Adjustable Direction Video Projector for Dynamic Surface Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current projection systems lack the ability to adjust their projection direction dynamically and efficiently across various surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and floors, especially in environments with changing orientations or movements, like vehicles, which can lead to an inconsistent viewing experience.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising an adjustable direction video projector coupled with circuitry that selects and adjusts operational modes, utilizing electric motors and adjustment mechanisms to fine-tune the projection direction based on selected modes, allowing for projection onto different surfaces and orientations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the projection system uses a fixed projection direction, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different surfaces and orientations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different surfacesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The projection system employs adjustable projection heads that can dynamically change their orientation and projection direction. The projection heads are mounted on adjustable mechanisms that allow them to pivot and rotate, enabling the system to adapt to different surfaces (walls, ceilings, floors) and orientations without requiring multiple fixed projection devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the projection system adds adjustment mechanisms for changing projection direction, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection direction adjustment capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable projection heads serve multiple functions: they can project onto different surfaces (walls, ceilings, floors), adjust to various orientations, and compensate for movements. This multi-functionality is achieved through a standardized adjustable mechanism that can be controlled via mode selection circuitry, reducing the need for multiple specialized projection devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system includes mode selection circuitry that automatically adjusts the projection direction based on selected operational modes. The system can self-adjust to compensate for movements and maintain proper projection orientation without requiring manual intervention, thereby managing complexity through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If the projection system remains stationary, then the manufacturing precision is maintained, but the ease of operation in moving environments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveusability in moving environmentsVSAvoidprojection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The projection system is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than statically fixed. The projection heads can move and reposition themselves to compensate for movements of the supporting platform or changes in environmental conditions, maintaining projection stability while enabling operation in moving environments such as vehicles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs control circuitry that monitors the operational mode and adjusts the projection direction accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain stable projections despite movements by continuously adjusting the projection head orientation based on the selected mode and detected conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables flexible and stable projection on multiple surfaces, improving the viewing experience by adapting to environmental changes and movements, reducing motion-related discomfort and enhancing usability in diverse settings.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing electric motors and adjustment mechanisms to fine-tune the projection direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A projector can project light onto a wall for viewing by one or more individuals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight projection: Light

Data Source

PatentUS10972697B2Projection system
Publication Date: 2021.04.06 LENOVO SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • US10972697B2 patent drawing
  • US10972697B2 patent drawing
  • US10972697B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system can include a plank that includes an adjustable direction video projector; and circuitry operatively coupled to the adjustable direction video projector that selects one of a plurality of operational modes of the adjustable direction video projector and that adjusts a projection direction of the adjustable direction video projector responsive to selection of the one of the plurality of operational modes.