light source

Abstract

The light source comprises: a housing; a support body that abuts against the housing in a specific direction; a plate that abuts against the housing in the specific direction; a phosphor supported on the support body that absorbs excitation light and emits fluorescence; a lens supported on the support body that allows the excitation light and the fluorescence to pass through; and a plurality of optical components mounted on the plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to light sources. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a light source device for a projector. In this light source device, lenses, dichroic mirrors, reflective diffusers, phosphor wheels, etc., are housed in a dustproof housing (paragraphs 0022, 0023, and 0030).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2022 / 038651 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The light source device disclosed in Patent Document 1 has problems such as insufficient positional accuracy of the lens, dichroic mirror, reflective diffuser, phosphor wheel, etc., and difficulty in assembly.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure is intended to solve these problems. One objective of this disclosure is to provide, for example, a light source with sufficient positional accuracy of optical components and ease of assembly.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] One aspect of the light source disclosed herein comprises: a housing; a support body abutting against the housing in a specific direction; a plate abutting against the housing in the specific direction; a phosphor supported on the support body, absorbing excitation light and emitting fluorescence; a lens supported on the support body, allowing the excitation light and the fluorescence to pass through; and a plurality of optical components mounted on the plate. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the projector of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the optical unit of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the optical unit of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the optical unit of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the optical unit of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the housing and heat sink of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the housing and heat sink of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and heat sink of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and heat sink of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and heat sink of a projector according to a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the housing, plate, multiple optical components, and multiple cages of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the housing, plate, multiple optical components, and multiple cages of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and plate of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and plate of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and plate of a projector in a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the plate, multiple optical components, and multiple cages included in the projector of the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the plate, multiple optical components, and multiple cages included in the projector of the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 18This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the plate and cage of a projector in a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the plate and cage of a projector in a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the light source, illumination optical system, and elastomer of the projector according to the first embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, regarding the drawings, identical or equivalent elements will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. In the drawings, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system extending in the +X, +Y, and +Z directions, respectively, are depicted as needed.

[0032] 1 First Implementation Method

[0033] 1.1 Projector

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the projector of the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 1 The projector 1 of the first embodiment shown illuminates the projection surface using image light 22 corresponding to the input signal. Thus, the projector 1 projects an image corresponding to the input signal onto the projection surface.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the projector 1 includes a light source 11, an illumination optical system 12, and a projection lens 13.

[0037] Light source 11 emits outgoing light 21.

[0038] The illumination optical system 12 uses the input signal to modulate the emitted light 21 to generate image light 22.

[0039] The projection lens 13 illuminates the projection surface using the generated image light 22. Thus, the projection lens 13 projects an image corresponding to the input signal onto the projection surface.

[0040] 1.2 Light Source

[0041] like Figure 1As shown, the light source 11 includes a first laser source 31, a first lens 32, a second laser source 33, a second lens 34, a reflector 35, a first dichroic mirror 36, a microlens array 37, a second dichroic mirror 38, a third lens 39, a diffuser reflector 40, a fourth lens 41, a phosphor wheel 42, a fifth lens 43, and a motor 44. The phosphor wheel 42 includes a substrate 51 and a phosphor 52.

[0042] The first laser source 31 emits a first light 61. The first light 61 is blue light. The first light 61 can also be light other than blue light. The first laser source 31 has multiple laser diodes and multiple collimating lenses. The multiple collimating lenses correspond to the multiple laser diodes respectively. Each laser diode emits light. The collimating lenses corresponding to each laser diode collimate the light emitted by each laser diode to generate collimated light. The collimated light generated by the multiple collimating lenses constitutes the first light 61.

[0043] The first lens 32 allows the first light 61 to pass through. At this time, the first lens 32 adjusts the beam diameter of the first light 61.

[0044] The second laser source 33 emits a second light 62. The second light 62 has a wavelength different from that of the first light 61. The second light 62 is red light. The second light 62 can also be light other than red. The second laser source 33 includes multiple laser diodes and multiple collimating lenses. Each collimating lens corresponds to one of the multiple laser diodes. Each laser diode emits light. The collimating lens corresponding to each laser diode collimates the light emitted by each laser diode to generate collimated light. The collimated light generated by the multiple collimating lenses constitutes the second light 62.

[0045] The second lens 34 allows the second light 62 to pass through. At this time, the second lens 34 adjusts the beam diameter of the second light 62.

[0046] The mirror 35 reflects the second light 62 that has passed through the second lens 34.

[0047] The first dichroic mirror 36 allows the first light 61 that has passed through the first lens 32 to pass through, and reflects the second light 62 that has been reflected by the mirror 35.

[0048] The microlens array 37 allows the first light 61, which passes through the first dichroic mirror 36, and the second light 62, which is reflected by the first dichroic mirror 36, to pass through. At this time, the microlens array 37 homogenizes the intensity distribution of the first light 61 and the second light 62.

[0049] The second dichroic mirror 38 reflects a portion of the first light 61 that has passed through the microlens array 37 to generate excitation light 63, and allows another portion of the first light 61 that has passed through the microlens array 37 to pass through, generating light 64 other than the excitation light. The second dichroic mirror 38 also allows the second light 62 that has passed through the microlens array 37 to pass through.

