Aspheric Meniscus Lens for Compact Projection Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current projection systems require a longer projection distance due to the design limitations of their optical systems, which restricts the miniaturization and efficiency of projectors.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a second optical system with a convex, aspheric transmissive surface that protrudes towards the enlargement side, allowing for a shorter projection distance by refracting light fluxes more effectively and reducing the size of the optical element, while maintaining high resolution and reducing aberrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a conventional projection system is used, then the system can project images, but the projection distance is long and the system size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curved surfaces to optical elements, specifically using a meniscus lens with different radii of curvature at the object-side and image-side surfaces. The object-side surface has a larger radius of curvature than the image-side surface, creating an optimized light path that reduces projection distance while maintaining image quality. This curvature design allows for compact system configuration without sacrificing optical performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes specific parameter relationships within the projection system, including the ratio of radii of curvature (R1/R2), the position of the meniscus lens relative to other optical elements, and the focal lengths of individual lenses. By carefully controlling these parameters, the system achieves shortened projection distance while preventing aberrations and maintaining high image quality.
2Volume of moving object
If the projection system is miniaturized, then the system size is reduced, but optical performance and resolution may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The meniscus lens with optimized curvature radii enables compact system design by folding the light path more efficiently. The curved surfaces allow the optical system to achieve the required magnification and focus in a smaller physical space, reducing overall system volume while maintaining the light path length necessary for high-resolution imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains resolution by optimizing parameters such as the numerical aperture, focal ratios, and relative positions of optical elements. Even in a miniaturized configuration, the carefully selected parameter values ensure that the projection system achieves sufficient resolution for practical applications.
3Length of moving object
If the projection distance is shortened, then compactness is improved, but light loss at the periphery increases
Solution Approach 1:
The curved surfaces of the meniscus lens and other optical elements are designed to optimize the distribution of light rays across the aperture. The specific radius of curvature values ensure that peripheral rays are properly directed toward the image plane, minimizing vignetting and light loss while enabling shortened projection distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the aperture size, focal lengths, and spacing between optical elements to maximize light transmission efficiency. By carefully controlling these parameters, the system achieves short projection distance while maintaining high brightness and minimizing energy loss, particularly at the periphery of the projection field.
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
This configuration enables a shorter focal length and reduced system size, improving the projector's compactness and brightness while minimizing light loss at the periphery, thus enhancing the projection distance and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
The second transmissive surface has a convex shape protruding toward the enlargement side and has an aspheric shape... allowing for a shorter projection distance by refracting light fluxes more effectively
Implementation Method 2
The optical element has a first transmissive surface, a reflection surface disposed at the enlargement side of the first transmissive surface...
Data Source
AI summary
A projection system includes a first and second optical system including an optical element. The optical element has a first transmissive surface, a reflection surface, and a second transmissive surface. The second transmissive surface has a convex shape an aspheric shape. An effective light ray range of the second transmissive surface has a first end close to an optical axis of the reflection surface in a first axis direction along a first axis perpendicular to the optical axis and a second end far from the optical axis. A first radius of curvature at the first end is greater than a second radius of curvature at the second end, and a first center of curvature of the first radius of curvature is farther than a second center of curvature of the second radius of curvature from the first end.