Dynamic Optical Component for Keystone-Free Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional image projection systems face challenges in maintaining image quality when the projector axis is not orthogonal to the projection surface, leading to distortions such as keystoning, especially in environments where the projection surface is variable in size or position, like augmented reality settings.
Innovation Solution
An optical assembly with a throw ratio component and a dynamic optical component that allows for changes in the throw ratio and linear translation of the image without rotating the projector, using an intermediate real image plane and displacing optical components like lenses and mirrors to maintain orthogonality and reduce distortions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional image projection systems are used to project images on non-orthogonal surfaces, then the projector can reach extreme corners of projection surfaces, but image distortion such as keystoning occurs due to non-perpendicular angle between projector axis and projection surface
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple components: a fixed projector unit and a movable lens assembly. The lens assembly can be independently displaced along the optical axis to adjust focus and reduce distortion, while the projector remains stationary, maintaining image quality across different projection angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens assembly is made dynamic and movable along the optical axis, allowing real-time adjustment of lens position to compensate for projection angle variations. This dynamic adjustment maintains image sharpness and reduces keystoning effect when projecting at extreme corners or non-orthogonal surfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional systems adjust image size to fit projection surfaces, then the image can adapt to different surface sizes, but significant complexity is introduced into the system
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the optical parameter of lens position along the optical axis to adapt image size and focus. By moving the lens assembly to different positions, the system adjusts the projection characteristics without requiring complex mechanical adjustments or multiple optical components, simplifying the overall system while maintaining adaptability.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional projection systems project at extreme corners, then coverage area is maximized, but other forms of distortion or noise are increased in the projected image
Solution Approach 1:
The movable lens assembly acts as an intermediary between the fixed projector and the projection surface. It mediates the optical path by adjusting lens position to compensate for distortion and noise that would otherwise occur when projecting at extreme corners, thereby maintaining image quality while maximizing coverage area.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical assembly includes an imaging element to generate an image and a module configured to adjust a throw ratio of the image which also forms an intermediate real image at an intermediate real image plane. A dynamic optical component positioned relative to the optical path to receive the intermediate real image is configured with one or more optical components which laterally translate a projected image without keystone distortion.