Light Source Apparatus Polarization Alignment Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projector technologies face challenges in reducing the size of the light source apparatus due to the difficulty in manufacturing small-interval polarization converters required for aligning polarization directions of light fluxes, which limits the miniaturization of projectors.
Innovation Solution
A light source apparatus that outputs multiple color light fluxes with aligned polarization directions using a configuration of polarization separators, phase retarders, and wavelength converters, eliminating the need for small-interval polarization converters, and includes a homogenizer to ensure uniform illumination of the light modulator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a small-interval polarization converter is used to align polarization directions of light fluxes, then the polarization alignment is achieved, but the manufacturing difficulty increases and device size cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The polarization converter is divided into multiple polarization separation layers and reflection layers arranged in sequence. Each layer handles specific polarization components, allowing the system to achieve precise polarization alignment without requiring small intervals between components. The segmented structure enables independent optimization of each layer's function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the polarization conversion approach to three dimensions by adding phase retardation layers that operate in the depth dimension. This allows polarization conversion to occur through multiple layers rather than requiring small lateral intervals, effectively moving the solution from a 2D plane to a 3D stacked architecture.
2Manufacturing precision
If a small-interval polarization converter is used to align polarization directions, then the polarization alignment is achieved, but the device size reduction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional layers (polarization separation layers, reflection layers, phase retardation layers) are nested within each other in a stacked configuration. This nesting allows the polarization converter to achieve precise alignment functionality while maintaining a compact overall volume, as each layer contributes to the final polarization state without requiring lateral expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from lateral arrangement of polarization components to vertical stacking, utilizing the depth dimension to achieve polarization conversion. This dimensional change allows precise polarization alignment to be achieved without increasing the device's footprint area, enabling overall size reduction.
3Manufacturing precision
If a polarization converter with small interval between layers is used, then the polarization alignment is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The polarization converter is segmented into discrete functional layers with clear interfaces between them. Each layer has a specific function (polarization separation, reflection, phase retardation), which simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing each layer to be optimized and fabricated independently, then assembled in a predetermined sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary alignment marks and predetermined layer arrangements that guide the assembly process. By pre-establishing the spatial relationships and alignment references between layers before final assembly, the manufacturing complexity is reduced while maintaining precise polarization alignment.
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 projector design by ensuring aligned polarization of light fluxes without the need for small-interval polarization converters, enhancing image luminance and color reproducibility while simplifying the light source configuration.
Implementation Method 1
a first polarization separator that transmits in a first direction a first polarization component of the first light incident from the light source section along the first direction and reflects a second polarization component of the first light in a second direction that intersects the first direction
Implementation Method 2
a second polarization separator that is disposed in a position shifted in the first direction from the first polarization separator, reflects in the second direction the first polarization component incident from the first polarization separator along the first direction, transmits a third polarization component of second light that belongs to a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band in a third direction that is opposite the second direction
Implementation Method 3
a diffuser that is disposed in a position shifted in the second direction from the first polarization separator, diffuses the second polarization component incident from the first polarization separator along the second direction, and causes the diffused second polarization component to exit in the third direction
Implementation Method 4
a wavelength converter that is disposed in a position shifted in the second direction from the second polarization separator, converts a wavelength of the first polarization component incident from the second polarization separator along the second direction, and causes the second light to exit in the third direction
Implementation Method 5
a first phase retarder that is provided in an optical path of the first light between the first polarization separator and the second polarization separator and converts the first polarization component of the first light into the second polarization component
Data Source
AI summary
A light source apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a light source section, a first polarization separator that transmits a first polarization component of first light and reflects a second polarization component of the first light, a second polarization separator that reflects the first polarization component, transmits a third polarization component of second light, and reflects a fourth polarization component of the second light, a diffuser that diffuses the second polarization component and causes the diffused second polarization component, a wavelength converter that converts the wavelength of the first polarization component and causes the second light, and a first phase retarder that is provided in the optical path of the first light between the first polarization separator and the second polarization separator and converts the first polarization component of the first light into the second polarization component.