VCSEL Sub-Array Optics for Addressable Parallel Illumination Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light sources using VCSEL arrays for illumination require complex, bulky optics and moving parts to create homogeneous, individually addressable zones, which are not cost-effective and have limited building height.
Innovation Solution
A light source comprising an array of VCSELs with at least two sub-arrays and a single optical member that transforms light into parallel, individually addressable illumination lines, using a transmissive, diffractive, or GRIN lens or meta-lens to achieve homogeneous illumination without bulky optics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If complex bulky optics and moving parts are used to create homogeneous individually addressable zones, then illumination quality is improved, but device complexity and building height are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The VCSEL array is divided into multiple independently controllable sub-arrays, where each sub-array can be individually addressed to create specific illumination zones. This segmentation allows complex illumination patterns to be achieved through simple electronic control of individual sub-arrays, eliminating the need for complex mechanical scanning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems (such as MEMS mirrors) with electronically controlled VCSEL sub-arrays. By using electrical signals to selectively activate different sub-arrays, the system achieves dynamic illumination control without moving parts, significantly reducing device complexity and building height.
2Illumination intensity
If complex bulky optics are used to create homogeneous individually addressable zones, then illumination quality is improved, but manufacturing cost is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical optics with a planar VCSEL array structure that can be manufactured using standard semiconductor fabrication processes. The VCSELs are arranged in a regular grid pattern on a flat substrate, eliminating the need for bulky optical components and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional mechanical optical systems to a two-dimensional planar VCSEL array structure. This dimensional reduction allows the system to be manufactured using flat-panel semiconductor processes, significantly lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining illumination quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If moving parts like MEMS mirror are used for illumination scanning, then field of view coverage is improved, but device complexity and building height are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The VCSEL array is divided into multiple sub-arrays that can be independently controlled to illuminate different regions of the field of view. By selectively activating specific sub-arrays, the system achieves wide field of view coverage without requiring mechanical scanning, thereby reducing building height.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning mirrors with electronically controlled VCSEL sub-arrays that can rapidly switch between different illumination zones. This electronic switching mechanism achieves the same field of view coverage as mechanical scanning but with a compact, flat structure that minimizes building height.
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 enables low-cost, compact, and efficient illumination with individually addressable zones, reducing power consumption and improving measurement accuracy in sensors like time-of-flight cameras.
Implementation Method 1
The optical member is configured as a single optical element and configured to transform light emitted by the sub-arrays into substantially parallel illumination lines in a target area
Implementation Method 2
The optical member has facets in the direction of the second axis. Each facet has a size in the direction of the second axis which is smaller than a size of a sub-array in the direction of the second axis
Data Source
AI summary
A light source comprises an array of Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) and an optical member. The array comprises at least two sub-arrays. The sub-arrays are displaced with respect to one another along a first axis. The optical member is configured as a single optical element and configured to transform light emitted by the sub-arrays into substantially parallel illumination lines in a target area. The illumination lines are arranged along the first axis. Each illumination line has a width in a direction of the first axis and a length in a direction of a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. The width is smaller than the length. The optical member has facets in the direction of the second axis. Each facet has a size in the direction of the second axis which is smaller than a size of a sub-array in the direction of the second axis.