[0050] The third lens 39 allows light 64, excluding the excitation light that has passed through the second dichroic mirror 38, and the second light 62 to pass through. At this time, the third lens 39 converges light 64 and the second light 62, excluding the excitation light.

[0051] The diffuser reflector 40 diffuses and reflects light 64 other than the excitation light transmitted through the third lens 39 and second light 62.

[0052] The third lens 39 allows light 64, other than the excitation light diffused and reflected by the diffuse reflector 40, and the second light 62 to pass through.

[0053] The fourth lens 41 allows the excitation light 63 reflected by the second dichroic mirror 38 to pass through. At this time, the fourth lens 41 converges the excitation light 63.

[0054] The phosphor 52 absorbs the excitation light 63 transmitted through the fourth lens 41 and emits fluorescence 65.

[0055] The fourth lens 41 allows the fluorescence 65 emitted by the phosphor 52 to pass through.

[0056] The second dichroic mirror 38 reflects light 64, other than the excitation light of the third lens 39, and the second light 62, allowing the fluorescence 65 that has passed through the fourth lens 41 to pass through.

[0057] The fifth lens 43 allows light 64 other than the excitation light reflected by the second dichroic mirror 38, the second light 62, and the fluorescence 65 that has passed through the second dichroic mirror 38 to pass through.

[0058] The light 64 (excluding the excitation light), the second light 62, and the fluorescence 65, which pass through the fifth lens 43, travel in the same optical path. Thus, the light 64 (excluding the excitation light), the second light 62, and the fluorescence 65 mix to generate the emitted light 21. The generated emitted light 21 is white light.

[0059] The substrate 51 has a circular plate shape.

[0060] The phosphor 52 has a ring-shaped shape. The phosphor 52 is disposed on the substrate 51. The central axis of the phosphor 52 is aligned with the central axis of the substrate 51.

[0061] Motor 44 causes phosphor wheel 42 to rotate circumferentially around its central axis. At the same time, motor 44 causes substrate 51 to rotate circumferentially around its central axis. Thus, motor 44 causes substrate 51 and phosphor 52 to rotate circumferentially around their respective central axes.

[0062] 1.3 Illumination Optical System

[0063] like Figure 1As shown, the illumination optical system 12 includes an integrator 71, a polarizing beam splitter 72, a field lens 73, a dichroic mirror 74, a field lens 75, a dichroic mirror 76, a relay lens 77, a reflector 78, a relay lens 79, a reflector 80, an optical modulation element 81, an optical modulation element 82, a field lens 83, a reflector 84, an optical modulation element 85, and a dichroic prism 86.

[0064] Integrator 71 makes the emitted light 21 transmit. At this time, integrator 71 makes the illuminance distribution of the emitted light 21 uniform.

[0065] The polarization beam splitter 72 allows the specific polarization component 91 contained in the outgoing light 21 that has passed through the integrator 71 to pass through.

[0066] The field lens 73 allows a specific polarization component 91 that has passed through the polarization beam splitter 72 to pass through.

[0067] The dichroic mirror 74 allows light 92, other than blue light, contained in a specific polarization component 91 that has passed through the field lens 73 to pass through, and reflects blue light 93 contained in that specific polarization component 91.

[0068] Field lens 75 allows light 92, other than blue light, to pass through dichroic mirror 74.

[0069] Dichroic mirror 76 allows red light 94, which is contained in light 92 other than blue light that has passed through field lens 75, to pass through, and reflects green light 95, which is contained in light 92 other than blue light.

[0070] The relay lens 77 allows the red light 94 that has passed through the dichroic mirror 76 to pass through.

[0071] Reflector 78 reflects the red light 94 that passes through relay lens 77.

[0072] The relay lens 79 allows the red light 94 reflected by the reflector 78 to pass through.

[0073] Reflector 80 reflects the red light 94 that passes through relay lens 79.

[0074] The light modulation element 81 uses the input signal to modulate the red light 94 reflected by the reflector 80 to generate red image light 96.

[0075] The light modulation element 82 uses the input signal to modulate the green light 95 reflected by the dichroic mirror 76 to generate green image light 97.

[0076] The field lens 83 allows the blue light 93 reflected by the dichroic mirror 74 to pass through.

[0077] The reflector 84 reflects the blue light 93 that passes through the field lens 83.

[0078] The light modulation element 85 uses the input signal to modulate the blue light 93 reflected by the reflector 84 to generate blue image light 98.

[0079] The light modulation elements 81, 82 and 85 are liquid crystal light modulation elements, etc.

[0080] The color separation prism 86 combines the red image light 96, green image light 97, and blue image light 98 generated by the light modulation element 81, light modulation element 82, and light modulation element 85 respectively to generate image light 22.

[0081] 1.4 Optical Unit

[0082] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the optical unit of the projector according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the optical unit of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0083] Light source 11 has Figures 2 to 5 The optical unit 101 shown.

[0084] The optical unit 101 constitutes an optical engine that generates outgoing light 21 from a first light 61, which is a first incident light, and a second light 62, which is a second incident light.

