Dual-Light Projector Optics for Actuator-Free Pixel Doubling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spatial light modulator (SLM) projection systems face challenges in achieving high pixel resolution due to non-compact optics and costly actuators, making them unsuitable for compact applications like pico-projectors.
Innovation Solution
A projector design utilizing two light sources and an image direction device that alternately projects images at different pixel positions without mechanical shifting, achieving extended pixel resolution (XPR) through angular separation and polarization techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a glass plate with actuator is used to shift pixels for extended pixel resolution, then the displayed image resolution is increased, but the device complexity and cost increase due to non-compact optics and costly actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical actuator-based glass plate shifting system with a purely optical approach using multiple fixed directing plates. Each directing plate is positioned at a specific angle to deflect light to different pixel positions, eliminating the need for mechanical movement while achieving the same pixel shifting effect for extended pixel resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the single actuator-based shifting function into multiple static directing plates, each handling a specific pixel position. Instead of one moving plate that shifts pixels dynamically, multiple fixed plates are used to redirect light to different pixel locations, segmenting the pixel position control across multiple optical elements.
2Measurement precision
If a glass plate with actuator is used to shift pixels for extended pixel resolution, then the displayed image resolution is increased, but the power dissipation increases due to actuator operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the actuator that consumes power for mechanical movement by replacing it with static optical directors. The directing plates are positioned at fixed angles during manufacturing or assembly, requiring no power for operation. Light is deflected to different pixel positions purely through optical refraction or reflection, completely eliminating the power dissipation associated with actuator operation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sub-pixel positions are used for higher XPR, then the resolution is increased, but the device complexity increases due to more directing plates needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the directing plates to serve multiple functions: each plate not only directs light to a specific pixel position but also can be used in different states (e.g., rotated or repositioned) to achieve multiple pixel positions. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of plates needed compared to having a separate plate for each pixel position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of the directing plates through rotation or repositioning mechanisms that allow each plate to serve multiple pixel positions. By making the directing plates dynamically adjustable rather than fixed, the system achieves multiple sub-pixel positions with fewer physical plates, reducing overall device complexity.
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 design achieves higher pixel density without mechanical shifting, reducing power dissipation and enabling compact, cost-effective projection systems.
Implementation Method 1
a spatial light modulator produces: first modulated light by modulating the first light; and second modulated light by modulating the second light
Implementation Method 2
An image direction device directs: the first modulated light to project a first image having a first pixel position; and the second modulated light to project a second image having a second pixel position
Data Source
AI summary
An example projector includes: a first light source to provide first light; and a second light source to provide second light. A spatial light modulator produces: first modulated light by modulating the first light; and second modulated light by modulating the second light. An image direction device directs: the first modulated light to project a first image having a first pixel position; and the second modulated light to project a second image having a second pixel position.