizer is used to change polarization orientations, then different polarization states can be achieved, but the device requires user interaction and decision-making, reducing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The polarizer is divided into multiple segments, each transmitting a different polarization orientation (e.g., 0° and 45° linear polarizations). This segmentation allows simultaneous presentation of multiple polarization states without requiring manual switching, resolving the contradiction by maintaining simple device structure while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple polarization orientations are pre-configured in fixed spatial positions within the field of view. The system performs the action of presenting different polarization states in advance, eliminating the need for real-time user rotation or decision-making, thereby improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 hands-free, real-time viewing and imaging of multiple polarization orientations, simplifying the process and enhancing the efficiency of applications that utilize polarized light.

Implementation Method 1

a split polarizer temporarily affixed to at least one alternative portion of the surface of the housing, the split polarizer being in mechanical communication with the at least one viewing window. In this embodiment, the split polarizer may be configured to convert an orientation of the incident light into at least two polarized orientations.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolarization: Polarisation

Data Source

PatentUS20250172818A1Simultaneous polarized light viewing/imaging through a split polarizer
Publication Date: 2025.05.29 UNIV OF SOUTH FLORIDA
  • US20250172818A1 patent drawing
  • US20250172818A1 patent drawing
  • US20250172818A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein relates to a system and method of filtering a polarized light through at least a polarization orientation for simultaneous viewing. The polarizing light filter apparatus may comprise at least one light source and/or a split polarizer configured to provide the polarization orientation of incident light. Light source may be configured to emit the incident light toward a structure, such that the incident light may be reflected off the structure through the split polarizing comprising a first polarization orientation (e.g., parallel) and/or a second polarizing orientation (e.g., cross). The reflected light may travel through the split polarizer, providing a simultaneous view of the first polarization orientation and/or the second polarization orientation, in real-time. Moreover, the simultaneous view of the polarized light may allow for a more detailed visual experience as well as optimize the ability to determine which orientation of light best illuminates a feature of interest.