DMD and TIR Unit for Dual Projection Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image projection and detection apparatuses require complex structures and increased size and cost due to the use of actuators to switch between image projection and image detection functions.
Innovation Solution
An image projection and detection apparatus utilizing a digital micro-mirror device (DMD) and a total internal reflection (TIR) unit, where micro-mirror structures switch between on-state and off-state to form optical paths for image projection and detection, eliminating the need for additional devices like actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an actuator is used to switch between image projection and image detection functions, then the apparatus can perform both functions, but the structure becomes complex and the size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The DMD device serves multiple functions: it acts as a reflection mirror for image projection when micro-mirrors are in the first state, and as a beam splitter for image detection when micro-mirrors are in the second state. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actuators and achieves dual function capability without increasing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical actuator system with an optical control system using the DMD's micro-mirror states. Instead of mechanically moving components to switch between projection and detection modes, the system uses electrical control of micro-mirror orientations to achieve the same functional switching, thereby reducing mechanical complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If an actuator is used to switch between image projection and image detection functions, then the apparatus can perform both functions, but the size of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the reflection mirror and beam splitter into a single DMD device. By combining these optical components and their switching mechanism into one integrated device, the overall apparatus size is reduced compared to having separate components for each function
3Adaptability or versatility
If an actuator is used to switch between image projection and image detection functions, then the apparatus can perform both functions, but the material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The DMD device provides dual function capability through its micro-mirror states, eliminating the need for separate actuators, reflection mirrors, and beam splitters. This reduction in component count directly lowers material costs while maintaining versatility
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 solution results in a simpler, smaller, and more cost-effective apparatus with improved projection and detection capabilities, as the optical paths for image projection and detection are formed by the on-state and off-state of micro-mirror structures, respectively, without relying on other devices.
Implementation Method 1
The first prism has a light-incident surface and a first total reflection surface. The illumination beam from the illumination system enters the first prism through the light-incident surface, and is totally reflected to the DMD by the first total reflection surface.
Implementation Method 2
The object beam reflected by at least a part of the micro-mirror structures in the off-state sequentially passes through the first total reflection surface, the first gap and the first optical surface, and is totally reflected to the optical detector by the second total reflection surface.
Implementation Method 3
When at least a part of the micro-mirror structures are in the on-state, they reflect the illumination beam into an image beam, and the image beam is transmitted to an object side. When at least a part of the micro-mirror structures are in the off-state, they reflect an object beam from the object side to the optical detector.
Data Source
AI summary
An image projection and detection apparatus including an illumination system, a digital micro-mirror device (DMD), an optical detector, and a total internal reflection (TIR) unit is provided. The illumination system provides an illumination beam. The DMD is disposed in an optical path of the illumination beam, and includes a plurality of micro-mirror structures switched between an on-state and an off-state. When at least a part of the micro-mirror structures are in the on-state, they reflect the illumination beam into an image beam transmitted to an object side. When at least a part of micro-mirror structures are in the off-state, they reflect an object beam from the object side to the optical detector. The TIR unit includes a first TIR surface and a second TIR surface. The first TIR surface totally reflects the illumination beam to the DMD. The second TIR surface totally reflects the object beam to the optical detector.