Light Combining Unit for Compact Laser Projection Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser projection apparatuses have a large volume due to the need for additional optical elements and beam transmission paths to combine laser light with fluorescent powder-generated beams, limiting their compactness.
Innovation Solution
A light source module with a light combining unit that includes a splitting portion and a wavelength reflecting portion, which combines the laser beam with wavelength-converted beams without requiring additional optical elements or transmission paths, reducing the overall volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If additional optical elements and beam transmission paths are used to combine laser light with fluorescent powder-generated beams, then the light combining function is achieved, but the volume of the projection apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the wavelength conversion module and light combining unit into a unified structure where the beam transmission path passes through both components sequentially. The light combining unit merges the laser beam and wavelength-converted beam within the same optical path, eliminating the need for separate combining optics and reducing overall apparatus volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam transmission path serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits the laser beam through the light combining unit, passes through the wavelength conversion module for wavelength transformation, and combines multiple beams. This multi-functional design reduces the number of dedicated components needed.
2Volume of stationary object
If a compact light source module is designed, then the volume is reduced, but the light combining function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the light combining unit and wavelength conversion module are integrated within a compact light source module. The beam transmission path is routed through both components in a space-efficient manner, with each component positioned to utilize the same optical path volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the spatial arrangement of optical components by utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently. The beam transmission path is configured to pass through components at different spatial positions and angles, allowing compact integration without compromising optical function.
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 a compact projection apparatus by eliminating the need for extra optical elements and beam paths, enhancing the laser projection apparatus's miniaturization potential.
Implementation Method 1
the laser light source has to penetrate through a fluorescent powder wheel
Implementation Method 2
The light combining unit includes a splitting portion and a wavelength reflecting portion. The beam emitted by the light source is transmitted to the wavelength conversion module after passing through the splitting portion. The splitting portion reflects the wavelength conversion beam transmitted to the splitting portion.
Data Source
AI summary
A light source module includes a light source, a wavelength conversion module, and a light combining unit. The light source provides a beam. The wavelength conversion module converts part of the beam into a wavelength conversion beam and reflects part of the beam. The light combining unit is disposed between the light source and the wavelength conversion module and located on transmission paths of the beam and the wavelength conversion beam, and includes a splitting portion and a wavelength reflecting portion. The beam is transmitted to the wavelength conversion module after passing through the splitting portion. The splitting portion reflects the wavelength conversion beam. Part of the beam is transmitted to the wavelength reflecting portion after reflected by the wavelength conversion module. The wavelength reflecting portion reflects part of the beam to combine the beam and the wavelength conversion beam into an illumination beam. A projection apparatus is also provided.