Dual Digital Micro-Mirror Projecting Unit for 360-Degree Panoramic Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of optical projectors capable of providing a 360-degree panoramic image limits their popularity in the consumer market, as multiple projectors are typically required to achieve this viewing angle.
Innovation Solution
A projecting device with a single projecting unit that integrates forward and backward image projection capabilities using a configuration of light-source units, digital micro-mirror units, prisms, and wide-angle lenses, allowing simultaneous projection of image signals in opposite directions to create a panoramic image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical projectors are connected together to achieve a panoramic image with a viewing angle of 360 degrees, then the panoramic viewing capability is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple projection functions into a single projector device. Specifically, it integrates a first projection unit for forward projection and a second projection unit for backward projection within one device, along with a beam splitter that directs light paths to achieve panoramic viewing capability without requiring multiple separate projectors
Solution Approach 2:
The single projector device performs multiple functions: it can project images in forward direction, backward direction, and achieve panoramic viewing angles. The beam splitter and dual projection units enable the device to handle multiple projection tasks simultaneously, making one device serve the role of what would traditionally require multiple projectors
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical projectors are connected together to achieve a panoramic image with a viewing angle of 360 degrees, then the panoramic viewing capability is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple projection systems into a single integrated device. By combining the first projection unit, second projection unit, and beam splitter into one device, it eliminates the need to manufacture and deploy multiple separate projectors, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining panoramic viewing capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical projectors are connected together to achieve a panoramic image with a viewing angle of 360 degrees, then the panoramic viewing capability is improved, but the device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the first projection unit and second projection unit within the same device housing, with the beam splitter positioned to receive and redirect light paths from both units. This nested arrangement allows multiple projection functions to coexist in a compact volume, avoiding the need for multiple separate projector units that would occupy more space
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 enables the provision of a panoramic image with a single projecting unit, reducing the device's volume and cost while offering a 360-degree viewing experience, thus making it more accessible to consumers.
Implementation Method 1
The first digital micro-mirror unit is configured to receive the first light beam and transform the first light beam into a first image signal
Implementation Method 2
The second digital micro-mirror unit is configured to receive the second light beam and transform the second light beam into a second image signal
Implementation Method 3
The first prism is configured to receive and reflect the first and second image signals, in which traveling directions of the reflected first and second image signals are opposite to each other
Implementation Method 4
The first wide-angle lens is configured to receive and project the first image signal reflected from the first prism
Implementation Method 5
The second wide-angle lens is configured to receive and project the second image signal reflected from the first prism
Data Source
AI summary
A projecting unit includes a first light-source unit, a first digital micro-mirror unit, a second light-source unit, a second digital micro-mirror unit, a first prism, a first wide-angle lens, and a second wide-angle lens. The first light-source unit is configured to provide a first light beam. The first digital micro-mirror unit is configured to receive the first light beam and transform the first light beam into a first image signal. The second light-source unit is configured to provide a second light beam. The second digital micro-mirror unit is configured to receive the second light beam and transform the second light beam into a second image signal. The first prism is configured to receive and reflect the first and second image signals. The first wide-angle lens and the second wide-angle lens are configured to receive and project the first and second image signals reflected from the first prism respectively.