Laser Projector Brightness Control via Variable Scanning Speed
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser projection systems experience reduced visibility of projected laser line images, particularly when projecting large complex patterns under ambient conditions, due to increased scanning speed leading to dimmer and flickering images.
Innovation Solution
The method involves reducing the maximum scanning speed of the laser line image by controlling the scanning mirrors or the speed control algorithm of the laser projector, using a throttle control to modify the speed, which causes the image to flicker and thereby improves visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the scanning speed of the laser line image is increased to project larger and more complex patterns, then the projection capability and pattern complexity are improved, but the visibility and brightness of the laser image deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the scanning speed variable rather than constant. The system dynamically adjusts the scanning speed based on the specific pattern being projected and environmental conditions, allowing optimal brightness for each projection scenario while maintaining the ability to project complex patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the scanning speed parameter to resolve the contradiction. By reducing the maximum scanning speed, the system increases the dwell time of the laser on each portion of the pattern, which increases the apparent brightness and visibility of the projected image while still maintaining projection capability for complex patterns.
2Illumination intensity
If the scanning speed is reduced to improve visibility, then the brightness of the laser image is improved, but the projection speed and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically balances scanning speed and brightness based on real-time conditions. Rather than using a fixed slow speed, the system adjusts the speed profile to maintain productivity while ensuring sufficient brightness through controlled deceleration in critical areas and optimized path planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic scanning patterns where the laser beam systematically traverses the projection area in optimized cycles. This periodic action allows the system to maintain higher overall productivity while ensuring each portion of the pattern receives adequate laser exposure for visibility.
3Area of stationary object
If the maximum laser energy is distributed over a larger area to project larger patterns, then the projection area is improved, but the brightness density and visibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the laser scanning parameters based on the projection area size. For larger areas, the system optimizes the speed profile to maintain adequate brightness density across the entire area, using variable speed scanning that adapts to the spatial distribution requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes multiple parameters including scanning speed, dwell time, and potentially laser power output to maintain appropriate brightness density across varying projection areas. By adjusting these parameters, the system ensures that even when projecting over larger areas, the brightness remains sufficient for visibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser projector includes a laser, scanning mirrors projecting a laser line image on a surface, a computer including an algorithm controlling a speed of the laser line image, and a computer screen having a user interface. The user interface includes a throttle control which modifies the speed control algorithm permitting an operator to reduce the maximum speed of the projected laser line image using the throttle control, thereby improving the visibility of the laser line image. For example, a method of improving the visibility of a projected laser line image includes projecting a laser line image on a surface to determine the visibility of the laser line image and decreasing the maximum scanning speed of the projected laser line image if the visibility of the laser line image is insufficient.