Distance-based focus assist function for projection optics

Abstract

Device, including: an optical assembly (400) for projecting a light beam (202) generated by a first light source onto a projection surface (230), wherein the optical assembly is movable relative to the projection surface and comprises a first lens, a second lens and a third lens arranged along an optical axis (402) of the optical assembly, wherein the second lens and the third lens are independently movable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; a distance measuring device (220) configured to provide a measurement of a distance between the optical assembly and the projection surface, wherein the distance measuring device is movable together with the optical assembly; and a control circuit (600) configured to determine an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the light beam is sharply focused on the projection surface, wherein the estimated position is determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the second lens; wherein the distance measuring device (220) and the optical assembly (400) are together movable with respect to the projection surface (230).

Description

AREA

[0001] Various embodiments generally concern light sources, and more specifically, but not exclusively, the automated control of certain functions of a moving lighting device. BACKGROUND

[0002] A typical lighting fixture has at least one control function to make the projected beam wider or narrower, and in some cases, sharper or softer. In some designs, a focus knob on the fixture is configured to move the lamp and reflector relative to the lens(es) fixed to a stationary base. In other designs, a focus knob on the fixture is configured to move the lens(es) while the lamp remains stationary. SUMMARY

[0003] This document discloses, among other things, various examples, aspects, features, and embodiments of a lighting system capable of providing an automated focus assist function for a moving illuminator. In one example, a distance measuring device connected to the moving illuminator is operated to measure a distance to the projection surface and sends the measurement to an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit uses the measurement and a suitable algorithm to determine a focus parameter value for the projection optics. The determined focus parameter value is encoded into a control signal, which is then used to instruct a motor to move the corresponding component (e.g., the projector).to move a lens or lens group of the projection optics, thereby focusing and / or maintaining a sharp focus on a relevant edge of the illuminated area on the projection surface. An exemplary method for an automated focus assist function supports batch programming of inset characters, a one-time focus assist function, and a continuous focus assist function. Advantageously, at least some embodiments result in a more manageable programming burden for the operator of the lighting system, and / or they do not rely substantially on human intervention for the focus assist function.

[0004] An example provides a device comprising: an optical assembly for projecting a beam of light generated by a first light source onto a projection surface, the optical assembly being movable relative to the projection surface and comprising a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the optical assembly, the second lens and the third lens being independently movable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; a distance-measuring device configured to provide a measurement of a distance between the optical assembly and the projection surface, the distance-measuring device being movable together with the optical assembly;and a control circuit configured to determine an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the light beam is sharply focused on the projection surface, the estimated position being determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the second lens.

[0005] Another example provides a method for providing a focus assist function for a light source, wherein the method comprises: obtaining, with an electronic processor, a first parameter value representing an axial position of a second lens in an optical assembly comprising a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the optical assembly, wherein the second lens and the third lens are independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; obtaining, with the electronic processor, a measurement of a distance between the light source and a projection surface;and determining, with the electronic processor, a second parameter value representing an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the illuminator is sharply focused on the projection surface, the second parameter value being determined based on the measurement and further based on the first parameter value.

[0006] Yet another example provides a non-temporary, computer-readable medium that stores instructions which, when executed by at least one processor, cause that at least one processor to perform operations that include the above procedure for providing a focus assist function for a lighting fixture.

[0007] Yet another example provides a lighting system comprising: a first lighting body comprising a first optical assembly configured to project a first beam of light onto a projection surface, the first optical assembly being rotatable relative to the projection surface and comprising a first lens, a second lens and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the first optical assembly, the second lens and the third lens being independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis of the first optical assembly relative to the first lens;a first distance measuring device mounted on a first pan-tilt device and configured to provide a measurement of a distance between the first distance measuring device and the projection surface, wherein the first distance measuring device is rotatable relative to the projection surface by actuating the first pan-tilt device, and wherein the first distance measuring device and the first optical assembly are rotatable independently of each other; and a control circuit configured to determine an estimated position of the third lens by which an edge of an area illuminated by the first light beam is focused sharply on the projection surface, wherein the estimated position is determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the second lens in the first optical assembly.

[0008] Another example provides a method for providing a focus assist function for a rotatable illuminator, the method comprising: receiving, with an electronic control unit, a first distance measurement from a first rotatable range-measuring device; obtaining, with the electronic control unit, first values ​​representing the pan and tilt angles of the first rotatable range-measuring device, and second values ​​representing the pan and tilt angles of the rotatable illuminator; calculating, with the electronic control unit, an estimated projection distance value for the rotatable illuminator based on the first distance measurement, the first values, and the second values; and transmitting, with the electronic control unit, the estimated projection distance value to an electronic processor.

[0009] Yet another example provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium that stores instructions which, when executed by at least one processor, cause that at least one processor to perform operations including the above method for providing a focus assist function for a rotatable light source.

[0010] Other aspects of the revelation will become readily apparent from the detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram depicting a lighting device, at least some embodiments of which are implemented in practice. Fig. Figure 2 is a block diagram depicting a lighting system that includes the lighting fixture made of Fig. 1 according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 3 is a block diagram depicting an optical distance measuring device integrated into the lighting system. Fig. 2 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 4 is a block diagram depicting an optical assembly that is contained in the lighting fixture. Fig. 1 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective schematic view depicting an optomechanical assembly that is contained in the lighting fixture. Fig. 1 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 6 is a block diagram depicting a control circuit used in the lighting system. Fig. 2 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer device that is part of the lighting system. Fig. 2 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart of an automated focus assistance function procedure that is implemented in the lighting system. Fig. 2 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram depicting an optical model used in the automated focus assist function procedure. Fig. 8 is used according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a diagram depicting an analysis of a ray transfer matrix used to generate program code that implements the optical model. Fig. 9, as illustrated by an example. Fig. Figure 11 is a graphic that shows a configuration space of the optical assembly. Fig. 4 illustrates this with some examples. Fig. 12 is a flowchart of a control procedure used in the lighting system. Fig. 2 is used according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating a lighting system according to some additional embodiments. Fig. Figure 14 is a flowchart of an automated procedure for estimating a projection distance value in the lighting system from Fig. 13 according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Some stage lighting fixtures can be dynamically adjusted to redirect the beam of light on stage according to a creative intention. In some cases, horizontal movement (swivel) and vertical movement (tilt) of the beam are possible. In some additional cases, the fixture itself can also be moved relative to the projection surface (e.g., an illuminated portion of the stage or a light show environment). Movable fixtures are available in numerous different types and configurations, including spotlights, wash lights, beams, and hybrid designs. Some movable fixtures also feature color-changing capabilities, gobo patterns, barn doors, shutters, and / or other features and functions.

[0012] Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a lighting fixture 100, with which at least some embodiments can be implemented in practice. The lighting fixture 100 is a movable lighting fixture comprising, among other things, a housing 102, one or more light sources 104, a frame 106, a base 108, a first stepper motor 110, a second stepper motor 112, a first magnetic position sensor 114, a second magnetic position sensor 116, and an electronic control unit 122. In various examples, the one or more light sources 104 comprise one or more incandescent or light-emitting diode (LED) light sources that are suitably positioned within the housing 102. The first stepper motor 110 is operatively coupled to the housing 102 such that the first stepper motor 110 rotates the housing 102 about a first axis of rotation 124.The second stepper motor 112 is operationally coupled to the housing 102, such that the second stepper motor 112 rotates the housing 102 about a second axis of rotation 126. In some embodiments, the second axis of rotation 126 is orthogonal to the first axis of rotation 124.

[0013] At the in Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the first stepper motor 110 is configured to exert a torque on a first output shaft 128. A first pulley 130 is mounted on the first output shaft 128 for rotation. The first pulley 130 is coupled to a second pulley 132 via a first belt 134 to transmit torque between them. The second pulley 132 is mounted on a first shaft 136 for rotation. The first shaft 136 is rigidly coupled to the housing 102, so that the housing 102 and the first shaft 136 rotate together around the first axis of rotation 124. The housing 102 is also rigidly coupled to a second shaft 138, so that the second shaft 138, the housing 102, and the first shaft 136 all rotate together around the first axis of rotation 124.

[0014] At the in Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the second stepper motor 112 is configured to exert a torque on a second output shaft 140. A third pulley 142 is mounted on the second output shaft 140 for rotation. The third pulley 142 is coupled to a fourth pulley 144 via a second belt 146 to transmit torque between them. The fourth pulley 144 is rigidly coupled to a third shaft 148. The third shaft 148 is rigidly coupled to the base 108. During operation, the second stepper motor 112 exerts a torque on the fourth pulley 144 (via the second output shaft 140, the third pulley 142, and the second belt 146), causing the frame 106 to rotate about the second axis of rotation 126.The housing 102 is coupled to the frame 106 via the first shaft 136 and the second shaft 138, so that the housing 102 rotates with the frame 106 around the second axis of rotation 126. A fourth shaft 150 is rigidly coupled to the frame 106, so that the fourth shaft 150, the frame 106, and the housing 102 all rotate together around the second axis of rotation 126. The fourth shaft 150 extends partially along the second axis of rotation 126 into the base 108. A fifth pulley 152 is rigidly mounted on the fourth shaft 150, so that the fifth pulley 152, the fourth shaft 150, the frame 106, and the housing 102 all rotate together around the second axis of rotation 126. The fifth pulley 152 is coupled to a sixth pulley 154 via a third belt 156 in order to transmit a torque between them.

[0015] The first magnetic position encoder 114 is configured to measure the angular position of the housing 102 around the first axis of rotation 124. The first magnetic position encoder 114 includes, among other things, a first magnet 158 ​​and a first magnetic position sensor 160. In the Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the first magnet 158 ​​is fixedly mounted to one end of the second shaft 138, so that the first magnet 158, the second shaft 138, the housing 102, and the first shaft 136 all rotate together around the first axis of rotation 124. The first magnetic position sensor 160 is fixedly mounted to the frame 106 via a first circuit board 162. In some embodiments, the first magnet 158 ​​is fixedly mounted to one end of the first shaft 136, so that the first magnet 158, the first shaft 136, and the housing 102 all rotate together around the first axis of rotation 124. Alternatively, in some embodiments the first magnetic position sensor 160 is fixedly mounted at one end of the first shaft 136 or the second shaft 138, so that the first magnetic position sensor 160, the first shaft 136, the second shaft 138 and the housing 102 all rotate together around the first axis of rotation 124.In such embodiments, the first magnet 158 ​​is, for example, firmly mounted to the frame 106 via the first circuit board 162.

