Floating Image Projector With Angled Reflective Surface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices fail to captivate young readers' attention effectively due to short attention spans and learning difficulties, necessitating a device that combines engaging visual and audio elements to enhance storytelling experiences.

Innovation Solution

A projector system with a semi-transparent or transparent planar reflective surface angled to project an image that creates a floating illusion, accompanied by an audio system, controlled by a controller and powered by a battery or adapter, using unique identifiers for personalized storytelling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional reading device is used, then the device structure is simple, but it fails to captivate young readers' attention due to lack of engaging visual elements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengagement capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a projector, audio system, and controller into a single integrated housing structure. The projector projects images onto a semi-transparent reflective surface inside the housing, while the audio system provides synchronized sound, creating a multi-sensory storytelling device that captivates young readers' attention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a semi-transparent or transparent planar reflective surface positioned at an angle to the projected light source, creating a floating image illusion that appears to hover within the housing. This adds a three-dimensional visual dimension to the traditional two-dimensional reading experience

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Illumination intensity

If a floating image illusion is created using a semi-transparent reflective surface, then visual engagement is enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage visibilityVSAvoidoptical system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a semi-transparent or transparent planar reflective surface as an intermediary between the projector and the viewer. This surface reflects projected light to create the floating image illusion while allowing light transmission, thereby enhancing image visibility without requiring complex optical components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent positions the planar reflective surface at a specific angle (ideally 45 degrees) to the projected light source axis, optimizing the reflection angle to direct light toward the viewer and create the desired floating image effect within the housing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system captivates young readers with floating images and synchronized audio, enhancing engagement and enjoyment in reading and storytelling.

Implementation Method 1

a semi-transparent or transparent, planar reflective surface spaced apart from the projector and positioned to receive the projected light source from the projector thereon, in which the planar reflective surface extends at an angle to an axis defined by the projected light source to produce a floating image within the upper transparent portion of the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20260079387A1Projector system
Publication Date: 2026.03.19 JONES ANDREW
  • US20260079387A1 patent drawing
  • US20260079387A1 patent drawing
  • US20260079387A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a projector system comprising: a housing comprising: a lower portion comprising: a base for positioning on a contact surface; and a projector positioned to project a projected light source outwardly from the base; and an upper transparent portion comprising: a semi-transparent or transparent, planar reflective surface spaced apart from the projector and positioned to receive the projected light source from the projector thereon, in which the semi-transparent or transparent, planar reflective surface extends at an angle to an axis defined by the projected light source to produce a floating image within the upper transparent portion of the housing.