Dual-Function Lens Offset for Integrated Image Capture and Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable and hand-held devices with image capture functions have limited image display capabilities due to their small size and fixed display panels, restricting their applications.
Innovation Solution
An integrated system with both image capture and display capabilities, utilizing a dual-function lens and an optical element, where the image sensor and light valve are offset from the optical axis, allowing for shared lens usage and varying display sizes, and employing a light valve with individually addressable pixels for projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a shared optical element is used for both image capture and projection, then system size and cost are reduced, but optical axis alignment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using a single optical element (lens) to perform both image capture and image projection functions. The optical element is optically coupled to both the image sensor array and the light valve array, allowing it to serve dual purposes in the integrated system, thereby reducing system size and eliminating the need for separate lenses for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetry by deliberately offsetting the optical axes of the image sensor array and the light valve array relative to the optical element. Instead of aligning both arrays coaxially with the optical element, the invention positions them at different locations, creating non-coaxial optical paths that enable both functions to share the same optical element while maintaining proper optical alignment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image sensor and light valve are offset from the optical axis, then display size flexibility is improved, but optical alignment difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional coaxial arrangement to a two-dimensional spatial configuration by offsetting the image sensor and light valve to different locations relative to the optical element. This dimensional change allows the system to achieve variable display sizes through the light valve's positioning while maintaining proper optical coupling, enabling flexibility in display dimensions without requiring coaxial alignment.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single optical element is used for both capture and projection, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost by specifying a single optical element that serves both image capture and projection functions, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble separate lenses for each function. This multi-functional approach simplifies the bill of materials and assembly processes while maintaining optical performance.
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
Enables efficient image capture and display functions in a compact form, reducing system size and cost while providing flexible display options and improved image quality.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor comprising an array of pixels optically coupled to the optical element such that an image of an object can be captured by the image sensor through the optical element
Implementation Method 2
a light valve comprising an array of individually addressable pixels that are optical coupled to the optical element such that a light beam from each pixel can be projected on a screen by the optical element so as to form an image on the screen
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated system comprises a light valve and an image sensor for image display and image capture. The image sensor and the light valve share a common dual-function lens by positioning the light valve and image sensor at locations offset from the optical axis of the dual-function lens.