[0016] When the base 108 is oriented such that the second axis of rotation 126 is vertical (i.e., essentially parallel to the gravity vector), rotation of the frame 106 about the second axis of rotation 126 produces a pivoting motion of the light beam emitted by the illuminator 100. With the base 108 oriented in the same way, rotation of the housing 102 about the first axis of rotation 124 produces a tilting motion of the light beam emitted by the illuminator 100. In some embodiments, the base 108 is fixedly attached to a movable frame, which may provide one, two, or three degrees of freedom for moving the entire illuminator 100 relative to a stationary projection surface onto which the emitted light beam is projected.

[0017] The electronic control unit 122 comprises a variety of electrical and electronic components that provide power, operational control, and protection for the components, blocks, and modules within the lighting body 100. An exemplary computer device that can be used to implement the electronic control unit 122 in at least some embodiments is described below with reference to Fig. 7 is described in more detail. During operation, the electronic control unit 122 controls the orientation of the housing 102 relative to the base 108 via the first stepper motor 110 and the second stepper motor 112. The electronic control unit 122 is operationally coupled to the first stepper motor 110 and the second stepper motor 112 to provide them with one or more control signals. In various configurations, the electronic control unit 122 generates the one or more control signals by executing program code or in response to executable instructions received from an external electronic control unit. Some embodiments of the lighting body 100 and / or the electronic control unit 122 may benefit from at least some features disclosed in U.S. Patent US 10,274,175 B1, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety for reference.

[0018] Fig. Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a lighting system 200 according to one embodiment. The lighting system 200 comprises the lighting fixture 100, which was previously described with reference to Fig. 1 was described. It should be noted that Fig. 2 shows a side view of the lighting 100, whereas Fig. Figure 1 shows a front view. The directional difference between the side and front views shown is approximately 90 degrees. In the Fig. In the view shown in Figure 2, the first axis of rotation 124 is orthogonal to the plane of the block diagram, and the second axis of rotation 126 is parallel to the plane of the block diagram.

[0019] In operation, the lighting fixture 100 projects a light beam 202 onto a projection surface 230. A rotation of the housing 102 about the first axis of rotation 124 causes a tilting movement of the light beam 202 and a corresponding vertical movement of an illuminated area 204 along the projection surface 230. A rotation of the frame 106 about the second axis of rotation 126 causes a swiveling movement of the light beam 202 and a corresponding horizontal movement of the illuminated area 204 along the projection surface 230. The lower and upper edges of the illuminated area 204 are in Fig. 2, marked using reference numerals 206 and 208 respectively. In different examples, the periphery of the illuminated area 204 has different geometric shapes. In a representative example, the periphery of the illuminated area 204 may have a circular, elliptical, or irregular shape. In some examples, the illuminated area 204 has internal edges in addition to the peripheral edges 206 and 208. The shape of the internal edges of the illuminated area 204 is typically determined by the shape of a gobo used with the projection optics of the illuminator 100.

[0020] In some applications, the creative intent requires that the peripheral and / or internal edges of the illuminated area 204 be relatively sharp, e.g., exhibiting a short distance over which the light intensity transitions between a high (e.g., full) light intensity and a low light intensity (e.g., essentially zero). The sharpness of the edges can typically be modified by appropriately adjusting the configuration of the projection optics of the illuminator 100. An internal or peripheral edge of the illuminated area 204 is said to be "sharp" if that edge has approximately the shortest light-to-dark transition distance achievable by adjusting the projection optics of the illuminator 100. An internal or peripheral edge of the illuminated area 204 is said to be "blurry" if its light-to-dark transition distance is substantially (e.g.,by a factor of three or more) greater than the shortest achievable transition distance from light to dark.

[0021] In typical theater stage and light show environments, the projection surface 230 has a non-planar, multiplanar, curved, and / or relatively complex topology. In such environments, when the light beam 202 is tilted and / or swiveled, e.g., as described previously, various edges of the illuminated area 204 can become blurred, and appropriate adjustments to the projection optics of the lighting fixture 100 are necessary to sharpen these edges. If the movements of the light beam 202 are relatively dynamic (e.g., frequent and / or have a relatively high angular velocity), such adjustments to the projection optics of the lighting fixture 100 must also be dynamic. However, some conventional approaches to making such adjustments require relatively extensive human intervention and / or a relatively high programming load.For example, some programming solutions are based on previously recorded, detailed and accurate depth maps of the corresponding theatre stage or light show environment, which can be quite time-consuming to generate.

[0022] The aforementioned problems, and possibly some other related prior art problems, can be advantageously addressed using at least some of the embodiments disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a distance measuring device 220, mounted on the housing 102 of the lighting fixture 100, is operated to measure a distance (projection distance) to the projection surface 230 and sends a corresponding stream of measurements to a responsible control entity. In one embodiment, the responsible control entity is implemented using at least some control circuits of the lighting fixture 100 and the control console 210. The responsible control entity uses the measurements to determine focus parameter values ​​for the projection optics of the lighting fixture 100.The specified focus parameter values ​​are encoded into corresponding control signals, which are sent to the appropriate control card(s) of the motors configured to move suitable elements of the projection optics. The control card(s) then actuate(s) the motors according to the received control signals, thereby focusing and / or maintaining the relevant edge(s) of the illuminated area 204 in sharp focus. Advantageously, at least some embodiments result in a manageable programming burden for the operator of the lighting system 200 and / or do not rely substantially on human intervention for the focus assist function.

[0023] In one embodiment, the distance measuring device 220 is configured to accurately measure the distance to the projection surface 230 when the distance is in the range between approximately 1 m and approximately 300 m. In some examples, the distance measuring device 220 is or includes an optical distance measuring device. In some other examples, the distance measuring device 220 is or includes a different (i.e., non-optical) type of distance measuring device. Exemplary non-optical distance measuring devices that can be used to implement the distance measuring device 220 are described in more detail below. For the purpose of illustration and without implied limitations, the lighting system 200 is described with reference to an embodiment in which the distance measuring device 220 is an optical distance measuring device.From the description provided, the person skilled in the art can create and use other embodiments of the lighting system 200 in the relevant field without unnecessary experimentation, in which the distance measuring device 220 is a non-optical distance measuring device.

[0024] In some examples, the distance measuring device 220 is operated using acoustic or ultrasonic pulses or waveforms and is configured to accurately measure the distance to the projection surface 230 when the distance is in the range between approximately 0.5 m and approximately 15 m. In such examples, the measuring device 220 is designed to perform distance measurements using a suitable acoustic or ultrasonic distance measurement method. In various examples, the acoustic or ultrasonic distance measurement methods implemented in the operating stages of the ultrasonic distance measuring device 220 are selected from (i) time-of-flight (TOF) pulse measurement, (ii) multi-frequency continuous wave (MFCW) measurement, (iii) binary frequency shift keying (BFSK) measurement, and (iv) amplitude modulation (AM) measurement.The physical principles and signal processing considerations for this and other acoustic or ultrasonic distance measurement methods are discussed, for example, in the publication by Qiu Z, Lu Y, and Qiu Z, "Review of Ultrasonic Ranging Methods and Their Current Challenges," Micromachines (Basel), March 26, 2022; Vol. 13, No. 4, p. 520, which is hereby incorporated in full for reference. Some embodiments of the acoustic or ultrasonic distance measurement device 220 may benefit from at least some features disclosed, for example, in US patents US 3,577,144 A and US 4,580,251 A, both of which are hereby incorporated in full for reference.

[0025] In several examples, the optical distance measuring device 220 is designed to perform distance measurements using various suitable optical distance measuring methods. In some examples, the optical distance measuring methods implemented in the operating stages of the optical distance measuring device 220 are selected from (i) triangulation, (ii) pulsed time-of-flight (TOF), (iii) amplitude-modulated TOF, (iv) frequency-modulated continuous-wave TOF, and (v) laser interferometry. The physical principles of these and other optical distance measuring methods are discussed, for example, in the publication by Garry Berkovic and Ehud Shafir, "Optical Methods for Distance and Displacement Measurements," Advances in Optics and Photonics, 2012, Vol. 4, pp. 441–471, which is hereby adopted in its entirety for reference.In some examples, the optical distance measuring device 220 is a lidar distance measuring sensor configured to take distance measurements using visible or infrared light. Some embodiments of the optical distance measuring device 220 may benefit from at least some features disclosed, for example, in U.S. patents 8,994,925 B2 and 9,335,403 B2, both of which are hereby incorporated in full for reference.

[0026] In various examples, the optical distance measuring device 220 is operated to send an optical probe beam 222 towards the projection surface 230. The transverse size of the optical probe beam 222 is typically smaller than the size of the illuminated area 204. The relative optical alignment of the optical distance measuring device 220 and the projection optics of the illuminator 100 is such that the optical probe beam 222 strikes a selected part of the illuminated area 204. For example, in some relative optical alignments, the optical probe beam 222 is directed to strike the illuminated area 204 near a peripheral edge of the same, such as edge 204 or 206. In some other relative optical alignments, the optical probe beam 222 is directed to strike the illuminated area 204 in a central section of the same, e.g.,close to an internal gobo-generated edge. The probe beam 222 is reflected by the projection surface 230 in the illuminated area 204 thereof, and a section 224 of the reflected optical beam is detected by an optical detector used in the optical distance measuring device 220 (see also ). Fig. 3) The electrical signal generated by the optical detector is processed, for example, as described in more detail below, to determine the distance to the projection surface 230 or to perform a suitable measurement of it. The measurement result is then communicated to the aforementioned responsible control entity.