[0085] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the optical unit 101 includes a housing 111, a heat sink 112, a phosphor wheel 42, a motor 44, a cover 113, a plate 114, multiple optical components 115, and multiple retainers 116.

[0086] The housing 111 has a space 111a, a first inlet 111b, a second inlet 111c, and an outlet 111d.

[0087] Space 111a houses a fourth lens 41, a phosphor wheel 42, a motor 44, a cover 113, a plate 114, multiple optical components 115 and multiple retainers 116, and houses the substrate 51 and phosphor 52 of the phosphor wheel 42.

[0088] Space 111a extends from the outer surface of shell 111 in the +Z direction. Therefore, an opening 111e is formed on the outer surface of shell 111, and space 111a extends from opening 111e in the +Z direction. Thus, by moving a plate 114 or the like, housed in space 111a, from near the opening 111e in the +Z direction, the plate 114 or the like can be inserted from outside shell 111 into space 111a via opening 111e. Thus, plate 114 or the like can be housed in space 111a.

[0089] The first light 61, which becomes the first incident light, is incident on the first incident port 111b.

[0090] A first lens 32 is installed at the first entrance port 111b. Thus, the first light 61 passes through the first lens 32. The direction of incidence of the first light 61 is perpendicular to a specific direction, namely the +X direction.

[0091] The first entrance port 111b extends from the outer surface of the housing 111 to the space 111a. Thus, the first light 61 can reach the element housed in the space 111a.

[0092] The second incident light 62 is incident through the second incident port 111c. The direction of the second incident light 62 is perpendicular to a specific direction and opposite to the direction of the first incident light 61, i.e., the -X direction.

[0093] The second entrance 111c extends from the outer surface of the housing 111 to the space 111a. Thus, the second light 62 can reach the element housed in the space 111a.

[0094] A second lens 34 is installed at the second entrance port 111c. Thus, the second light 62 passes through the second lens 34.

[0095] The emitted light 21 is emitted from the emission port 111d. The direction in which the emitted light 21 is emitted is perpendicular to the direction of incidence of the first light 61 and the second light 62, i.e., the +Z direction.

[0096] A fifth lens 43 is installed at the exit port 111d. As a result, the outgoing light passes through the fifth lens 43.

[0097] The housing 111 has a lidless, box-like shape. Therefore, as... Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the housing 111 has a bottom wall 121 and a side wall 122.

[0098] The inner bottom surface 121a of the bottom wall 121 faces the space 111a in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. The inner bottom surface 121a of the bottom wall 121 faces the opposite direction to the specific direction, namely the -Z direction. An exit port 111d is formed in the bottom wall 121.

[0099] The sidewall 122 extends from the outer edge of the bottom wall 121 in the opposite direction to the -Z direction, reaching a position along the outer edge of the opening 111e. A first inlet 111b and a second inlet 111c are formed in the sidewall 122.

[0100] The inner surface 111f of the housing 111 faces the space 111a of the housing 111. The inner surface 111f includes the inner bottom surface 121a of the bottom wall 121 and the inner side surface 122a of the side wall 122.

[0101] The housing 111 has a first mounting surface 111g and a second mounting surface 111h. The first mounting surface 111g and the second mounting surface 111h face the opposite direction to a specific direction, namely the -Z direction. The first mounting surface 111g is disposed along the outer edge of the opening 111e of the housing 111. The second mounting surface 111h is contained within the inner surface 111f of the housing 111.

[0102] The heat sink 112 is a support that supports the fourth lens 41, the phosphor wheel 42, the motor 44, and the cover 113. The heat sink 112 supports the supported object directly or indirectly through an intermediary. The heat sink 112 releases heat emitted by the phosphor wheel 42 to the outside of the optical unit 101.

[0103] The heat sink 112 is mounted on the first mounting surface 111g of the housing 111. As a result, the heat sink 112 blocks the opening 111e of the housing 111.

[0104] The heat sink 112 abuts against the first mounting surface 111g of the housing 111 in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. Thus, the heat sink 112 is positioned relative to the housing 111 in the +Z direction. The heat sink 112, abutting against the first mounting surface 111g, contacts and is fixed to the first mounting surface 111g.

[0105] The heat sink 112 has a first surface 112a and a second surface 112b. The first surface 112a and the second surface 112b are located on opposite sides of each other. The first surface 112a faces the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. Therefore, the outer edge of the first surface 112a abuts against the first mounting surface 111g of the housing 111. The center of the first surface 112a faces the space 111a of the housing 111. The second surface 112b faces the opposite direction to the +Z direction, namely the -Z direction. Therefore, the second surface 112b faces the outside of the housing 111.

[0106] Fins 131 are formed on the second surface 112b of the radiator 112. Since the second surface 112b faces the outside of the housing 111, the radiator 112 can efficiently dissipate heat to the outside of the housing 111 by forming fins 131 on the second surface 112b.

