Micro-Mirror Image Refresh Rate Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image projection technologies fail to efficiently synchronize the image refresh rate with the mechanical properties of projection devices, leading to unfavorable operation in certain frequency ranges, which can result in image quality deterioration.

Innovation Solution

A device and method that adapt the image refresh rate to the characteristics of the micro-mirror device, including stopping or omitting lines and adjusting based on operating conditions, to optimize projection frequency ranges, thereby avoiding mechanical stress and improving image quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the image refresh rate is synchronized with the video signal, then the projection accuracy is improved, but the mechanical stress on the micro-mirror device increases when operating in unfavorable frequency ranges

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection accuracyVSAvoidmechanical stress on micro-mirror device
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the image refresh rate based on the operating conditions of the micro-mirror device. When the device operates in unfavorable frequency ranges, the system changes the refresh rate parameter to match the mechanical characteristics of the micro-mirror device, thereby reducing mechanical stress while maintaining projection accuracy. This is achieved through a control unit that monitors device status and modifies the refresh rate accordingly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Stress or pressure

If the image refresh rate is adapted to the micro-mirror device characteristics, then the mechanical stress is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical stressVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the micro-mirror device to autonomously provide information about its operational state and mechanical characteristics to the control unit. The device self-monitors its conditions and triggers appropriate refresh rate adjustments without external intervention, reducing the complexity of external control mechanisms while still achieving stress reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where the control unit receives information about the micro-mirror device's operational status and adjusts the image refresh rate accordingly. This closed-loop feedback allows the system to adapt to changing conditions automatically, managing device complexity through intelligent control rather than additional hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If the projection operates in unfavorable frequency ranges, then the productivity is maintained, but the image quality deteriorates due to mechanical limitations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection throughputVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the image refresh rate adjustable rather than fixed. The system dynamically adapts the refresh rate to match the micro-mirror device's mechanical capabilities in real-time, ensuring that projection operates at optimal frequencies for both productivity and image quality. This dynamic adjustment prevents quality deterioration while maintaining high projection throughput.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 effectively synchronizes the image refresh rate with the micro-mirror device's mechanical properties, reducing mechanical stress and improving image quality by operating within favorable frequency ranges, thus enhancing the projection process.

Implementation Method 1

a micro-mirror device (41) which is designed to execute oscillatory movements on the basis of incoming movement and deflection signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9414012B2Device for projecting an image, portable mobile device comprising a corresponding device, and a method for projecting an image
Publication Date: 2016.08.09 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US9414012B2 patent drawing
  • US9414012B2 patent drawing
  • US9414012B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for projecting an image includes: a video signal device designed to provide a video signal that has a first image refresh rate; a mirror control device designed to control a micro-mirror device with a second image refresh rate adapted to at least one characteristic of the micro-mirror device and to the first image refresh rate; and a projection device designed to project the video signal provided by the video signal device with the first image refresh rate, using the micro-mirror device moved by the second image refresh rate.