[0027] The control console 210 is a multifunctional electronic control unit configured to control various functions and features of the lighting fixture 100 using one or more DMX channels 212. Typically, the control console 210 is also connected via other DMX channels to several additional lighting fixtures located in the same theater stage or light show environment as the lighting fixture 100 (see, for example, Fig. 13) Some of these additional lighting fixtures may be similar to the lighting fixture 100, whereas some others may be of a fixed type. Representative controllable functions / features of the lighting fixtures to which the control console 210 is connected include, without limitation, pan, tilt, and pan movements; color(s) of the emitted light; intensity of the emitted light; optical zoom; optical focus; optical plane; gobo use; iris changes; image setting apertures; use of optical prisms; and relative and absolute time adjustment of various control operations affecting these functions / features. In a typical example, the control console 210 is located in a control room, booth, or cabinet and remains stationary therein for the duration of the performance or light show.In contrast, the position and / or orientation of the lighting fixture 100 relative to the control room, stand, or cabinet can change during the performance or light show according to the creative intent. In some examples, the projection surface 230 is stationary. In other examples, the projection surface 230 moves, changes its shape, or is otherwise reconfigured during the performance or light show, e.g., according to the creative intent.

[0028] Fig. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the optical distance measuring device 220 according to some embodiments. In the example shown, the optical distance measuring device 220 comprises an electronic control unit 310, a driver circuit 330, a light source (e.g., a laser) 340, and an optical receiver 350. The electronic control unit 310 comprises a processor 312 and a memory 314.

[0029] During operation, the electronic control unit 310 provides instructions 316 for the driver circuit 330, based on which one or more driver signals (currents and / or voltages) 332 are generated for the light source 340. The driver signals 332 cause the light source 340 to generate an optical output signal 342, with at least one segment of it being emitted as the optical probe beam 222. In some examples, the driver signals 332 cause the optical output beam 342 to carry one or more optical pulses, an amplitude-modulated optical waveform, or a frequency-modulated optical waveform. In some examples, an optical beam splitter 344 is arranged at the optical output terminal of the light source 340 to divide the optical output beam 342 into two segments, with a first segment serving as an optical reference signal for the optical receiver 350.In some examples, the optical reference signal 346 carries less than 10% of the optical energy of the optical output beam 342. In some examples, the optical beam splitter 344 is missing.

[0030] The optical receiver 350 is operated to generate an electrical signal 352 in response to the optical beam 224 received from the projection surface 230, as previously described. In some examples, the reflected optical beam 224 is optically mixed with the optical reference signal 346 before undergoing an opto-electrical (O / E) conversion in the optical receiver 350. Such optical mixing is typically used in coherent detection methods where time-of-flight (TOF) parameters can be derived from the relative phase and / or frequency of the optical beams 222 and 224. For example, if the optical probe beam 222 is linearly chirped, an optical signal generated by optically mixing the optical signals 224 and 346 will contain a mixing frequency proportional to the round-trip time of the light between the optical distance measuring device 220 and the projection surface 230.

[0031] In some examples, the electrical signal 352 undergoes an analog-to-digital conversion. The resulting digital form of the electrical signal 352 is processed by the processor 312, which executes program code stored in the memory 314. This program code causes the processor 312 to calculate the distance between the optical distance measuring device 220 and the projection surface 230, or to perform a suitable measurement thereof. The calculated distance or measurement is then sent by the electronic control unit 310 to the relevant control entity via a communication channel 302.

[0032] Fig. Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating an optical assembly 400 used in the lighting body 100 according to some embodiments. In some examples, the optical assembly 400 is mounted in the housing 102 and includes an LED light source 410. The light emitted by the LED light source 410 is processed in the optical assembly 400 as shown in Figure 4. Fig. The light beam 202 is formed as shown in the ray tracing diagram 4 and is emitted via an output lens 450 to form the light beam 202. The optical elements located between the LED light source 410 and the output lens 450 comprise a focusing lens group 430 and a zoom lens group 440. The LED light source 410 and the output lens 450 have fixed positions in the housing 102. The focusing lens group 430 and the zoom lens group 440 are movable relative to the housing 102, as indicated by the double arrows 432 and 442, respectively. In one embodiment, the movement indicated by the double arrows 432 and 442 is a displacement along an optical axis 402 of the optical assembly 400. In some embodiments, the optical assembly 400 may include additional optical elements (in Fig. 4 not explicitly shown). In additional embodiments of the optical assembly 400, other suitable arrangements of various optical elements can also be used.

[0033] Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective schematic top view depicting an optomechanical assembly 500 used in the lighting body 100 according to some embodiments. The optomechanical assembly 500 allows controllable independent displacements of the focus lens group 430 and the zoom lens group 440 along the optical axis of the optical assembly 400. The displacements are performed along an optical rail 504, which is mounted on a base plate 502 of the assembly 500 and oriented to be parallel to the optical axis 402 of the optical assembly 400 (see also Fig. 4).

[0034] The optomechanical assembly 500 comprises a first motor 510, which is mounted on the base plate 502, which is part of the housing 102. An actuator rod 512 of the motor 510 is connected to a conventional optical slide (in the view of Fig. The optical carriage (not directly visible, 5) is mechanically coupled to the optical rail 504. During operation, rotation of the actuator rod 512 by the motor 510 causes the optical carriage to move along the optical rail 504. The direction of the movement is determined by the direction of rotation of the actuator rod 512. In some examples, a clockwise rotation of the actuator rod 512 results in a forward movement of the optical carriage along the optical rail 504, whereas a counterclockwise rotation of the rod 512 results in a backward movement of the optical carriage along the optical rail 504. The zoom lens group 440 is mounted on the optical carriage and is therefore moved when the optical carriage is moved along the optical rail 504.

[0035] The optomechanical assembly 500 further comprises a second motor 530, which is mounted on the base plate 502. An actuating rod 532 of the motor 530 is mechanically coupled to a second conventional optical carriage (also not directly visible in the shown view), which is slidably mounted on the optical rail 504. The focusing lens group 430 is mounted on the second optical carriage such that a rotation of the actuating rod 532 by the motor 530 results in a displacement of the focusing lens group 430 along the optical rail 504, the direction of the displacement being determined by the direction of rotation (clockwise or counterclockwise) of the rod 532.

[0036] Fig. Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating a control circuit 600 used in the lighting system 200 according to some embodiments. The control circuit 600 includes the control console 210 of the lighting system 200 (see also Figure 6). Fig. 2) and the electronic control unit 310 of the optical distance measuring device (ODMD) 220 (see also Fig. 3) The control circuit 600 further comprises a motor control unit 610 and a lamp control unit 620, both of which are located in the lighting body 100. In some embodiments, the motor control unit 610 and the lamp control unit 620 are both located in the housing 102. In one embodiment, the motor control unit 610 is operated to control two motors coupled to the corresponding shifting platforms to move the focus lens group 430 and the zoom lens group 440 along the optical axis 402, e.g., as previously described with reference to Fig. 5 explains how to move independently. The lighting control unit 620 is connected to the control console 210 via DMX channels 212. The motor control unit 610 is connected to the lighting control unit 620 and can communicate with the control console 210 via this connection. In some examples, the electronic control unit 310 is directly connected to the motor control unit 610 via communication channel 302. In some other examples, the electronic control unit 310 is instead directly connected to the lighting control unit 620, as shown in Fig. 6 is indicated by the corresponding dashed line. In both cases, the electronic control unit 310 can communicate with the control console 220 via the corresponding path in the control circuit 600.

[0037] In various embodiments, several control operations associated with the methods disclosed herein are assigned to different components of the control circuit 600 in various ways. For example, in one embodiment, the optical model calculations used to determine the displacement amount for the motor 510 are performed by the motor control unit 610 using suitable inputs from the ODMD control unit 310 and the control console 210. In some other embodiments, such optical model calculations are performed by the lighting control unit 620 and / or the control console 210. Hereinafter, any selected section of the control circuit 600, and also the control circuit 600 as a whole, may be referred to as the "control circuit".

[0038] Fig. Figure 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer device 700 configured to perform at least some control operations in the lighting system 200 according to some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the computer device 700 performs at least some control operations associated with the control methods described below (see, e.g., Figure 7). Fig. 12) In some embodiments, the control circuit 600 is implemented using one or more instances (or nominal copies) of the computer devices 700.

[0039] The computer device 700 from Fig. Figure 7 is shown to have a number of components; however, one or more of these components may be omitted or duplicated as is suitable for the application and configuration. In some embodiments, some or all of the components included in the computer device 700 may be mounted on one or more mainboards and enclosed in a housing. In some embodiments, some of these components may be manufactured on a single system-on-a-chip (SoC) (for example, the SoC may comprise one or more processors or processing devices 702 and one or more memory or storage devices 704). Additionally, in various embodiments, the computer device 700 may include one or more of the components shown in Figure 700. Fig. The computer device 700 does not include the components shown in the diagram, but includes interface circuits for coupling to one or more of the components using any suitable interface (e.g., a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) interface, a CAN (Controller Area Network) interface, an SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) interface, an Ethernet interface, a wireless interface, or any other suitable interface). For example, the computer device 700 may not include a display device 710, but may include interface circuits for display devices (e.g., a connector or driver circuits) to which an external display device 710 can be coupled.

[0040] The computer device 700 comprises a processing device 702 (e.g., one or more processing devices). As used herein, a "processing device" refers to any device or section of a device that processes electronic data from registers and / or a memory to convert such electronic data into other electronic data that can be stored in registers and / or a memory. In various embodiments, the processing device 702 may comprise one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), or any other suitable processing devices.

[0041] The computer device 700 also includes a storage device 704 (e.g., one or more storage devices). In various embodiments, the storage device 704 may comprise one or more storage devices, such as main memory (RAM) devices (e.g., static RAM (SRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), resistive RAM (RRAM), or conductive bridging RAM (CBRAM) devices), disk-based storage devices, solid-state storage devices, networked drives, or any combination of storage devices. In some embodiments, the storage device 704 may include a memory that shares a chip with the processing device 702.In such an embodiment, the memory can be used as a temporary storage device and may, for example, include embedded dynamic memory (eDRAM) or spin transfer torque magnetic memory (STT-MRAM). In some embodiments, the storage device 704 may include non-temporary computer-readable media containing instructions which, when executed by one or more processing devices (e.g., the processing device 702), cause the computer device 700 to execute any suitable method or portion thereof disclosed herein. In some examples, the storage device 704 is configured to contain a lookup table (LUT).

