Interchangeable Optical Elements for Flexible Projection Distance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projection systems require costly modifications to change projection specifications, such as reducing the projection distance, due to the inflexibility of current optical systems.

Innovation Solution

A projection system with a first optical system and a second optical system, including interchangeable first and second optical elements, and a placement mechanism that allows selective positioning of these elements on the optical axis, enabling flexible adjustment of the projection angle without the need for extensive system changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed optical system is used, then the system structure is simple, but the projection specifications cannot be changed without incurring additional costs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection specification changeabilityVSAvoidoptical system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the optical element interchangeable between different positions (first and second positions) to change projection specifications. The optical element can be dynamically repositioned along the optical axis to switch between different projection modes, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to different requirements without requiring complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a single optical element that can perform multiple functions depending on its position. The same optical element serves different projection purposes when placed in different positions, allowing one component to fulfill multiple roles and enabling specification changes without adding entirely new components to the system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Length of moving object

If the projection distance is reduced, then the projection system becomes more compact, but the optical system requires costly modifications to achieve

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection distanceVSAvoidsystem modification cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the same optical element at different positions to achieve different projection distances. By changing the positional parameter of the optical element rather than modifying the optical system structure, the projection distance can be adjusted without incurring additional manufacturing or modification costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If interchangeable optical elements are introduced, then projection specifications can be changed easily, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection specification flexibilityVSAvoidoptical element configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the optical system into separable components - the optical element that can be independently positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows the optical element to be moved between the first and second positions to change projection specifications, providing flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This configuration allows for easy adjustment of the projection distance and angle, reducing costs and improving manufacturing efficiency while maintaining high resolution and minimizing aberrations.

Implementation Method 1

The first optical element has a first light incident surface, a first reflection surface disposed on the enlargement side of the first light incident surface, and a first light exiting surface disposed on the enlargement side of the first reflection surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The second optical element has a second light incident surface, a second reflection surface disposed on the enlargement side of the second light incident surface, and a second light exiting surface disposed on the enlargement side of the second reflection surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11333957B2Projection system and projector

Publication Date: 2022.05.17 SEIKO EPSON CORP

AI summary

A projection system includes a first optical system, a second optical system including a first optical element and a second optical element and disposed on the enlargement side of the first optical system, and a placement mechanism configured to selectively place one of the first and second optical elements on a first optical axis of the first optical system. The first optical element has a first light incident surface, a first reflection surface disposed on the enlargement side of the first light incident surface, and a first light exiting surface disposed on the enlargement side of the first reflection surface. The second optical element has a second light incident surface, a second reflection surface disposed on the enlargement side of the second light incident surface, and a second light exiting surface disposed on the enlargement side of the second reflection surface.