[0107] A motor 44 is mounted on the first surface 112a of the heat sink 112. A substrate 51 is connected to the motor 44. A phosphor 52 is disposed on the substrate 51. Thus, the substrate 51 is connected to the heat sink 112 via the motor 44. Therefore, the substrate 51 is mounted on and supported on the first surface 112a. Furthermore, the phosphor 52 is connected to the first surface 112a via the substrate 51 and the motor 44. Therefore, the phosphor 52 is mounted on and supported on the first surface 112a.

[0108] Cover 113 covers motor 44 and phosphor wheel 42 and is mounted on the first surface 112a of radiator 112.

[0109] An entrance / exit port 113a is formed in the cover 113. Excitation light 63, reflected by the second dichroic mirror 38, enters the entrance / exit port 113a. Fluorescence 65 emitted by the phosphor 52 is emitted from the entrance / exit port 113a. A fourth lens 41 is mounted in the entrance / exit port 113a. Thus, the excitation light 63 reflected by the second dichroic mirror 38 and the fluorescence 65 emitted by the phosphor 52 pass through the fourth lens 41. In addition, the fourth lens 41 is connected to the heat sink 112 via the cover 113. Thus, the fourth lens 41 is mounted on and supported on the first surface 112a.

[0110] The heat sink 112, the cover 113 and the fourth lens 41 form a sealed space for housing the phosphor wheel 42 and the motor 44.

[0111] Plate 114 supports multiple optical components 115.

[0112] Plate 114 is mounted on the second mounting surface 111h of housing 111. Thus, plate 114 is mounted on housing 111 in a state of being received in space 111a of housing 111.

[0113] Plate 114 abuts against the second mounting surface 111h of housing 111 in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. Thus, plate 114 is positioned relative to housing 111 in the +Z direction. Plate 114, which abuts against the second mounting surface 111h, contacts and is fixed to the second mounting surface 111h.

[0114] Plate 114 has a flat plate shape. Therefore, plate 114 has a first main surface 114a and a second main surface 114b. The first main surface 114a and the second main surface 114b are located on opposite sides of each other. The first main surface 114a faces the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. Therefore, the outer edge of the first main surface 114a abuts against the second mounting surface 111h of the housing 111. The center of the first main surface 114a faces the inner bottom surface 121a of the bottom wall 121. The second main surface 114b faces the opposite direction, i.e., the -Z direction, which is opposite to the specific direction. Therefore, the second main surface 114b faces the opening 111e of the housing 111.

[0115] Multiple optical components 115 are mounted on plate 114. Multiple optical components 115 are mounted on the first main surface 114a of plate 114.

[0116] Multiple retainers 116 respectively hold multiple optical components 115. Multiple retainers 116 are mounted on plate 114. Multiple retainers 116 are mounted on the first main surface 114a of plate 114.

[0117] Multiple retainers 116 abut against the first main surface 114a of plate 114 in the -Z direction, which is opposite to the specific direction. Thus, the multiple retainers 116 are positioned relative to plate 114 in the +Z direction, which is the specific direction. Consequently, multiple optical components 115, each held by the multiple retainers 116, are also positioned relative to plate 114 in the +Z direction. Plate 114 is positioned relative to housing 111 in the +Z direction; therefore, the multiple retainers 116 and multiple optical components 115 are positioned relative to plate 114 in the +Z direction, and thus relative to housing 111 in the +Z direction. Thus, the multiple retainers 116 and multiple optical components 115 are also positioned relative to the elements positioned relative to housing 111 in the +Z direction. This improves the positional accuracy of the multiple retainers 116 and multiple optical components 115. The multiple retainers 116 abutting against the first main surface 114a are in contact with and fixed to the first main surface 114a.

[0118] After mounting the multiple retainers 116 onto the plate 114, the plate 114 is mounted onto the housing 111, thereby enabling the assembly of the optical unit 101. Here, the plate 114 has a simple flat plate shape. Therefore, it is easy to mount the multiple retainers 116 onto the plate 114. Additionally, it is also easy to mount the plate 114 onto the housing 111. Therefore, it is easy to assemble the optical unit 101.

[0119] 1.5 Positioning of the radiator relative to the housing

[0120] Figure 6 and Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the housing and heat sink of the projector according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and heat sink of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0121] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, the housing 111 has fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253 and 254. The heat sink 112 has sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263 and 264.

[0122] When the radiator 112 abuts against the housing 111, the sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263, and 264 abut against the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254, respectively. Thus, the radiator 112 is positioned relative to the housing 111 in the +Z direction (a specific direction) and in the +X and +Y directions (directions perpendicular to the specific direction). The sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263, and 264, which abut against the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254, are in contact with the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254.

[0123] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, the fifth positioning parts 251, 252, 253 and 254 each have a first protrusion 2501. The sixth positioning parts 261, 262, 263 and 264 each have a third protrusion 2601.

