Dual-Mode Projection Apparatus for Laser Spot Remote Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current digital image projectors and laser pointers require cumbersome command switches for remote control functions, limiting their usability and accuracy, and are not capable of controlling devices beyond presentation computers.

Innovation Solution

A dual-mode projection apparatus that combines image projection and capture capabilities, using an image sensor module to determine the spatial and temporal characteristics of a visible light spot from a laser pointer and transmit these characteristics to a remote device for control, eliminating the need for command switches and expanding control capabilities to various devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If command switches are integrated into laser pointers for remote control, then control functionality is provided, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to cumbersome switch operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control functionalityVSAvoidusability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical switch system with an optical detection system. Instead of requiring users to press physical switches on the laser pointer, the system uses an image sensor to detect the position and characteristics of the laser spot on the projection surface, automatically translating this into control commands for the remote device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables the laser pointer to control remote devices autonomously through its own optical output. The laser spot's position and characteristics on the projection surface are automatically detected and processed to generate control signals, eliminating the need for separate command switches or manual operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If image sensors are integrated into projection devices to detect laser spots, then measurement precision of light spot position is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight spot position detection accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the projection device multi-functional by integrating an image sensor that serves dual purposes: capturing the projected image for display and detecting the laser spot position for control. This eliminates the need for separate detection hardware while enabling precise measurement of light spot characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 seamless remote control of devices like computers, video game players, and satellite receivers by simply positioning a light pointer, enhancing user experience and functionality without the need for manual switch operation.

Implementation Method 1

an image sensor module for capturing images of the projection surface and determining spatial and temporal characteristics of a visible light spot superimposed on the projection surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS7862179B2Dual-mode projection apparatus and method for locating a light spot in a projected image
Publication Date: 2011.01.04 OMNIVISION TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US7862179B2 patent drawing
  • US7862179B2 patent drawing
  • US7862179B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A dual-mode projection apparatus has a projection module for projecting an image onto a projection surface. An image sensor module captures images of the projection surface and determines spatial and temporal characteristics of a visible light spot superimposed on the projection surface. A communications module transmits the spatial and temporal characteristics of the visible light spot to a remote device for remote control of the device based on the spatial and temporal characteristics of the visible light spot.