[0042] The computer device 700 further comprises an interface device 706 (e.g., one or more interface devices 706). In various embodiments, the interface device 706 may comprise one or more communication chips, connectors, and / or other hardware and software to regulate communications between the computer device 700 and other computer devices, e.g., as previously described with reference to Fig. 6. For example, the interface device 706 may include circuitry for handling wireless communications for transmitting data to and from the computer device 700. The term "wireless" and its derivatives may be used to describe circuitry, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc., capable of transmitting data via modulated electromagnetic radiation through a non-solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices contain no wires whatsoever, although this may be the case in some embodiments. The circuitry included in the interface device 706 for handling wireless communications may implement any number of wireless standards or protocols, including, without limitation, IEEE (Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers) standards, including WiFi (IEEE 802.11 family) and IEEE 802.16 standards, the LTE (Long-Term Evolution) project together with any modifications, updates, and / or revisions (e.g., the LTE-Advanced project, the Ultramobile Broadband (UMB) project (also called "3GPP2"), etc.). In some embodiments, the circuitry included in the 706 interface device for handling wireless communications can operate according to a Global Mobile Communications System (GSM), GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), HSPA (High Speed ​​Packet Access), Evolved-HSPA (E-HSPA), or the LTE network. In some embodiments, the circuitry included in the 706 interface device for handling wireless communications can operate according to EDGE (Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution), GERAN (GSM EDGE Radio Access Network), UTRAN (Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network), or Evolved-UTRAN (E-UTRAN).In some embodiments, the circuitry included in the interface device 706 for handling wireless communications can be operated using CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications), EV-DO (Evolution-Data Optimized), and derivatives thereof, as well as any other suitable wireless protocols. In some embodiments, the interface device 706 can include one or more antennas (e.g., one or more antenna arrays) configured to receive and / or transmit wireless signals.

[0043] In some embodiments, the interface device 706 may include circuitry for handling wired communications, such as electrical, optical, or any other suitable communication protocols. For example, the interface device 706 may include circuitry to support communications according to Ethernet technologies. In some embodiments, the interface device 706 may support both wireless and wired communications, and / or may support multiple wired communication protocols and / or multiple wireless communication protocols.For example, a first set of circuits in the 706 interface device can be dedicated to short-range wireless communications, such as WiFi or Bluetooth, and a second set of circuits in the 706 interface device can be dedicated to long-range wireless communications, such as EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE, EV-DO, or others. In some other embodiments, a first set of circuits in the 706 interface device can be dedicated to wireless communications, and a second set of circuits in the 706 interface device can be dedicated to wired communications.

[0044] The computer device 700 also includes battery / power circuits 708. In various embodiments, the battery / power circuits 708 may include one or more energy storage devices (e.g., batteries or capacitors) and / or circuits for coupling components of the computer device 700 to a power source separate from the computer device 700 (e.g., from the AC power grid).

[0045] In some embodiments, the computer device 700 may comprise a display device 710 (e.g., one or more individual display devices). In various embodiments, the display device 710 may comprise any visual indicators, such as a computer monitor, a touchscreen, a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a flat panel display.

[0046] The computer device 700 also includes additional input / output (I / O) devices 712. In various embodiments, the I / O devices 712 may include one or more data / signal transmission interfaces, audio I / O devices, sensors (e.g., thermocouples or other temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, vibration sensors, etc.), image acquisition devices (e.g., one or more cameras), human interface devices (e.g., keyboards, cursor control devices such as a mouse, a pen, a trackball, or a touchpad), etc.

[0047] In some examples, the interface devices 706 and / or I / O devices 712 include one or more analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for converting received analog signals into a digital form suitable for operations performed by the processing device 702 and / or the storage device 704. In some additional examples, the interface devices 706 and / or I / O devices 712 include one or more digital-to-analog converters (DACs) for converting digital signals provided by the processing device 702 and / or the storage device 704 into an analog form suitable for communication to other components of the lighting system 200 or the control circuit 600.

[0048] Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart of an automated focus-assist function method 800 according to some embodiments. In various examples, the method 800 is executed using the control circuit 600 or a relevant section thereof. In some examples, different processing blocks of the method 800 are executed by different respective parts (control circuit components) of the control circuit 600.

[0049] The execution of procedure 800 is initiated by a trigger event 802. Some specific examples of the trigger event 802 include suitable user input via the control console 210, the detection of a new or moving object in the field of view (FOV) of the lighting fixture 100, a sufficiently large movement of the light beam 202, and a deferred operation of the pre-programmed lighting control sequence, which is carried out using the control circuit 600. Some additional examples of the trigger event 802 are described in the following section. Fig. 12 provided.

[0050] Procedure 800 involves the control circuit 600 reading a given zoom parameter value (in a block 804). As mentioned previously, the zoom parameter value determines the position of the zoom lens group 440 in the optical assembly 400. In a representative example, the given zoom parameter value is retrieved from the corresponding register of the engine control unit 610, stored in block 804. In some examples, a copy of the given zoom parameter value is also stored in the control console 210 and can be retrieved from there in block 804.

[0051] Method 800 also includes the control circuit 600 actuating the optical distance measuring device 220 to measure the current distance to the projection surface 230 (in a block 806). In various examples of block 806, the distance measurements are taken by the optical distance measuring device 220 as before with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 3 described. When the distance measurement is complete, the electronic control unit 310 proceeds to communicate a suitable representation of the measured distance (projection distance) to the engine control unit 610 and / or the control console 210 (in block 806).

[0052] Method 800 further comprises the control circuit 600 determining the focus parameter value based on the zoom parameter value and the measured distance (in a block 808). As previously mentioned, the focus parameter value determines the position of the focus lens group 430 in the optical assembly 400. In different embodiments, block 808 comprises different respective sets of operations. For example, in one embodiment, the operations of block 808 include retrieving a corresponding focus parameter value from a previously populated LUT, which is configured such that the input of a zoom parameter value and a distance (projection distance) value causes the LUT to output the corresponding focus parameter value. In another embodiment, the operations of block 808 include calculating the focus parameter value based on an optical model of the optical assembly 400.In several examples, the optical model is digitally simulated or represented by an analytical solution (i.e., a mathematical formula or set of mathematical formulas). In both cases, in response to the zoom parameter value of block 804 and the measured distance of block 806, the computer device 702, which executes the program code representing the optical model, calculates the corresponding focus parameter value.

[0053] In block 810 of procedure 800, the control circuit 600 actuates the motor, which is coupled to the transfer platform on which the focus lens group 430 is mounted in the optical assembly 400, in order to move the focus lens group 430 to the position corresponding to the focus parameter value determined in block 808. After the focus lens group 430 has been moved, procedure 800 is completed.

[0054] Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram depicting an optical model 900 used in method 800 according to one embodiment. The optical model 900 comprises lenses 930, 940, and 950 configured to optically image an object plane 902 onto an image plane 910. The object plane 902 in the optical model 900 represents an object plane of the optical assembly 400. In some examples, a gobo used with the optical assembly 400 is located in or on the object plane of the same. The image plane 910 in the optical model 900 represents the projection surface 230. The lens 930, referred to as the "compensator," models the focus lens group 430. The lens 940, referred to as the "variator," models the zoom lens group 440. The lens 950, referred to as the "end lens," models the output lens 450.The compensator 930 and the variator 940 each have their starting positions in planes 904 and 906 and can be moved independently, as shown by the respective arrows in . Fig. 9 is specified. The end lens 950 has a fixed position 908.

[0055] The following nomenclature is used to denote various parameters and variables of the optical model 900: s distance from the object plane 902 to the compensator output position 904. a distance between starting positions 904 and 906. c Distance from the variator starting position 906 to the end lens position 908. b Compensator motor rate (e.g. in mm / signal increment). d Variator motor rate (e.g. in mm / signal increment) f1, f2, f3 focal lengths of the compensator 930, the variator 940 and the end lens 950 respectively. t Distance (projection distance) from the end lens position 908 to the image plane 910. g Compensator motor signal. z is a variator motor signal. Here, t, g, and z are variables, and the remaining quantities are parameters of the optical model 900. The parameter values ​​are set according to the specific design of the optical assembly 400. Once the optical model 900 is correctly parameterized and coded, the program code of the corresponding computer device 700 allows it to calculate an output value of a selected variable in response to the receipt of two input values ​​representing the other two variables. For example, in one configuration, the program code representing the optical model 900 causes the corresponding computer device 700 to calculate the value of the variable g in response to the receipt of the values ​​of the variables t and z.

[0056] Fig. Figure 10 is a diagram depicting a ray transfer matrix analysis used to generate program code representing optical model 900 according to one embodiment. In some literature, the ray transfer matrix analysis is referred to as "ABCD matrix analysis." Ray transfer matrix analysis is a mathematical method for performing ray tracing calculations in problems where the performance of the modeled optical system can be estimated with sufficient accuracy by considering only paraxial rays. In ray transfer matrix analysis, each optical element (e.g., a surface, interface, mirror, or free space traversed by the optical rays) is described by a corresponding 2×2 ray transfer matrix, which acts on a vector describing an incoming light ray to compute the corresponding outgoing light ray.Multiplying the successive 2×2 beam transfer matrices provides a concise beam transfer matrix that describes the entire optical system. An exemplary sequence of such 2×2 beam transfer matrices corresponding to optical model 900 is shown in . Fig. Figure 10 shows each of the matrices next to the corresponding optical element.