[0124] The first protrusion 2501 forms a base with a cylindrical shape. The first front end face 2501a of the first protrusion 2501 is flat and faces the opposite direction to the specific direction, i.e., the -Z direction. The third protrusion 2601 forms a base with a cylindrical shape. The third front end face 2601a of the third protrusion 2601 is flat and faces the +Z direction, which is the specific direction. The third front end face 2601a of the third protrusion 2601 of the sixth positioning parts 261, 262, 263 and 264 respectively abuts against the first front end face 2501a of the first protrusion 2501 of the fifth positioning parts 251, 252, 253 and 254. The third front end face 2601a makes surface contact with the abutting first front end face 2501a. Thus, the heat sink 112 is positioned relative to the housing 111 in the +Z direction. The third front surface 2601a, which abuts against the first front surface 2501a, is in contact with the first front surface 2501a.

[0125] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the fifth positioning parts 251 and 252 each have a first pin 2502. The sixth positioning parts 261 and 262 each have a first hole 2602.

[0126] The first pin 2502 and the first hole 2602 extend in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. The first pin 2502 of the fifth positioning parts 251 and 252 respectively engages with the first hole 2602 formed in the sixth positioning parts 261 and 262. Thus, the heat sink 112 is positioned relative to the housing 111 in the directions perpendicular to the specific direction, namely the +X direction and the +Y direction.

[0127] The fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253 and 254 are formed on the first mounting surface 111g of the housing 111. Therefore, the first protrusion 2501 and the first pin 2502 are also formed on the first mounting surface 111g.

[0128] The sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263 and 264 are formed on the outer edge of the first surface 112a of the radiator 112. Therefore, the third protrusion 2601 and the first hole 2602 are also formed on the outer edge of the first surface 112a.

[0129] A fifth through hole 2501b corresponding to the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254 is formed in the housing 111. A sixth through hole 2601b corresponding to the sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263, and 264 is formed in the radiator 112. The fifth through holes 2501b corresponding to the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254 are formed on the central axis of the first protrusion 2501 of the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254. The sixth through holes 2601b corresponding to the sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263, and 264 are formed on the central axis of the third protrusion 2601 of the sixth positioning portions 261, 262, 263, and 264. The sixth through holes 2601b corresponding to the sixth positioning parts 261, 262, 263, and 264 communicate with the fifth through holes 2501b corresponding to the fifth positioning parts 251, 252, 253, and 254, respectively. Screws for threaded fastening are inserted into the sixth through hole 2601b and the fifth through hole 2501b communicating with it. Thus, the radiator 112 is threadedly fastened to the housing 111.

[0130] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and heat sink of a projector according to a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0131] In a variation of the first embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, first holes 2602 are formed in the fifth positioning parts 251 and 252 respectively. The sixth positioning parts 261 and 262 are each equipped with a first pin 2502.

[0132] 1.6 Positioning of the plate relative to the shell

[0133] Figure 11 and Figure 12This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the housing, plate, multiple optical components, and multiple cages of the projector according to the first embodiment. Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and plate of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0134] like Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the housing 111 has first positioning portions 211, 212, 213 and 214. The plate 114 has second positioning portions 221, 222, 223 and 224.

[0135] When plate 114 abuts against housing 111, the second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224 abut against the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214, respectively. Thus, plate 114 is positioned relative to housing 111 in the +Z direction (a specific direction) and in the +X and +Y directions (directions perpendicular to the specific direction). The second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224, which abut against the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214, are in contact with the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214.

[0136] like Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the first positioning parts 211, 212, 213 and 214 each have a second protrusion 2101. The second positioning parts 221, 222, 223 and 224 each have a fourth protrusion 2201.

[0137] The second protrusion 2101 forms a base with a cylindrical shape. The second front end face 2101a of the second protrusion 2101 is flat and faces the opposite direction to the specific direction, i.e., the -Z direction. The fourth protrusion 2201 forms a base with a cylindrical shape. The fourth front end face 2201a of the fourth protrusion 2201 is flat and faces the +Z direction, which is the specific direction. The fourth front end face 2201a of the fourth protrusion 2201 of the second positioning parts 221, 222, 223 and 224 respectively abuts against the second front end face 2101a of the second protrusion 2101 of the first positioning parts 211, 212, 213 and 214. The fourth front end face 2201a makes surface contact with the abutting second front end face 2101a. As a result, the plate 114 is positioned relative to the housing 111 in the +Z direction. The fourth front surface 2201a, which abuts against the second front surface 2101a, is in contact with the second front surface 2101a.

[0138] like Figures 11 to 13 As shown, second holes 2102 are formed in the first positioning portions 211 and 212 respectively. The second positioning portions 221 and 222 are respectively provided with second pins 2202.

[0139] The second hole 2102 and the second pin 2202 extend in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. The second pins 2202 of the second positioning parts 221 and 222 respectively engage with the second holes 2102 formed in the first positioning parts 211 and 212. Thus, the plate 114 is positioned relative to the housing 111 in the directions perpendicular to the specific direction, namely the +X direction and the +Y direction.

[0140] First positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214 are formed on the second mounting surface 111h of the housing 111. Therefore, the second protrusion 2101 and the second hole 2102 are also formed on the second mounting surface 111h.

[0141] The second mounting surface 111h of the housing 111 is located at a position near the opening 111e, between the opening 111e of the housing 111 and the inner bottom surface 121a of the bottom wall 121. Therefore, the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214 formed on the second mounting surface 111h are located near the opening 111e, between the opening 111e and the inner bottom surface 121a. Thus, it is not necessary to insert tools or the like used to form the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214 near the inner bottom surface 121a. This facilitates the formation of the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214.

