INTEGRATED OPTICAL ENCODER MODULE

摘要

Examples of the disclosure enclose an optical target on an encoder and sensors inside a single integrated module, wherein the encoder and the sensors are coupled to the same rigid body to maintain optical alignment between the sensors and the optical target on the encoder. Further, the module itself may be hermetically sealed to protect the optical path (e.g., from a light source to the optical target to the sensors) from contamination due to outside dirt, debris, or light sources internal/external to the device that might further interfere with alignment and/or proper sensing. Because the integrated module results in smaller variations in the alignment between the optical target and the sensors, the dynamic range of the sensors may be reduced, resulting in less power consumption and, potentially, longer battery life for the device. The use of an integrated module can also enable relaxed manufacturing requirements for the optical sensor and/or the optical target.

主权项

1. An electronic device comprising:
one or more light sources; a plurality of sensors; an optical encoder; an integrated module comprising a first body, wherein the light sources, the plurality of sensors, and the optical encoder are each coupled to the first body such that the light sources, the plurality of sensors, and the optical encoder are maintained in optical alignment; and a shaft coupled to the optical encoder, wherein the shaft is disposed outside the integrated module.