[0057] In various additional embodiments, one or more of the following modifications can be implemented on the optical model 900: In some embodiments, the physical lens order differs from that in Fig. 4 and Fig. 9 is indicated. In some embodiments, at least some lenses are modeled as "thick" lenses. In some embodiments, more than three model lenses, which constitute the optical assembly 400, are used. In some embodiments, at least some of the model parameters are measured directly through experimentation. In some embodiments, at least some of the model parameters are empirically determined by characterizing / calibrating the optical performance of the optical assembly 400 with a sufficient number of samples. In some embodiments, the samples for characterizing / calibrating the optical performance of the optical assembly 400 are obtained by automated image processing. In some embodiments, the optical model is used to obtain an analytical solution, e.g., a mathematical formula encoded in the program code representing the optical model. In some embodiments, model calculations and / or lighting fixture calibrations are used to compile a LUT, which is then used in block 808 of method 800 as previously described. In some embodiments, the user adjusts a "virtual variator," for example, by specifying an image characteristic such as a beam angle, magnification, or image size. This is preprocessed to determine the variator motor position, and then the main algorithm proceeds from there as previously described. In some parfocal zoom systems, the lens spacing is physically limited by a cam mechanism. Some embodiments disclosed here can serve as "virtual cams" that adjust the projection optics based on the variable focal lengths of the system.

[0058] Fig. Figure 11 is a graphic 1100 that depicts a configuration space of the optical assembly 400 according to some embodiments. The graphic 1100 comprises a three-dimensional surface 1102, each point of which represents a respective configuration of the optical assembly 400 in which the relevant internal or peripheral edge of the illuminated area 204 is in focus. The three dimensions (axes) of the graphic 1100 are the projection distance, the motor signal (called "Zoom-DMX") of the motor that moves the zoom lens group 440, and the motor signal (called "Focus-DMX") of the motor that moves the focus lens group 430.

[0059] Different embodiments employ different methods to generate surface 1102. In one embodiment, surface 102 is generated using a beam transfer matrix analysis applied to optical model 900 (see also Fig. 10) In another embodiment, the surface 1102 is generated using an analytical solution of the system of geometric optical equations describing the optical model 900. In yet another embodiment, the surface 1102 is generated using a suitable calibration procedure. In a representative example, the calibration procedure comprises experimentally finding a plurality of configuration points 1104 in the three-dimensional space of (projection distance, zoom DMX, focus DMX), for each of which the relevant internal or peripheral edge of the illuminated area 204 is sharply focused. Figure 1100 expressly shows an exemplary plurality of such experimentally found configuration points 1104.The calibration process further includes fitting the multitude of experimentally found configuration points 1104 using a suitable least squares (LMS) algorithm to find the corresponding surface 1102. In some examples, a LUT can be generated by appropriately sampling the surface 1102. The generated LUT can then be accessed to perform the LUT operations of block 808 in procedure 800 as previously described.

[0060] Fig. Figure 12 is a flowchart of a control procedure 1200 according to some embodiments. In various examples, the procedure 1200 is executed using the control circuit 600 or relevant parts thereof. Some operations of the procedure 1200 include receiving user input via the control console 210.

[0061] Procedure 1200 has two branches, labeled 1210 and 1230, respectively. A decision block 1202 is used to direct the processing flow of procedure 1200 via branch 1210 or branch 1230. For operations of batch programming the deployment symbol ("Yes" in decision block 1202), the processing flow is directed via branch 1210, which includes the operations of blocks 1212 to 1220. For other operations ("No" in decision block 1202), the processing flow is directed via branch 1230, which includes the operations of blocks 1232 to 1242.

[0062] In one implementation example, cue signs are used to automatically change the lighting style on stage. These styles can be saved and then recalled sequentially (e.g., each cue sign represents a step in the corresponding sequence). Cue signs are stored in the cue sign stack according to their number, which can range, for example, from cue sign 0.01 to cue sign 999.99. The cue signs are created and edited from the 210 control console and can store positions, intensities, or other specific parameter data for any selected channel. Unlike presets, cue signs can have specific timing settings associated with them, either collectively or on an individual channel basis. Once created, cue signs can be loaded from the cue sign stack or the playback screen.Loading a signal prepares the control console 210 to execute the contents of that signal. A corresponding signal stack is typically saved with the light show file.

[0063] Block 1212 of branch 1210 comprises the operations of blocks 804 to 808 of procedure 800, corresponding to the given zoom parameter value and projection distance. As previously mentioned, these operations are typically performed on the illuminator 100. Block 1214 involves the illuminator control unit 620 sending the relevant data, including the measured projection distance, zoom DMX, and calculated focus DMX, to the control console 210. Block 1216 involves the control console 210 sending a command to the illuminator 100 to move the focus lens group 430 according to the calculated focus DMX, possibly along with other suitable commands. Block 1218 involves the control console 210 receiving user input for configuration adjustments for the illuminator 100, if applicable.In various examples, the configuration adjustment can be based on a visual or sensor-assisted inspection of the illuminated area 204 and / or the user's subjective creative intent. In some examples, the configuration adjustment in block 1218 can be iterative or incremental, for example, until the appearance of the illuminated area 204 is judged to be satisfactory. After the configuration adjustment is completed via one or more user inputs, the final control data is programmed into the corresponding insert character stack in block 1220. The processing, corresponding to branch 1210 of procedure 1200, is then complete.

[0064] Block 1232 of branch 1230 comprises the operations of blocks 804 to 808 of procedure 800, corresponding to the given zoom parameter value and projection distance. Block 1234 includes the control circuit 600 adjusting the focus parameter value obtained in block 1232 by an offset value. In various examples, the offset value can be pre-programmed into the corresponding input character or entered by the user via the control console 210. Block 1234 includes the motor control unit 610, which actuates the corresponding motor, moving the focus lens group 430 to the position corresponding to the adjusted focus parameter value of block 1234.

[0065] Decision block 1238 of branch 1230 is used to distinguish between continuous operation and single-operation sequences. Continuous operation involves the uninterrupted execution of the operations in blocks 1232 to 1236, for example, with a selected fixed time delay between successive loops. Single-operation mode involves executing a single sequence of blocks 1232 to 1236 and then holding the focus lens group 430 in the fixed position (in block 1242) until the focus hold is released ("Yes" in decision block 1240).Exemplary triggers for releasing a one-time focus hold in decision block 1240 can include timing parameters, a lead of the input stack relative to a subsequent input, specific distance criteria checked based on the distance measured by the corresponding distance measuring device 220, and so on. Afterwards, the processing corresponding to branch 1230 of procedure 1200 is completed.

[0066] Fig. Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating a lighting system 1300 according to some embodiments. The lighting system 1300 comprises the lighting system 200 ( Fig. 2) as a subsystem thereof. Additionally, the lighting system 1300 comprises the lighting bodies 100B and 100C. Unlike the lighting body 100 of the lighting subsystem 200, the lighting bodies 100B and 100C are not equipped with their own instances of the distance measuring device 220. In some embodiments, the lighting bodies 100B and 100C are separate instances (e.g., nominal copies) of the lighting body 100, of which various features have been previously described with reference to Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. 12. In some other embodiments, the lighting bodies 100B and 100C may have a different but functionally similar motorized design, which may belong, for example, to a different manufacturer of motorized (e.g., movable, sliding and / or rotatable) lighting bodies than the manufacturer of the lighting body 100.

[0067] The lighting system 1300 also includes a distance measuring device 1320, which is an autonomous distance measuring device. The term "autonomous" means that the distance measuring device 1320 is not directly attached to or mounted on a corresponding lighting body. That is, the distance measuring device 1320 does not include an instance of the optical assembly 400 or a functional equivalent thereof, and thus does not generate or project an illumination beam similar to the light beam 202. In the example shown, the distance measuring device 1320 includes a distance measuring sensor 1330 mounted on a pan-tilt device 1310, which does not contain a primary illumination function.In a non-restrictive example, the pan-tilt device 1310 is implemented by removing the optical assembly 400 and other related projection optics from an instance of the illuminator 100 and relocating the distance measuring sensor 1330 to the corresponding space inside the housing 102, as shown in . Fig. 13. In some examples, the distance measuring sensor 1330 can be an instance (nominal copy) of the distance measuring device 220. In other examples, the distance measuring sensor 1330 can be implemented using one of the previously described (optical or non-optical) distance measuring devices. Various alternative implementations of the pan-tilt device 1310 can be used similarly in some embodiments of the distance measuring device 1320.

[0068] In the example shown, the lighting fixtures 100, 100B, and 100C and the distance measuring device 1320 are mounted along a support 1340 at various locations, each marked A, B, C, and D. In other examples, the lighting fixtures 100, 100B, and 100C and the distance measuring device 1320 can be mounted on various support structures, such as different beams, pipes, racks, and the like. In some examples, the support 1340, or at least some of the various support structures, can be movable relative to the respective theater stage or light show environment.

[0069] In operation, the illuminators 100, 100B, and 100C each project the light beams 202, 202B, and 202C onto a projection surface 1350. The light beams 202, 202B, and 202C can be independently tilted and swiveled by operating each of the illuminators 100, 100B, and 100C, e.g., as described above, thereby causing the corresponding movement of the respective illuminated areas 204, 204B, and 204C along the projection surface 1350. Although the illuminated areas 204, 204B, and 204C in Fig. Although the 13 illuminated areas are shown without overlap, it is possible that two or more of these illuminated areas may overlap in some sections of the projection surface 1350. Although the projection surface 1350 in Fig. While 13 is shown to be planar, the projection surface 1350 can have a non-planar, multiplanar, curved or more complex topology in various additional examples.

[0070] In some examples, the distance measuring sensor 1330 of the distance measuring device 1320 is operated to send an optical probe beam 1322 toward the projection surface 1350. The optical probe beam 1322 is reflected by the projection surface 1350, and a portion 1324 of the reflected optical beam returns to the distance measuring sensor 1330. The pan-tilt device 1310 can be operated to direct the optical probe beam 1322 toward different parts of the projection surface 1350 as needed. Although the optical probe beam 1322 in Fig. Figure 13 shows how it hits the projection surface 1350 outside the illuminated areas 204, 204B and 204C, but there could be cases and configurations in which the optical probe beam 1322 hits the projection surface 1350 within one of the illuminated areas 204, 204B and 204C or within an overlap area of ​​the two or more illuminated areas.