[0142] The second mounting surface 111h of the housing 111 forms a step included in the inner surface 111f of the housing 111. Therefore, the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213 and 214 formed on the second mounting surface 111h are formed on this step.

[0143] Second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224 are formed on the first main surface 114a of plate 114. Therefore, the fourth protrusion 2201 and the second pin 2202 are also formed on the first main surface 114a of plate 114.

[0144] The second positioning portions 221, 222, 223 and 224 are formed on the second mounting surface 111h included in the inner surface 111f of the housing 111. Therefore, the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213 and 214 that the second positioning portions 221, 222, 223 and 224 respectively abut against are formed on the outer edge of the first main surface 114a of the plate 114 along the inner surface 111f of the housing 111.

[0145] A first through hole 2101b corresponding to the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214 is formed in the housing 111. A second through hole 2201b corresponding to the second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224 is formed in the plate 114. The first through holes 2101b corresponding to the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214 are formed on the central axis of the second protrusion 2101 of the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214. The second through holes 2201b corresponding to the second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224 are formed on the central axis of the fourth protrusion 2201 of the second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224. The second through holes 2201b corresponding to the second positioning parts 221, 222, 223, and 224 and the first through holes 2101b corresponding to the first positioning parts 211, 212, 213, and 214 are respectively connected. Screws for threaded fastening are inserted into the second through holes 2201b and the first through holes 2101b connected to them. Thus, the plate 114 is threadedly fastened to the housing 111.

[0146] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the housing and plate of a projector in a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0147] In a variation of the first embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the first positioning portions 211 and 212 each have a second pin 2202. The second positioning portions 221 and 222 each have a second hole 2102.

[0148] 1.7 Positioning of the cage relative to the plate

[0149] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the plate, multiple optical components, and multiple cages included in the projector of the first embodiment. Figure 18 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the plate and holder included in the projector of the first embodiment.

[0150] like Figures 16 to 18 As shown, plate 114 has third positioning portions 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 and 236. Multiple retainers 116 have fourth positioning portions 241, 242, 243, 244, 245 and 246.

[0151] When the plurality of retainers 116 abut against the plate 114, the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246 respectively abut against the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236. Thus, the plurality of retainers 116 are positioned relative to the plate 114 in the +Z direction (a specific direction) and in the +X and +Y directions (directions perpendicular to the specific directions). The fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246, which abut against the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236, are in contact with the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236.

[0152] like Figures 16 to 18 As shown, the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 and 236 each have a protrusion 2301. The fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245 and 246 each have a protrusion 2401.

[0153] The protrusion 2301 forms a base with a cylindrical shape. The front end face 2301a of the protrusion 2301 is flat and faces the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. The protrusion 2401 forms a base with a cylindrical shape. The front end face 2401a of the protrusion 2401 is flat and faces the opposite direction, i.e., the -Z direction, which is opposite to the specific direction. The front end face 2401a of the protrusion 2401 of the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246 respectively abuts against the front end face 2301a of the protrusion 2301 of the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236. The front end face 2401a makes surface contact with the front end face 2301a it abuts against. As a result, the plurality of retainers 116 are positioned relative to the plate 114 in the +Z direction. The front surface 2401a abuts against the front surface 2301a and is in contact with the front surface 2301a.

[0154] like Figures 16 to 18 As shown, holes 2302 are formed in the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 and 236 respectively. The fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245 and 246 are provided with pins 2402 respectively.

[0155] Hole 2302 and pin 2402 extend in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction. The pin 2402 of the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245 and 246 respectively engage with the hole 2302 formed in the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 and 236. As a result, the plurality of retainers 116 are positioned relative to the plate 114 in the +X direction and the +Y direction, which are perpendicular to the specific direction.

[0156] Third positioning portions 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 and 236 are formed on the first main surface 114a of plate 114. Therefore, protrusion 2301 and hole 2302 are also formed on the first main surface 114a of plate 114.

[0157] A third through hole 2301b corresponding to the third positioning portions 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236 is formed in plate 114. A fourth through hole 2401b corresponding to the fourth positioning portions 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246 is formed in the plurality of retainers 116. The third through holes 2301b corresponding to the third positioning portions 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236 are respectively formed on the central axis of the protrusion 2301 provided in the third positioning portions 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236. Fourth through holes 2401b corresponding to the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246 are respectively formed on the central axis of the protrusions 2401 provided in the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246. The fourth through holes 2401b corresponding to the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246 communicate with the third through holes 2301b corresponding to the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236. Screws for threaded fastening are inserted into the fourth through holes 2401b and the third through holes 2301b communicating with them. As a result, the plurality of retainers 116 are threadedly fastened to the plate 114.

[0158] Figure 19 This is also a schematic cross-sectional view of the plate and cage of the projector in a modified example of the first embodiment.

[0159] In a variation of the first embodiment, such as Figure 19 As shown, the third positioning parts 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 and 236 are each equipped with a pin 2402. Holes 2302 are formed in the fourth positioning parts 241, 242, 243, 244, 245 and 246 respectively.

