Compact Projection System Using Folded Optical Path Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projector designs face challenges in reducing the size of the optical system while maintaining high-definition image display, often resulting in increased complexity and length due to the need for multiple lenses, which complicates aberration correction and interferes with other components.
Innovation Solution
A compact projection system using a relay system with a first lens element, a reflective member, and a second lens element, where the reflective member folds the optical path, reducing the overall length and eliminating color aberrations, and allowing for a high degree of freedom in positioning, while using symmetric lens elements to simplify assembly and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a relay system with multiple lenses is used to achieve high-definition image display, then the image quality is improved, but the overall length of the optical system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflective member to fold the optical path, transforming the linear arrangement of lenses into a compact folded configuration. This allows the optical system to achieve high-definition imaging capability while significantly reducing the overall length by utilizing spatial folding rather than extending the optical path linearly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple lens elements into integrated lens groups where the first and second lens elements work together with the reflective member as a unified optical train. This merging approach maintains the high-definition imaging function while reducing the number of separate components and their associated mounting spaces
2Manufacturing precision
If a relay system with a large number of lenses is used to achieve high-definition image display, then the image quality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the color aberration correction function from the lens design by introducing a reflective member that does not produce color aberrations. This separation allows the lens elements to focus on resolution while the reflective member handles path folding without adding chromatic complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using a reflective member with positive refracting power equivalent, transforming the optical path without requiring additional lens elements. This parameter substitution maintains imaging performance while simplifying the overall system configuration
3Length of stationary object
If the optical system is designed to achieve ultra-short focal length, then the back focal length is reduced, but the number of lenses required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the reflective member to fold the optical path in a dimensional sense, allowing the achievement of ultra-short back focal length without requiring additional lens elements. The folded configuration enables compact back focal distance while maintaining the necessary optical power with fewer components
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 a compact, high-definition projection system with reduced size and complexity, suppressing color aberrations and allowing for easier assembly and adjustment, while maintaining a short back focal length for high-quality image display.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens element on which light having exited through a first image plane is incident, the first lens element having positive refracting power
Implementation Method 2
a reflective member that reflects light having passed through the first lens element, the reflective member having positive refracting power
Implementation Method 3
a second lens element on which light reflected off the reflective member is incident and which focuses the incident light reflected off the reflective member on the second image plane, the second lens element having positive refracting power
Data Source
AI summary
A projection system includes: a relay system that focuses light having exited through a first image plane on a second image plane; and an enlarging system that enlarges and projects an image focused on the second image plane on a third image plane, wherein the relay system includes a first lens element on which the light having exited through the first image plane is incident, the first lens element having positive refracting power, a reflective member that reflects a light having passed through the first lens element, the reflective member having positive refracting power, and a second lens element on which a light reflected off the reflective member is incident and which focuses the light reflected off the reflective member on the second image plane, the second lens element having positive refracting power.