Laser Projection Module Layout for Level Raster Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image projection systems project two-dimensional images at an angle relative to the support, resulting in tilted images on planar surfaces, which are undesirable for level viewing.
Innovation Solution
A compact, portable image projection module that uses a laser assembly, scanner, and controller to project a raster pattern of scan lines along mutually orthogonal directions parallel to the support dimensions, ensuring the image is level and eliminating tilting, with a combination of red, blue, and green lasers and inertial and electromagnetic drives for efficient scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If scan mirrors oscillate in mutually orthogonal directions to scan a laser beam over a raster pattern, then a two-dimensional image can be projected, but the image is tilted relative to the support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by mounting the scan mirrors at non-orthogonal angles relative to the support plane. Specifically, the first scan mirror is mounted at a first angle and the second scan mirror is mounted at a second angle, where these angles are not equal to 90 degrees. This asymmetric mounting configuration transforms the traditionally orthogonal raster scan into a skewed coordinate system that projects level images onto the display surface, eliminating the tilt problem while maintaining accurate two-dimensional image projection.
2Volume of moving object
If a compact, portable image projection module is designed, then the system becomes suitable for various form factors, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into a single integrated projection module. The laser assembly, both scan mirrors, mounting structure with angled supports, and optical elements are combined into one compact unit. This consolidation achieves miniaturization suitable for portable applications while the modular design with pre-defined angular mounting relationships simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process by establishing clear geometric relationships between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular mounting dimensions for the scan mirrors that differ from the traditional orthogonal configuration. By mounting mirrors at specific non-orthogonal angles, the system creates a skewed coordinate system that enables level image projection in a compact form factor. This dimensional transformation allows the projection module to achieve both small size and proper image orientation simultaneously.
3Measurement precision
If red, blue, and green lasers are combined to produce color images, then high-definition color projection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple laser sources (red, blue, and green lasers) that each serve the dual function of providing both the scanning mechanism and the color information for image projection. These lasers are integrated into a single optical path that shares the scan mirrors and mounting structure, allowing one set of mechanical components to serve multiple wavelength functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality approach achieves high-definition color projection while reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate systems for each color.
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 provides a level, high-resolution, compact image projection system that is suitable for various form factors, reducing power consumption and noise, and capable of projecting high-definition images with minimal vibration and flicker.
Implementation Method 1
a laser assembly on the support, for generating a laser beam; Preferably, the lasers include red and blue, semiconductor lasers for respectively generating red and blue laser beams, and a diode-pumped YAG laser and an optical frequency doubler for producing a green laser beam
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the scan mirrors is oscillated by an inertial drive
Implementation Method 3
a first oscillatable scan mirror operative for sweeping the composite beam along a first direction at a first scan rate and over a first scan angle, and a second oscillatable scan mirror for sweeping the composite beam along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction
Implementation Method 4
An optical assembly is provided on the support, for focusing and nearly collinearly arranging the laser beams to form the laser beam as a composite beam
Implementation Method 5
a scanner on the support, for projecting the laser beam as a pattern of scan lines on a generally planar projection surface at a distance from the support
Data Source
AI summary
A lightweight, compact image projection module, especially for mounting in a housing having a light-transmissive window, is operative for sweeping a composite laser beam as a pattern of scan lines on a planar projection surface and for causing selected pixels arranged along each scan line to be illuminated to produce an image, especially in color. The raster pattern extends along mutually orthogonal directions that are generally parallel to mutually orthogonal dimensions of a support of the module. The image is level with the horizontal.