[0160] 1.8 Optical components and holders mounted on the plate

[0161] The plurality of optical components 115 mounted on the plate 114 include two or more optical components consisting of a reflector 35, a first dichroic mirror 36, a microlens array 37, a second dichroic mirror 38, a third lens 39, and a diffuser 40. These two or more optical components constitute an optical system that separates the first light 61, which is the first incident light, into an excitation light 63 and light 64 other than the excitation light, and mixes the fluorescence 65, the light 64 other than the excitation light, and the second light 62, which is the second incident light, to generate the outgoing light 21.

[0162] Alternatively, the second laser source 33, the second lens 34, and the reflector 35 can be omitted from the light source 11. When the second laser source 33, the second lens 34, and the reflector 35 are omitted from the light source 11, the optical system separates the first light 61, which is the first incident light, into an excitation light 63 and light 64 other than the excitation light, and mixes the fluorescence 65 and the light 64 other than the excitation light to generate the outgoing light 21.

[0163] Multiple optical components 115 include a first dichroic mirror 36, a microlens array 37, a second dichroic mirror 38, a third lens 39, and a diffuser 40 that transmit or reflect the first light 61 and the second light 62. Additionally, multiple optical components 115 include a reflector 35 specifically for reflecting the second light 62.

[0164] A first dichroic mirror 36, a microlens array 37, a second dichroic mirror 38, a third lens 39, and a diffuser 40 are arranged in the +X direction, which allows the first light 61 to pass through or be reflected. To reflect the second light 62 towards the first dichroic mirror 36, a reflector 35 is positioned in the +X direction, overlapping the position where the first dichroic mirror 36 is positioned. However, to avoid interference with the first light 61, the reflector 35 is positioned differently from the position where the first dichroic mirror 36 is positioned in the +Y direction, which is perpendicular to the direction of incidence of the first light 61.

[0165] The plurality of holders 116 mounted on the plate 114 include holders 335, 336, 337, 338, 339 and 340 respectively holding the reflector 35, the first dichroic mirror 36, the microlens array 37, the second dichroic mirror 38, the third lens 39 and the diffuser plate 40.

[0166] Each of the retainers 335, 336, 337, 339 and 340 has a rectangular shape. Each retainer is mounted on the first main surface 114a such that the long side of the rectangular shape is perpendicular to the first main surface 114a of the plate 114 and the short side of the rectangular shape is parallel to the first main surface 114a of the plate 114.

[0167] 1.9 Advantages of positioning via a plate

[0168] The plate 114, with its simple flat shape, is easier to manufacture and process than the shell 111, which has a complex, open-top box shape. Furthermore, the plate 114, with its simple flat shape, requires higher precision to manufacture and process than the shell 111, which has a complex, open-top box shape. Therefore, when multiple retainers 116 are indirectly positioned relative to the shell 111 via the plate 114, the positioning structure can be more easily formed compared to the case where multiple retainers 116 are directly positioned relative to the shell 111, thus improving the accuracy of the positioning structure.

[0169] As described above, the plurality of optical components 115 include a reflector 35 and a first dichroic mirror 36 that overlap each other in the direction of the first light 61 incident, i.e., in the +X direction.

[0170] When multiple optical components 115 include two or more optical components that overlap each other in the +X direction (the direction in which the first light 61 is incident), the operation of installing the two or more retainers that hold the two or more optical components in the housing with their long sides facing the -Y direction becomes complicated. Furthermore, the long sides of the rectangular shapes of the two or more retainers extend in the +Y direction. Therefore, the two or more retainers are spaced far apart. Consequently, the optical unit 101 becomes larger.

[0171] On the other hand, when the plurality of optical components 115 include two or more optical components that overlap each other in the +X direction, the operation of mounting the two or more retainers that hold the two or more optical components toward the -Z direction becomes simple. Furthermore, the long side of the rectangular shape of the two or more retainers extends in the +Z direction. Therefore, the two or more retainers can be brought close together. Thus, the optical unit 101 can be miniaturized.

[0172] 1.10 Advantages of concentrating the second and third positioning parts on the first main surface of the plate

[0173] Second positioning portions 221, 222, 223, and 224 for positioning plate 114 relative to housing 111, and third positioning portions 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, and 236 for positioning multiple retainers 116 relative to plate 114, are concentrated on the first main surface 114a of plate 114. Therefore, compared to the case where these positioning portions are dispersed on the first main surface 114a and second main surface 114b of plate 114, these positioning portions can be formed more easily, and the forming accuracy of these positioning portions can be improved.

[0174] 1.11 Advantages of the radiator and plate having the same contact direction with the housing

[0175] Both the heat sink 112 and the plate 114 abut against the housing 111 in the +Z direction, which is a specific direction, thereby being positioned relative to the housing 111. Therefore, the fifth positioning portions 251, 252, 253, and 254 formed on the housing 111 for positioning the heat sink 112 relative to the housing 111, and the first positioning portions 211, 212, 213, and 214 for positioning the plate 114 relative to the housing 111, can all be machined in the direction opposite to the specific direction, i.e., the -Z direction. As a result, compared to the case where these positioning portions must be machined in mutually different directions, these positioning portions can be formed more easily, and the forming accuracy of these positioning portions in the +Z direction can be improved.

