Compact Projector via Parallel Optical Axis Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image projection apparatuses are elongated in the direction orthogonal to the projection plane, which limits installation space and convenience, especially in narrow indoor settings, and can interfere with other ceiling-mounted equipment when installed.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus is configured with the light source, image generating unit, illumination unit, first optical system, and second optical system arranged in a direction parallel to the projection plane, utilizing a first optical system with refractive elements and a second optical system with a reflection element to shorten the orthogonal length, allowing for compact installation without interfering with surrounding furniture or ceiling-mounted equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the light source, illumination unit, and optical systems are arranged side by side in series in the direction orthogonal to the projection plane, then the optical path is simplified and image quality is maintained, but the apparatus becomes elongated in the direction orthogonal to the projection plane, requiring more installation space and limiting convenience in narrow indoor settings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by reorienting the arrangement of optical components from the direction orthogonal to the projection plane to the direction parallel to the projection plane. Specifically, the light source unit, illumination unit, and optical systems are arranged along the optical axis direction (parallel to projection plane) rather than extending in the direction orthogonal to it, thereby reducing the apparatus length in the orthogonal direction while maintaining optical performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by placing the light source unit between the illumination unit and the image generating element, rather than positioning it at the traditional end of the optical path. This inversion allows the optical components to be compacted in the direction orthogonal to the projection plane while maintaining proper optical functionality
2Reliability
If the apparatus is elongated in the direction orthogonal to the projection plane, then proper optical path configuration is achieved, but installation space is required in that direction and the layout space for desk and chair is limited, impairing convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the spatial arrangement from extending in the direction orthogonal to the projection plane to extending in the direction parallel to the projection plane. The light source unit, illumination unit, and optical systems are configured to work effectively along the optical axis direction, thereby maintaining proper optical path configuration while reducing the footprint in the direction that affects installation space and user convenience
3Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus is hung from the ceiling, then installation flexibility is improved, but the elongated configuration may interfere with lighting equipment or other ceiling-mounted equipment, limiting installation options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables ceiling installation without interference by reorienting the apparatus configuration so that its main extension is parallel to the projection plane rather than orthogonal to it. This dimensional change allows the apparatus to be mounted on the ceiling with its components arranged along the optical axis direction, preventing interference with other ceiling-mounted equipment while maintaining installation flexibility
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 reduces the apparatus's length orthogonal to the projection plane, preventing space conflicts with desks, chairs, and ceiling-mounted lighting, enhancing installation flexibility and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical system (70) including a plurality of transmission refractive optical elements
Implementation Method 2
a second optical system including a concave mirror (42)
Implementation Method 3
When the micromirror is in the 'ON' state, the micromirror reflects light from the light source toward the projection optical system
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
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AI summary
Provided is an image projection apparatus, such as a projector 1, including a light source (60); an image generating element such as a DMD (12) that receives light from the light source (60) and forms an image; an image generating unit (20) that irradiates the image generating element with the light from the light source (60); a first optical system (70) including multiple transmission refractive optical elements; a second optical system arranged on an optical path of outgoing light of the first optical system and including a reflection optical element; and a projection optical system that enlarges and projects an image conjugate to the image generated by the image generating element as a projected image. The light source (60), the image generating unit (20), and the first optical system (70) are arranged side by side in series in a direction parallel with the projected image plane.