[0071] Various functions / features of the lighting fixtures 100, 100B, and 100C, and the distance measuring device 1320, are each controlled by the control console 210 via DMX control signals 212, 212B, 212C, and 212D. In some examples, the lighting system 1300 may include one or more additional instances of the lighting fixture 100 (each equipped with the corresponding instance of the distance measuring device 220), one or more additional instances of the lighting fixture 100B or 100C (not equipped with their own instances of the distance measuring device 220), and one or more additional instances of the autonomous distance measuring device 1320. These additional instances can be controlled similarly by the control console 210 via the corresponding DMX control signals.

[0072] In some examples, the lighting system 1300 is operated to provide an automated focus assist function for the lighting fixtures 100B and 100C based on distance measurements taken by one or both of the distance measuring devices 220 and 1320. The corresponding automated focus assist function method is a modification of the previously described automated focus assist function method 800. In one example, the modified method 800 includes a modified block 806 and a modified block 808 (see also Fig. 8) More precisely, the operations of the modified block 806 involve obtaining an estimated projection distance value for the illuminator 100B (or 100C) based on distance measurements taken by the distance measuring devices 220 and / or 1320. In some implementations, this obtaining involves receiving the estimated projection distance value from the control console 210 via the DMX control signal 212B (or 212C). In some examples, all calculations aimed at estimating the projection distance value can be performed in a specific section (e.g., the control console 220) of the corresponding control circuit or distributed across several different sections of the corresponding control circuit (see also Fig. 6) Illustrative examples of such calculations are given below with reference to Fig. 14 described in more detail. The operations of the modified block 808 include determining the focus parameter value for the illuminator 100B (or 100C) based on its zoom parameter value and the estimated projection distance value obtained in the modified block 806.

[0073] Fig. Figure 14 is a flowchart of an automated method 1400 for estimating a projection distance value in the lighting system 1300 according to some embodiments. For clarification, and without limitation, the automated method 1400 is described as it is designed to provide an estimated projection distance value for the lighting fixture 100B based on the distance measurement(s) taken by the distance measuring device 220 and / or the distance measuring device 1320 and executed on the control console 210. In various additional examples, some sections of the automated method 1400 can be performed using other relevant parts of the corresponding control circuit, such as the relevant parts of the control circuit 600 ( Fig. 6) can be implemented. Based on the provided description, a person skilled in the art in the relevant field is able to create and use various suitably distributed versions of the automated method 1400 without unnecessary experimentation. A separate instance of the automated method 1400 can operate similarly to estimate a projection distance value for the illuminator 100C.

[0074] The automated procedure 1400 comprises the control console 210 receiving distance measurements from one or both of the distance measuring devices 220 and 1320 (in a block 1402). Each of the distance measuring devices 220 and 1320 performs its respective distance measurement, e.g., as described previously. Each of the distance measuring devices 220 and 1320 then sends digital values ​​representing the measured distance(s) to the control console 210 via the respective DMX control signals 212 and 212D. In some examples, the distance measuring device 220 uses the relevant circuitry of the lighting fixture 100, e.g., as described previously, to send these digital values ​​to the control console 210.

[0075] The automated procedure 1400 also includes the control console 210 (in a block 1404) obtaining spatial position / orientation parameters for the lighting fixtures 100 and 100B and the distance measuring device 1320. If the lighting fixtures 100 and 100B and the distance measuring device 1320 have fixed positions, the spatial orientation parameters obtained in block 1404 include values ​​representing the respective swivel and tilt angles for each of the lighting fixtures 100 and 100B and the distance measuring device 1320. The tilt and swivel angles are labeled θ and φ below. If some or all of the lighting fixtures 100 and 100B and the distance measuring device 1320 are movable, e.g., B. along the support 1340, position changes in relation to the respective reference (e.g. starting) positions are also achieved by the control console 210 in block 1404.

[0076] In some configurations of the 1300 lighting system, the control console 210 may "know" the spatial position / orientation parameters for the 100 and 100B luminaires and the 1320 distance measuring device by performing operational control of these parameters. In such configurations, the operations of block 1404 involve reading the corresponding parameter values ​​from the memory of the control console 210. In some other configurations of the 1300 lighting system's control circuit, the operations of block 1404 may involve requesting and receiving some or all of the spatial position / orientation parameter values ​​from the corresponding parts of the control circuit located on the 100 and / or 100B luminaires and / or the 1320 distance measuring device. This requesting and receiving may be performed, for example, using the DMX control signals 212, 212A, and 212D.

[0077] The automated procedure 1400 further includes the fact that the control console 210 has an estimated projection distance value t B for the lighting fixture 100B (in block 1406). In various examples, the calculations of block 1406 are based on the various parameter values ​​obtained / received in blocks 1402 and 1404, and may also (if applicable) be based on relevant auxiliary information available at the control console 210. In a representative example, an algorithm for projection distance estimation used in block 1406 is based on one or more of the following subsets of input parameters obtained / received in blocks 1402 and 1404: t A Measured projection distance value for the illuminator 100; (θ A , φ A ) Tilt and swivel angle for the lighting fixture 100; t Dmeasured projection distance value for the distance measuring device 1320; (θ D , φ D ) Tilt and swivel angles for the distance measuring device 1320; (θ B , φ B ) Tilt and swivel angle for the lighting fixture 100B; (ΔX AB , ΔY AB , ΔZ AB ) three-dimensional (3D) spatial offsets between positions A and B; and (ΔX) BD , ΔY BD , ΔZ BD ): spatial 3D offsets between the positions Bund D. The Cartesian coordinate system XYZ, in which the spatial 3D offsets can be measured, is in Fig. 13 is specified by the corresponding XYZ coordinate triad. In this coordinate system, the previously specified spatial 3D offsets for the spatial configuration of the in Fig. The following values ​​apply to the lighting system 1300 shown in the diagram: ΔX AB = B1; ΔX BD = B2; ΔY AB = ΔZ AB = ΔYBD = ΔZ BD = 0.

[0078] In some examples, the help information available at control console 210 for the calculations performed in block 1406 may include some or all of: (i) Information about the general shape of the projection surface 1350, such as “planar”, “spherical” or “cylindrical”, (ii) Orientation of the support 1340 in relation to the projection surface 1350 or in the XYZ coordinate system; (iii) Depth map of projection surface 1350 from position A; and (iv) Depth map of the projection surface 1350 from position D. In some examples, the depth map of the projection surface 1350 is constructed from the fixed position A and based on the projection distance values ​​t. A , which are for different angular orientations (θ A , φ AThe depth of the illuminator 100 is measured and gradually updated. Similarly, the depth map of the projection surface 1350 is built from the fixed position D and based on the projection distance values ​​t. D , which are for different angular orientations (θ D , φ D ) the distance measuring device 1320 is measured, gradually updated.

[0079] In several examples, the aforementioned input parameters and auxiliary information typically overdefine the corresponding mathematical problem of calculating the estimated projection distance value t. B , which is solved in block 1406. Thus, the calculation of t can be performed. BIn Block 1406, this can be done in different ways, for example, by selecting a suitable subset of mathematically sufficient problem constraints from the totality of available parameters and / or auxiliary information. Overdefining the corresponding mathematical problem also allows the projection distance estimation algorithm, executed by control console 210, to perform consistency checks and calculate an estimated error corresponding to the value t. B is assigned, which is then calculated in block 1406.

[0080] In the rare cases where the relevant mathematical problem is not overdefined, the control console 210 can command the distance measuring device 1320 to orient itself so that the probe beam 1322 hits the projection surface 1350 within the illuminated area 204B, and the corresponding projection distance value t Dto measure in this orientation. With this t D -Measurement turns the corresponding mathematical problem of calculating the estimated projection distance value into a simple triangulation problem, which is then solved by the projection distance estimation algorithm used in Block 1406.

[0081] Following the calculation of t B In block 1406, the operations of the automated procedure 1400 include the control console 210 (in a block 1408) displaying the calculated value t B sends to the responsible control entity, which executes the previously mentioned modified focus auxiliary function procedure 800. In some examples, the responsible control entity is located in the lighting fixture 100B. By receiving the calculated value t BFrom the control console 210, the responsible control entity implements the previously described modified block 806 of the modified focus auxiliary function procedure 800 in at least some examples. Subsequently, the responsible control entity can execute the previously described modified block 808 and the operations of block 810 of the modified focus auxiliary function procedure 800. After the operations of block 1408 are completed, the procedure 1400 is terminated.

[0082] According to a previously disclosed example, e.g., in the summary section and / or with reference to any or any combination of some or all of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig. 14, a device is provided comprising: an optical assembly for projecting a beam of light generated by a first light source onto a projection surface, the optical assembly being movable relative to the projection surface and comprising a first lens, a second lens and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the optical assembly, the second lens and the third lens being independently movable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; an optical distance measuring device optically aligned with the optical assembly to provide a measurement of a distance between the optical assembly and the projection surface, the optical distance measuring device being movable together with the optical assembly;and a control circuit configured to determine an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the light beam is sharply focused on the projection surface, the estimated position being determined based on the measurement and further based on a given position of the second lens.

[0083] In some examples of the above device, the device further includes a first motor to move the third lens along the optical axis, the control circuit being further configured to actuate the first motor to move the third lens into the estimated position.

[0084] In some examples of any of the above devices, the device further comprises: a frame rotatably connected to a base; a housing rotatably connected to the frame, the optical assembly being mounted in the housing; a second motor to rotate the frame about a first axis of rotation relative to the base; and a third motor to rotate the housing about a second axis of rotation relative to the frame, the housing being oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the first axis of rotation, the control circuit further being configured to actuate the second and third motors to move the optical assembly relative to the projection surface.

[0085] In some examples of any of the devices mentioned above, the base is movable relative to the projection surface.

[0086] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuitry includes an electronic control unit located inside the housing.

[0087] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuit further includes a control console configured to control a variety of lighting fixtures, one of which includes the base, frame, housing, optical assembly, first motor, second motor, third motor, and electronic control unit.

