Switchable Diffuser Projector for 3D Depth Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with projectors and light illuminators face increased design complexity and manufacturing costs due to the need for separate components for projecting patterns and providing ambient light for clear image capture.
Innovation Solution
A projector equipped with a light-emitting device, a diffraction optical element, and a switchable diffuser that can be controlled to either diffuse or not diffuse light, allowing it to function as both a pattern projector and a uniform illuminator, reducing the need for distinct components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a projector and a light illuminator are set in the electronic device, then the image capture quality is improved, but the design complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single projector that can perform multiple functions: projecting structured light patterns for 3D depth detection and providing uniform ambient illumination for clear image capture. The projector includes a light-emitting device with a diffraction optical element that can be controlled to operate in different modes (pattern projection mode and illumination mode), eliminating the need for separate dedicated illuminator hardware while maintaining both functionality and image capture quality
2Measurement precision
If a projector and a light illuminator are set in the electronic device, then the image capture quality is improved, but the manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the projector and light illuminator into a single integrated device. The light-emitting device with its diffraction optical element serves dual purposes: creating structured light patterns for depth mapping and providing uniform illumination for image capture. This consolidation reduces the total component count, simplifies assembly processes, and lowers manufacturing costs while still delivering high-quality image capture performance
3Illumination intensity
If the switchable diffuser is used to diffuse light, then the illumination uniformity is improved, but the pattern projection capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamics by implementing a switchable diffuser that can change its optical properties based on operational requirements. The diffuser can be switched between a diffuse state (for uniform illumination mode) and a non-diffuse state (for structured light pattern projection mode). This dynamic switching capability, controlled by a control signal, allows the system to maintain both illumination uniformity and pattern projection capability without compromise, as each function activates the optimal diffuser state
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
This solution simplifies device design and reduces manufacturing costs by enabling a single projector to serve both functions, enhancing flexibility and image clarity while maintaining 3D image capture capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a diffraction optical element (DOE)... the laser beam passes through the DOE... to generate an output image
Implementation Method 2
the switchable diffuser is controlled by a control signal to diffuse or scatter received lights or not diffuse or scatter the received lights
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a projector including a light-emitting device, a diffraction optical element (DOE) and a switchable diffuser. The light-emitting device is arranged for generating a laser beam. The switchable diffuser is controlled by a control signal to diffuse or scatter received lights or not diffuse or scatter the received lights, wherein the laser beam passes through the DOE and the switchable diffuser to generate an output image of the projector.