Compact Projector Light Source With Asymmetric Refracting Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light source systems for projectors are bulky due to the inclusion of multiple optical elements, which hinders their application in compact or micro projectors.
Innovation Solution
A light source system design featuring two light sources and refracting elements with different tilt angles, a reflective module, and a collimating element to optimize light beam overlap and reduce aberration, allowing for a compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple optical elements are used in the light source system, then the illumination function is improved, but the volume of the projector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical elements (refracting elements, reflective modules, collimating elements) into an integrated optical system where components are arranged in a compact configuration. The first and second refracting elements are positioned adjacent to each other, and the reflective module is integrated within the same housing, merging multiple functions into a unified structure that reduces overall projector volume while maintaining illumination performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement by positioning optical elements at different heights and angles relative to the optical axis. The collimating element is placed above the optical axis while the reflective module is positioned below, creating a vertically stacked configuration that optimizes space utilization and reduces the projector's footprint in the horizontal plane
2Illumination intensity
If refracting elements with different tilt angles are used, then light spot overlap is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different tilt angles to specific refracting elements based on their local optical requirements. The first refracting element has a first tilt angle while the second refracting element has a second tilt angle, allowing each element to be optimized for its specific position in the optical path. This localized optimization improves light spot overlap without requiring complete redesign of the entire optical system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric configuration by using refracting elements with different tilt angles rather than symmetric identical elements. The first refracting element is tilted at a different angle than the second refracting element, creating an asymmetric optical path that enables better light spot overlap and uniformity. This asymmetric design breaks the symmetry constraint and allows for optimized light distribution
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 light spot overlap and reduced aberration, making it suitable for small projectors by minimizing the overall size and enhancing optical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a collimating element (120A) having an optical axis (AX1)
Implementation Method 2
a first refracting element (130A) disposed on one of the first side and the second side of the optical axis (AX1) and configured to refract the first light beam (L1), and a second refracting element (130B) disposed on the other one of the first side and the second side of the optical axis (AX1) and configured to refract the second light beam (L2)
Implementation Method 3
a reflective module (140) configured to reflect the first light beam (L1) refracted by the first refracting element (130A) and the second light beam (L2) refracted by the second refracting element (130B)
Data Source
AI summary
A light source system includes collimating element, first light source, second light source, first refracting element, second refracting element and reflective element. The first light source is disposed on a first side of an optical axis. The second light source is disposed on the second side of the optical axis. The first refractive element is disposed on one of the first side and the second side of the optical axis and reflects a first light beam. The second refractive element is disposed on the other one of the first side and the second side of the optical axis and reflects a second light beam. The reflective element is configured to reflect the light beam. An adaxial one of the first refracting element and the second refracting element is closer to the optical axis than an abaxial one of the first refracting element and the second refracting element.