TIR Prism Mirror Assembly for Wide Scanning With Less Moving Mass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical imaging systems face challenges with size, weight, cost, and complexity due to the use of multiple moving optical elements, leading to inefficiencies and heat generation.
Innovation Solution
A bi-axial mirror assembly using a total inner reflection (TIR) prism with two triangular prisms separated by an optical coating or air, combined with a scanning mirror, reduces the need for two moving elements and minimizes system size and weight, while allowing efficient image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two moving optical elements (mirrors) are used to achieve broad scanning coverage, then the field of view is broadened, but the system size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate moving mirrors into a single moving mirror that works with a fixed TIR prism assembly. The TIR prism assembly integrates multiple reflective surfaces that work together to achieve broad scanning coverage without requiring a second large moving mirror, thus reducing system weight while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using two moving mirrors to achieve broad coverage, the patent inverts the approach by using one moving mirror combined with a fixed multi-element TIR prism assembly. This inversion allows the system to achieve the same broad scanning capability with reduced moving mass, as the complex optical path manipulation is achieved through the fixed prism geometry rather than additional moving components.
2Reliability
If two moving optical elements are used to avoid image rolling, then image coverage quality is improved, but the system complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the image coverage function into a single moving mirror system that works in conjunction with a fixed TIR prism assembly. The TIR prisms are configured to redirect light paths such that one moving mirror suffices to achieve complete area coverage without image rolling, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical complexity of two moving mirrors with a fixed optical structure (TIR prism assembly) that performs part of the scanning function through its geometry. This substitution reduces the number of moving parts and control mechanisms required, simplifying the system while maintaining the ability to achieve complete area coverage without image rolling.
3Adaptability or versatility
If large mirrors are used to encompass the whole range of angles, then scanning coverage is complete, but the system becomes bulky and requires powerful engines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions into a compact TIR prism assembly that can be integrated with a smaller moving mirror. The TIR prisms are arranged to provide the necessary angle redirection within a compact volume, allowing complete scanning coverage to be achieved without requiring large-diameter mirrors, thus reducing system volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the TIR prism assembly to manipulate light paths in three-dimensional space, utilizing angular redirection through the prism geometry. This allows the system to achieve broad scanning coverage without increasing the physical dimensions of the moving mirror, as the extended coverage is achieved through optical path folding rather than larger mirror 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 solution provides a compact, efficient, and cost-effective optical imaging system capable of high-quality image acquisition with minimal rolling and heat generation, utilizing materials like silicon and calcium fluoride for the prisms and coatings like germanium for improved performance.
Implementation Method 1
a total inner reflection (TIR) prism with two triangular prisms separated by an optical coating or air
Data Source
AI summary
A total inner reflection (TIR) prism comprises two essentially triangular prisms separated by an optical coating or by a thin layer of air, wherein one of said two triangular prisms is shaped as an isosceles triangle.