Optical Scanner With Vibratory Phased Array Beam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light scanning devices, such as 2D scanners and micro-scanners, face issues with compactness, alignment sensitivity, heat-induced damage, and limited scanning space due to the use of multiple micro-mirrors or a single micro-mirror with non-parallel pivot axes, and the space scanned by optical phased arrays is relatively limited.
Innovation Solution
An optical scanner comprising a fixed planar support, a beam with a movable portion that can bend or torsion, an optical source, waveguides to split the main optical beam into secondary beams, and an optical phased array with phase-shifters on the beam's emission section, allowing light extraction from both faces and enabling extended scanning with reduced alignment requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple micro-mirrors are used for 2D scanning, then scanning capability is improved, but device compactness deteriorates and alignment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple micro-mirrors into a single integrated beam structure with a phased array, where multiple optical sources are arranged in a matrix on the beam. This merging approach maintains 2D scanning capability while eliminating the need for separate mirror alignments, as the integrated structure provides inherent alignment stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the support for optical sources, provides the scanning mechanism through vibration, and functions as the optical path structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate alignment of multiple components, resolving the alignment complexity issue while maintaining scanning capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If micro-mirrors are used for light scanning, then scanning function is achieved, but heat-induced damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical micro-mirror system with a vibratory beam structure that uses controlled vibrations instead of mechanical pivoting. This substitution eliminates the focal point concentration of light energy that causes heat-induced damage in mirror systems, as the distributed optical sources and vibration-based scanning distribute thermal load more evenly.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam structure acts as an intermediary between the optical sources and the scanning function, distributing the light energy across multiple sources rather than concentrating it on a single reflective surface. This intermediary structure prevents heat buildup at any single point, reducing the risk of heat-induced damage while maintaining scanning capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If optical phased array is used for scanning, then alignment requirements are reduced, but scanning space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic vibration to the optical phased array beam, allowing the scanning space to be extended through temporal modulation. The vibratory motion of the beam during operation dynamically expands the effective scanning area beyond the static limitations, while the integrated structure maintains ease of manufacture by preserving the alignment-free advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the temporal dimension through vibratory scanning, transforming the scanning process from a purely spatial arrangement to a spatio-temporal operation. This allows the optical phased array to achieve larger scanning spaces by utilizing the time-varying position of the vibrating beam, effectively extending the coverage area without compromising the alignment-free manufacturing advantage.
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, robust light scanning device capable of scanning larger spaces with minimal alignment needs, reducing mechanical crosstalk and heat-induced damage, while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator arranged to impart either a bending or a torsion on a movable portion of the beam
Implementation Method 2
an actuator arranged to impart either a bending or a torsion on a movable portion of the beam
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of waveguides disposed on or in the beam and intended to split the main optical beam into a plurality of secondary optical beams
Implementation Method 4
each being able to emit a light radiation. Moreover, each of its optical sources is associated to phase modulation means intended to phase-shift the optical radiations
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a scanner provided with a vibratory beam on or in which is formed a phased array intended to extract according to either one of two parallel faces of the beam a light radiation that could be emitted by a light source.