[0176] 1.12 Sealing of the casing

[0177] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the light source, illumination optical system, and elastomer of the projector according to the first embodiment.

[0178] like Figure 20 As shown, the light source 11 includes a first elastic body 401, a second elastic body 402, a third elastic body 403, and a fourth elastic body 404.

[0179] The first elastic body 401 is held between the housing 111 and the heat sink 112. The first elastic body 401 is held by a first mounting surface 111g along the outer edge of the opening 111e of the housing 111 and a first surface 112a of the heat sink 112. The first elastic body 401 has an annular shape and is configured to surround the opening 111e when viewed from above. Thus, the heat sink 112 and the first elastic body 401 seal the opening 111e.

[0180] The second elastic body 402 is held between the first laser source 31 and the housing 111. The second elastic body 402 has an annular shape and is arranged to surround the first entrance port 111b when viewed from above. Thus, the first laser source 31 and the second elastic body 402 seal the first entrance port 111b.

[0181] The third elastic body 403 is held between the second laser source 33 and the housing 111. The third elastic body 403 has an annular shape and is configured to surround the second entrance port 111c when viewed from above. Thus, the second laser source 33 and the third elastic body 403 seal the second entrance port 111c.

[0182] The fourth elastomer 404 is held between the illumination optics system 12 and the housing 111. The fourth elastomer 404 has an annular shape and is configured to surround the exit port 111d when viewed from above. Thus, the illumination optics system 12 and the fourth elastomer 404 seal the exit port 111d.

[0183] Therefore, the housing 111 has a dustproof structure. Thus, the housing 111 prevents dust from adhering to the housed plate 114, multiple optical components 115, multiple retainers 116, fourth lens 41, phosphor wheel 42, and cover 113.

[0184] This disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be replaced with structures that are substantially the same as those shown in the above-described embodiments, structures that have the same effect, or structures that can achieve the same purpose.

Claims

1. A light source, characterized in that, have: case; The support body abuts against the housing in a specific direction; The plate, facing the specific direction, abuts against the housing; A phosphor, supported on the support, absorbs excitation light and emits fluorescence; A lens, supported on the support, allows the excitation light and the fluorescence to pass through; and Multiple optical components are mounted on the plate.

2. The light source according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has an opening and a space extending from the opening in the specific direction. The support body blocks the opening. The plate, the phosphor, the lens, and the plurality of optical components are housed in the space.

3. The light source according to claim 2, characterized in that, The light source includes an elastic body that is held between the housing and the support. The support and the elastic body seal the opening.

4. The light source according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing has an inner surface facing the space, and a first mounting surface oriented in a direction opposite to the specific direction and disposed along the outer edge of the opening, and a second mounting surface oriented in the opposite direction and contained within the inner surface. The support body is mounted on the first mounting surface. The plate is mounted on the second mounting surface.

5. The light source according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner surface includes an inner bottom surface that faces the space laterally in a specific direction. The second mounting surface is located at a position closer to the opening than the middle of the opening and the inner bottom surface.

6. The light source according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The housing includes: a first protrusion having a first front end face facing a direction opposite to the specific direction; and a second protrusion having a second front end face facing the opposite direction. The support body has a third protrusion, which has a third front end surface facing the specific direction and abutting against the first front end surface. The plate has a fourth protrusion, which has a fourth front end face facing the specific direction and abutting against the second front end face.

7. The light source according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, A first hole extending in the specific direction is formed in one of the housing and the support. The other of the housing and the support body has a first pin that extends in the specific direction and engages with the first hole. A second hole extending in the specific direction is formed in one of the housing and the plate. The other of the housing and the plate has a second pin that extends in the specific direction and engages with the second hole.

8. The light source according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The support has a surface facing the specific direction. The phosphor and the lens are mounted on the surface. The plate has a main surface facing the specific direction. The plurality of optical components are mounted on the main surface.

9. The light source according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The plate has a main surface facing the specific direction. The light source has a retainer that holds the optical components included in the plurality of optical components. The retainer is mounted on the main surface and has a rectangular shape, the rectangular shape having a long side perpendicular to the main surface and a short side parallel to the main surface.

10. The light source according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The plurality of optical components include two or more optical components constituting an optical system, which separates incident light into excitation light and light other than excitation light, and mixes the fluorescence and the light to generate outgoing light.

11. The light source according to claim 10, characterized in that, The housing has an opening and a space extending from the opening in the specific direction. The housing includes: a bottom wall having an inner bottom surface facing the space in the specific direction; and sidewalls, extending from the bottom wall in the opposite direction to the specific direction. An entrance port for the incident light to enter is formed in the sidewall. An emission port is formed on the bottom wall for the emitted light to exit.

12. The light source according to claim 10, characterized in that, The incident light is the first incident light. The optical system mixes the fluorescence, the light, and the second incident light to generate the emitted light.

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