[0088] In some examples of any of the above devices, the optical distance-measuring device comprises: a second light source to emit a probe beam in the direction of the projection surface; a driver circuit to electrically drive the second light source to cause the probe beam to be pulsed, intensity-modulated, or frequency-modulated; and an optical receiver to detect a returning beam formed by reflections of the probe beam from the projection surface, the optical distance-measuring device being configured to achieve the measurement by comparing one or more characteristics of the probe beam and the returning beam.

[0089] In some examples of any of the above devices, the first light source is configured to emit visible light, and the second light source is configured to emit infrared light.

[0090] In some examples of any of the above devices, the optical distance measuring device includes a lidar distance measuring sensor.

[0091] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuit is configured to determine the estimated position using a lookup table that can be addressed with a pair of values ​​consisting of a distance value and a second lens position value.

[0092] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuitry is configured to determine the estimated position based on calibration data.

[0093] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuitry is configured to determine the estimated position based on a numerical model of the optical assembly.

[0094] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuit is configured to determine the estimated position based on an analytical solution of a system of equations describing the optical characteristics of the optical assembly.

[0095] In some examples of any of the above devices, the control circuitry includes a multifunctional control console configured to control a variety of lighting fixtures, selecting the controllable features of the same from the group consisting of panning, tilting, shifting, light color, light intensity, optical zoom, optical focus, gobo, iris, image setting aperture, and time setting of one or more lighting fixture operations.

[0096] In some examples of any of the above devices, the optical distance measuring device is optically aligned with the optical assembly such that the measurement corresponds to a peripheral edge of the area illuminated by the light beam.

[0097] In some examples of any of the above devices, the optical distance measuring device is optically aligned with the optical assembly such that the measurement corresponds to an inner edge within the area illuminated by the light beam.

[0098] According to another previously disclosed example, e.g., in the summary section and / or with reference to any or any combination of some or all of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig. 14, a method for providing a focus assist function for a lighting fixture is provided, the method comprising: obtaining, with an electronic processor, a first parameter value representing an axial position of a second lens in an optical assembly comprising a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the optical assembly, wherein the second lens and the third lens are independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; obtaining, with the electronic processor, a measurement of a distance between the lighting fixture and a projection surface;and determining, with the electronic processor, a second parameter value representing an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the illuminator is sharply focused on the projection surface, the second parameter value being determined based on the measurement and further based on the first parameter value.

[0099] In some examples of the above procedure, the procedure further includes programming, using the electronic processor, the second parameter value or a customized value into an insertion character, the customized value being achieved by changing the second parameter value based on user input.

[0100] In some examples of one of the above methods, the method further includes controlling, with the electronic processor, a motor configured to move the third lens along the optical axis, the control causing the motor to move the third lens into a position corresponding to the second parameter value.

[0101] According to yet another previously disclosed example, e.g., in the summary section and / or with reference to any or any combination of some or all of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig. 14, a non-temporary computer-readable medium is provided which stores instructions which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations comprising any one of the above procedures.

[0102] According to yet another previously disclosed example, e.g., in the summary section and / or with reference to any or any combination of some or all of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig. 14, a lighting system is provided, comprising: a first lighting fixture (e.g. 100B, Fig. 13), comprising a first optical assembly configured to project a first beam of light onto a projection surface, the first optical assembly being rotatable relative to the projection surface and comprising a first lens, a second lens and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the first optical assembly, the second lens and the third lens being independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis of the first optical assembly relative to the first lens; a first distance measuring device (e.g. 220 or 1330, Fig. 13), which are connected to a first pan-tilt device (e.g. 1310 or the analogous part of 100, Fig. 13) is mounted, and is configured to take a measurement of a distance between the first distance measuring device and the projection surface, wherein the first distance measuring device is rotatable relative to the projection surface by actuating the first pan-tilt device, wherein the first distance measuring device and the first optical assembly are rotatable independently of each other; and a control circuit configured to determine an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the first light beam is focused sharply on the projection surface, wherein the estimated position is determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the second lens in the first optical assembly.

[0103] In some examples of the lighting system above, the lighting system includes a control console (e.g., 210, Fig. 13), which is configured to: receive (e.g. 1402, Fig. 14) the measurement from the first distance measuring device via a first communication channel; achieving (e.g. 1404, Fig. 14) of respective angular orientation parameters for the first optical assembly and for the first distance measuring device; and calculating (e.g. 1406, Fig. 14) of an estimated projection distance value for the first illuminator based on the measurement and the respective angular orientation parameters, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the estimated position of the third lens based on the estimated projection distance value.

[0104] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the control console is further configured to communicate the estimated projection distance value of the control circuit via a second communication channel (e.g., 1408, Fig. 14).

[0105] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the first lighting fixture includes a first motor (e.g., 530, Fig. 5), which is configured to move the third lens along the optical axis of the first optical assembly; and wherein the first illuminator is configured to actuate the first motor to move the third lens into the estimated position.

[0106] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the first lighting fixture further comprises a second motor (e.g. 510, Fig. 5), which is configured to move the second lens along the optical axis of the first optical assembly to change its axial position.

[0107] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the lighting system further includes a second lighting fixture (e.g. 100, Fig. 13) which is configured to project a second beam of light onto the projection surface, wherein the second illuminator comprises the first pan-tilt device; and wherein the first pan-tilt device is configured to pan and tilt the second beam of light.

[0108] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the second lighting element comprises a second optical assembly configured to project the second beam of light onto the projection surface, the second optical assembly being mounted on the first pan-tilt device to rotate together with the first range-measuring device (e.g., 220, Fig. 13), and comprising a fourth lens, a fifth lens and a sixth lens arranged along an optical axis of the second optical assembly, wherein the fifth lens and the sixth lens are independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis of the second optical assembly relative to the fourth lens.

[0109] In some examples of any of the above illumination systems, the control circuit is further configured to determine an estimated position of the sixth lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the second light beam is sharply focused on the projection surface, the estimated position of the sixth lens being determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the fifth lens in the second optical assembly.

[0110] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the lighting system further includes a second lighting fixture (e.g. 100, Fig. 13), which is configured to project a second beam of light onto the projection surface, the second illuminator comprising a second pan-tilt device configured to pan and tilt the second beam of light.

[0111] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the lighting system further includes a second distance measuring device (e.g. 220, Fig. 13), which is mounted on the second pan-tilt device and configured to provide a measured value representing a distance between the second range-measuring device and the projection surface, wherein the second range-measuring device is rotatable relative to the projection surface by actuating the second pan-tilt device, wherein the first optical assembly, the first range-measuring device (e.g. 1330, Fig. 13) and the second distance measuring device are rotatable independently of each other.

[0112] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the second lighting body comprises a second optical assembly configured to project the second beam of light onto the projection surface, the second optical assembly being mounted on the second pan-tilt device to rotate together with the second distance-measuring device, and comprising a fourth lens, a fifth lens, and a sixth lens arranged along an optical axis of the second optical assembly, the fifth lens and the sixth lens being independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis of the second optical assembly relative to the fourth lens.

[0113] In some examples of any of the above illumination systems, the control circuit is further configured to determine an estimated position of the sixth lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the second light beam is sharply focused on the projection surface, the estimated position of the sixth lens being determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the fifth lens in the second optical assembly.

[0114] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the control circuit is further configured to determine the estimated position of the third lens based on the measured value.

[0115] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the lighting system includes a control console (e.g., 210, Fig. 13), which is configured to: receive (e.g. 1402, Fig. 14) the measurement from the first distance measuring device via a first communication channel; receiving (e.g. 1402, Fig. 14) of the measured value from the second distance measuring device via a second communication channel; achieving (e.g. 1404, Fig. 14) respective angular orientation parameters for the first optical assembly, for the second optical assembly and for the first distance measuring device; and calculation (e.g. 1406, Fig. 14) of an estimated projection distance value for the first illuminator based on the measurement, the measured value and the respective angular orientation parameters, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the estimated position of the third lens based on the estimated projection distance value.

[0116] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the control console is further configured to communicate the estimated projection distance value of the control circuit via a third communication channel (e.g., 1408, Fig. 14); wherein the first lighting fixture has a first motor (e.g. 530, Fig. 5) comprises, which is configured to move the third lens along the optical axis of the first optical assembly; and wherein the first illuminator is configured to actuate the first motor to move the third lens into the estimated position.

[0117] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the first lighting fixture further comprises a second motor (e.g. 510, Fig. 5), which is configured to move the second lens along the optical axis of the first optical assembly to change its axial position.

[0118] In some examples of any of the above lighting systems, the first communication channel, the second communication channel, and the third communication channel are wireless communication channels.

[0119] According to yet another previously disclosed example, e.g., in the summary section and / or with reference to any or any combination of some or all of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig. 14, a method for providing a focus assist function for a rotatable illuminator is provided, the method comprising: receiving (e.g. 1402, Fig. 14), with an electronic control unit, a first distance measurement from a first rotatable distance measuring device; achieving (e.g. 1404, Fig. 14), with the electronic control unit, from first values ​​representing the swivel and tilt angles of the first rotatable distance measuring device, and from second values ​​representing the swivel and tilt angles of the rotatable lighting fixture; Calculate (e.g. 1406, Fig. 14), with the electronic control unit, an estimated projection distance value for the rotatable illuminator based on the first distance measurement, the first values ​​and the second values; and transmitting (e.g. 1408, Fig. 14), with the electronic control unit, the estimated projection distance value to an electronic processor.

[0120] In some examples of the above procedure, the procedure further includes: receiving (e.g. 1402, Fig. 14), with the electronic control unit, a second distance measurement from a second rotatable distance measuring device; and achieving (e.g. 1404, Fig. 14), with the electronic control unit, of third values ​​representing the swivel and tilt angles of the second rotatable distance measuring device, the calculation further being based on the second distance measurement and the third values.

[0121] In some examples of one of the above procedures, the procedure further includes: achieving (e.g., 804, Fig. 8), with the electronic processor, a first parameter value representing an axial position of a second lens in an optical assembly comprising a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the optical assembly in the rotatable illuminator, wherein the second lens and the third lens are independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; and determining (e.g., modified step 808, Fig. 8), with the electronic processor, a second parameter value representing an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the rotatable illuminator is sharply focused on a projection surface, wherein the second parameter value is determined based on the estimated projection distance value and further based on the first parameter value.

