Dual-Axis Mirror Projection Direction Change Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projection direction change devices require large mirrors to achieve widespread projection directions, which can lead to interference with the projector's lens unit and result in increased device sizes.

Innovation Solution

A projection direction change device with a mirror that is rotatably supported around two axes, where the intersecting point of these axes is positioned closer to the projection lens unit than the mirror's geometric barycenter, allowing for increased rotation angles without enlarging the device, and incorporating a mirror controller for precise drive control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the inclination angle of the mirror is increased to project images in widespread directions, then the projection direction range is improved, but the mirror size must be increased which may contact the projection lens unit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection direction rangeVSAvoidmirror size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from single-axis mirror rotation to dual-axis rotation, adding a rotational dimension around a second axis that is inclined relative to the first axis. This dimensional change enables the mirror to achieve widespread projection directions through combined rotational movements without requiring excessive mirror size or inclination angles that would cause interference with the projection lens unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a large mirror is used to achieve widespread projection directions, then the projection direction range is improved, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection direction rangeVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic dual-axis rotation of the mirror rather than relying on a statically large mirror. By enabling the mirror to rotate around two inclined axes, the system achieves adaptable projection directions through movement, allowing a smaller mirror and compact device structure to provide the same versatility as a larger static mirror would require.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the mirror inclination angle is increased, then the projection direction range is improved, but the mirror may contact the projection lens unit causing interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection direction rangeVSAvoidinterference with projection lens unit
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dual-axis rotation mechanism as an intermediary between the mirror and the projection lens unit. This intermediate rotational structure allows the mirror to change projection directions through controlled rotation around two inclined axes, preventing direct contact or interference with the projection lens unit while still achieving widespread projection coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 wider range of projection directions while minimizing the device's size and reducing drive loads, allowing the mirror to be downsized and the system to maintain effective operation without interfering with the projection lens unit.

Implementation Method 1

a mirror that reflects light emitted from a projection lens unit of a projector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11599014B2Projection direction change device and image projection system
Publication Date: 2023.03.07 PANASONIC PROJECTOR & DISPLAY CORPORATION
  • US11599014B2 patent drawing
  • US11599014B2 patent drawing
  • US11599014B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A projection direction change device includes a mirror that reflects light emitted from a projection lens unit of a projector, a mirror support part that rotatably supports the mirror around a first axis and a second axis, a first drive part that rotary drives the mirror around the first axis, and a second drive part that rotary drives the mirror around the second axis. An intersecting point of the first and second axes is positioned closer to the projection lens unit than a geometric barycenter of the mirror is.