Beam-Steering Projector Optics for Parallel Image Plane Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection systems face challenges in achieving high dynamic range and high resolution images due to inefficiencies in optical systems, particularly in the alignment and modulation of light beams, leading to distortions and reduced clarity.
Innovation Solution
A beam-steering projection system is implemented with a phase light modulator and a spatial light modulator, where the reconstructed image plane is parallel to the phase light modulator, and the system is configured to apply spatially-varying phase and amplitude modulations to steer light at specific angles, utilizing filters and diffusers to enhance contrast and resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional optical systems use standard illumination angles for modulators, then the system structure is simple, but image quality deteriorates due to distortions and reduced clarity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the illumination angle parameter from the standard angle to a specific optimized angle that satisfies the Scheimpflug criterion. This parameter modification enables the reconstruction plane to be parallel to the modulator surface, eliminating image distortions and improving overall image quality while maintaining reasonable system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional relationship by making the reconstruction plane parallel to the modulator surface through optimized illumination geometry. This dimensional alignment resolves the distortion problem by ensuring that the image plane and modulator plane are properly oriented relative to each other
2Manufacturing precision
If the reconstruction plane is not parallel to the modulator, then the optical path is simpler, but image distortions increase and clarity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the illumination angle parameter to satisfy the Scheimpflug criterion, which directly results in the reconstruction plane being parallel to the modulator surface. This parameter change eliminates image distortions and improves clarity without requiring complex additional optical components
3Manufacturing precision
If standard illumination angles are used for high resolution imaging, then the system is easier to implement, but dynamic range and resolution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the illumination angle from standard values to optimized values that satisfy the Scheimpflug criterion. This parameter optimization enables high resolution and high dynamic range imaging by eliminating distortions that would otherwise limit image quality, while the implementation remains straightforward
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
The system achieves improved image quality with high dynamic range and resolution by optimizing the optical path and modulations, reducing distortions and enhancing clarity through precise angle control and filtering.
Implementation Method 1
a phase light modulator configured to receive the light from the light source and to apply a spatially-varying phase modulation on the light, thereby to steer the light at an illumination angle
Implementation Method 2
a spatial light modulator configured to receive the first steered light, to apply a spatially-varying amplitude modulation on the light, to steer the light towards a projection optics system
Implementation Method 3
A plane of a secondary image constructed after the phase light modulator and before the spatial light modulator is parallel with the phase light modulator
Data Source
AI summary
A beam-steering projection system includes a light source configured to emit a light in response to image signal, a phase light modulator, and a spatial light modulator. The phase light modulator is configured to receive the light from the light source and to apply a spatially-varying phase modulation on the light, thereby to steer the light at an illumination angle and generate a first steered light. The spatial light modulator is configured to receive the first steered light, to apply a spatially-varying amplitude modulation on the light, to steer the light towards a projection optics system and to generate a second steered light. A plane of a secondary image constructed after the phase light modulator and before the spatial light modulator is parallel with the phase light modulator.