Forward Access Optical Framing Projector Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical framing projector systems lack sufficient safety and access for technicians due to high temperatures and the need for large openings in finished surfaces, which complicates adjustments and increases the risk of burns.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a forward access optical framing projector assembly with a gate rotation and locking system that allows adjustments to be made from the front, reducing the need for large openings and enhancing safety by using a light mask gate with a locking fastener parallel to the optical axis and independent shutter locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a gate rotation locking fastener is orientated perpendicular to the light axis, then the locking mechanism can be implemented, but the opening size in the finished surface plane must be large to provide side access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional perpendicular orientation of the locking fastener to a parallel orientation relative to the light axis. This inversion allows the fastener to be accessed from the front of the projector through a small opening in the finished surface plane, eliminating the need for large side access openings while maintaining full functionality of the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the dimensional orientation of the locking fastener from a perpendicular arrangement (requiring lateral access) to a parallel arrangement (enabling front access). This dimensional reconfiguration allows technicians to operate the locking mechanism through a small front opening without compromising the structural integrity or aesthetic appearance of the finished surface
2Ease of operation
If adjustments are made from the side of the projector, then the locking fastener can be positioned perpendicular to the light axis, but technicians are exposed to high temperatures and require large openings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the adjustment access direction from side access to front access. By repositioning the locking fastener parallel to the light axis, technicians can perform adjustments from the front through a small opening, keeping their hands and tools away from the high-temperature internal components while maintaining full adjustment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a forward access mechanism that acts as an intermediary, allowing technicians to operate the locking fastener and make adjustments through a small front opening without direct exposure to the hot internal components. This intermediary access path separates the technician from the harmful thermal environment while maintaining operational effectiveness
3Ease of operation
If a large opening is provided in the finished surface plane, then technician access is improved, but the aesthetic appearance and structural integrity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by moving the adjustment access from the sides (requiring large openings) to the front (allowing small openings). This inversion enables technicians to access and operate the locking fastener through a minimal opening that preserves both the aesthetic appearance and structural integrity of the finished surface while providing adequate working space
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a forward access optical framing projector assembly either forward of, or housed behind, a finished surface in which adjustments to the assembly can be made from the front end making it safer and easier to manage. The forward access design requires only a small opening behind a finished surface and can be adjusted by tool instead of hand. The invention has a light mask gate attached to a gate rotation sleeve, and a locking fastener parallel to the optical axis of the light source that pushes the light mask gate forward, making it possible to lock the light mask gate. A tool can be inserted into an opening in light masking shutters. Radial slots in a front cone flange combined with either a shutter gate with radial grooves or a nut retainer tab makes it possible to variably adjust and lock the light masking shutters.