[0122] According to yet another previously disclosed example, e.g., in the summary section and / or with reference to any or any combination of some or all of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig.14, a non-temporary, computer-readable medium is provided which stores instructions which, when executed by at least one processor, cause that at least one processor to perform operations comprising any one of the above methods for providing a focus auxiliary function.

[0123] All terms used in the claims are intended to be defined in their broadest sense and in their normal meaning as understood by those skilled in the art in the technologies described herein, unless expressly stated otherwise. In particular, the use of singular articles such as "a", "an", "the", etc., is to be understood as referring to one or more of the elements indicated, unless a claim expressly states otherwise.

[0124] Unless expressly stated otherwise, all numerical values ​​and ranges are to be understood as approximate, as if the word "about" or "approximately" preceded the value or range.

[0125] The use of numbers and / or reference numerals (where applicable) in the claims serves to identify one or more possible embodiments of the claimed subject matter in order to facilitate the interpretation of the claims. Such use is not to be interpreted as necessarily limiting the scope of these claims to the embodiments shown in the corresponding figures.

[0126] Although the elements in the following method claims, where applicable, are mentioned in a specific sequence with appropriate marking, insofar as the mentions in the claims do not require a specific sequence for implementing some or all of these elements, these elements are not necessarily intended to be restricted to being implemented in that specific sequence.

[0127] A reference to "a single embodiment" or "an embodiment" here means that a particular feature, structure, or distinguishing characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The occurrence of the expression "in a single embodiment" at different points in the description does not necessarily always refer to the same embodiment, and separate or alternative embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive. This also applies to the term "implementation."

[0128] Unless otherwise specified herein, the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to refer to one object among a multitude of identical objects, merely indicates that one is referring to different instances of such identical objects and is not intended to imply that the identical objects thus referred to must be in a corresponding order or sequence, be it temporal, spatial, rank-wise, or otherwise.

[0129] Unless otherwise specified herein, the conjunction "ob" may, in addition to its normal meaning, also or alternatively be interpreted to mean "if" or "at" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detection," with this interpretation depending on the specific context. For example, the phrase "if determined" or "if [a specified condition] is detected" may be interpreted to mean "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "upon detecting [the specified condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the specified condition or event]."

[0130] For the purposes of this description, the terms "couple," "coupling," "coupled," "connect," "connection," or "connected" refer to any method known in technology or subsequently developed by which energy can be transferred between two or more elements, and the insertion of one or more additional elements is considered, but not required. In contrast, the terms "directly coupled," "directly connected," etc., imply the absence of such additional elements. The same kind of distinction applies to the use of the terms "attached" and "directly attached" as applied to a description of a physical structure. For example, a relatively thin layer of adhesive or other suitable bonding agent may be used to implement this "direct attachment" of the two corresponding components in such a physical structure.

[0131] The described embodiments are to be regarded in every respect as purely explanatory and not limiting. In particular, the scope of disclosure is specified by the accompanying claims rather than by the description and the figures therein. All modifications that fall within the scope and equivalence of the claims are to be included within their scope.

[0132] The functions of the various elements shown in the figures, including any functional blocks labeled "processors" and / or "controllers," can be provided by the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in conjunction with suitable software. When provided by a processor, the functions can be provided by a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or a plurality of individual processors, some of which may be shared.Furthermore, the explicit use of the terms "processor" or "controller" is not to be interpreted as referring exclusively to hardware capable of executing software. It may implicitly include, without limitation, digital signal processing (DSP) hardware, a network processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a user-programmable gate array (FPGA), solid-state memory (ROM) for storing software, working memory (RAM), and a non-temporary storage device. Other hardware, both conventional and / or specific, may also be included. Similarly, all switches shown in the figures are purely conceptual.Its function can be performed via the operation of program logic, via dedicated logic, via the interaction of program control and dedicated logic, or even manually, with the specific technique being selectable by the implementer as more clearly indicated by the context.

[0133] As used in the present application, the term “circuits” may refer to one, more, or all of the following: (a) circuit implementations as hardware only (such as implementations in analog and / or digital circuits only); (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as required): (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuits with software / firmware, and (ii) any sections of hardware processors with software (including digital signal processors, software, and memory working together to cause a device, such as a mobile phone or a server, to perform various functions); and (c) hardware circuits and / or processors, such as microprocessors or a section of microprocessors, that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, although the software may not be present when required for operation.This definition of circuits applies to all uses of this term in the present application, including all claims. As a further example of how it is used in the present application, the term circuits also covers an implementation consisting solely of a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors), or a section of a hardware circuit or processor, or its accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, the term circuits also covers, and where applicable to the specific claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or a processor-integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a mobile network device, or other computer or network device.

[0134] Those skilled in the art will understand that any block diagrams presented here represent conceptual views of explanatory circuits that form the basis of the disclosure. Similarly, it is understood that any flowcharts, process diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudocode, and the like represent various processes that are essentially presented in a computer-readable medium and can thus be executed by a computer or processor, regardless of whether the computer or processor is explicitly shown or not.

Claims

[1] Device, comprising: an optical assembly (400) for projecting a light beam (202) generated by a first light source onto a projection surface (230), wherein the optical assembly is movable relative to the projection surface and comprises a first lens, a second lens and a third lens arranged along an optical axis (402) of the optical assembly, wherein the second lens and the third lens are independently movable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; a distance measuring device (220) configured to provide a measurement of a distance between the optical assembly and the projection surface, wherein the distance measuring device is movable together with the optical assembly; and a control circuit (600) configured to determine an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the light beam is sharply focused on the projection surface, wherein the estimated position is determined based on the measurement and further based on an axial position of the second lens; wherein the distance measuring device (220) and the optical assembly (400) are together movable with respect to the projection surface (230). [2] Device according to claim 1, further comprising a first motor (510) to move the third lens along the optical axis (402), wherein the control circuit (600) is further configured to actuate the first motor to move the third lens into the estimated position. [3] Device according to claim 2, further comprising: a frame that is rotatably connected to a base; a housing (102) rotatably connected to the frame, wherein the optical assembly is mounted in the housing; a second motor (530) to rotate the frame about a first axis of rotation relative to the base; a third motor to rotate the housing relative to the frame around a second axis of rotation, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the first axis of rotation, wherein the distance measuring device (220) is attached to the housing (102); and wherein the control circuit (600) is further configured to actuate the second motor and the third motor to move the optical assembly relative to the projection surface. [4] Device according to claim 3, wherein the base is movable relative to the projection surface. [5] Device according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the control circuit comprises an electronic control unit (122) located in the housing; wherein the control circuit (600) further comprises a control console (210) configured to control a plurality of lighting fixtures; and wherein one of the lighting bodies comprises the base, the frame, the housing, the optical assembly, the first motor, the second motor, the third motor and the electronic control unit. [6] Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distance measuring device (220) comprises: a second light source to emit a probe beam towards the projection surface; a driver circuit (330) to electrically drive the second light source to cause the probe beam to be pulsed, intensity-modulated, or frequency-modulated; and an optical receiver to detect a returning beam formed by reflections of the probe beam from the projection surface, wherein the distance measuring device is configured to achieve the measurement by comparing one or more characteristics of the probe beam and the returning beam. [7] Device according to claim 6, wherein the first light source is configured to emit visible light; and wherein the second light source is configured to emit infrared light. [8] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance measuring device (220) comprises a lidar distance measuring sensor. [9] Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distance measuring device (220) is an acoustic distance measuring device or an ultrasonic distance measuring device. [10] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control circuit (600) is configured to determine the estimated position using a search table that is addressable by a pair of values ​​consisting of a distance value and a second lens position value. [11] Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control circuit (600) is configured to determine the estimated position based on calibration data. [12] Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control circuit (600) is configured to determine the estimated position based on a numerical model of the optical assembly. [13] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control circuit (600) is configured to determine the estimated position based on an analytical solution of a system of equations describing optical characteristics of the optical assembly. [14] Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control circuit comprises a multifunctional control console configured to control a plurality of lighting elements comprising a first lighting element, wherein the controllable features of the first lighting element comprise a displacement movement of the first lighting element with respect to the projection surface, wherein the first lighting body comprises the optical assembly, and the distance measuring device is permanently attached to the first lighting fixture. [15] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance measuring device (220) is aligned with the optical assembly such that the measurement corresponds to a peripheral edge of the area illuminated by the light beam. [16] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance measuring device (220) is aligned with the optical assembly such that the measurement corresponds to an inner edge within the area illuminated by the light beam. [17] Method for providing a focus assist function for a lighting device, the method comprising: Achieving, with an electronic processor, a first parameter value representing an axial position of a second lens in an optical assembly comprising a first lens, a second lens and a third lens arranged along an optical axis of the optical assembly, wherein the second lens and the third lens are independently displaceable to different positions along the optical axis relative to the first lens; Achieving, with the electronic processor, a measurement of a distance between the illuminator and a projection surface, wherein the measurement is obtained from a distance measuring device (220), wherein the distance measuring device and the optical assembly are together displaceable with respect to the projection surface; and Determine, using the electronic processor, a second parameter value representing an estimated position of the third lens with which an edge of an area illuminated by the illuminator is sharply focused on the projection surface, the second parameter value being determined based on the measurement and further based on the first parameter value. [18] The method of claim 17, further comprising programming, with the electronic processor, the second parameter value or a customized value into an insertion character, wherein the customized value is achieved by changing the second parameter value based on a user input; and controlling, with the electronic processor, a motor configured to move the third lens along the optical axis, wherein the controlling causes the motor to move the third lens into a position corresponding to the second parameter value. [19] Non-temporary computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by at least one processor, cause that at least one processor to perform operations comprising the method according to any one of claims 17 to 18. [20] Device according to claim 3, further comprising a movable frame or support (1340) which is configured to provide two or three degrees of freedom for moving the base with respect to the projection surface.

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