Micro-projector Clipping Structure for Portable Computers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional micro-projectors require a large space for setup due to their need for a carrying surface, which is not suitable for portable computers.

Innovation Solution

A micro-projector design that includes a projecting device and a clipping structure, allowing the projector to clip onto a portable computer, eliminating the need for a separate carrying surface, and optionally utilizing wireless communication and a reflector for flexible projection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the projector is disposed on a carrying surface such as a desk-top, then the projector can be stably positioned and operated, but the space occupied by the projector becomes relatively large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojector positioning stabilityVSAvoidspace occupied by projector
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the projector with a portable computer by clipping the projector onto the computer's display or surface. The projector's clipping structure engages with the computer's display edges, merging two devices into a compact integrated system that eliminates the need for separate carrying surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The projector is nested onto the portable computer's display surface through the clipping structure. The projector sits on top of and is supported by the computer's display, utilizing the computer's form factor as the carrying surface and significantly reducing the total space required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Area of stationary object

If the projector is integrated with the portable computer through clipping, then the space occupied is reduced, but the complexity of the device structure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace occupied by projectorVSAvoidclipping structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clipping structure is segmented into distinct functional components: clipping elements that engage with the display edges, a support surface for the projector, and positioning features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design and manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of attaching the computer to the projector, the design inverts the attachment relationship by having the projector clip onto the computer's display. This inversion leverages the computer's existing structure as the mounting base, reducing the complexity of creating a dedicated mounting system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of operation

If the projector clips onto the portable computer, then portability and convenience are improved, but the precision of image projection may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveportability and convenienceVSAvoidimage projection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The clipping structure includes pre-designed positioning features and alignment guides that automatically align the projector with the display surface when clipped. This preliminary alignment action ensures consistent projection positioning without requiring manual adjustment, maintaining precision while preserving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The clipping structure is designed to self-align and self-position the projector onto the display surface through geometric constraints and engagement features. The structure automatically compensates for minor variations in display dimensions, maintaining projection precision without requiring external calibration or adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9122141B2Micro-projector with clipping structure
Publication Date: 2015.09.01 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • US9122141B2 patent drawing
  • US9122141B2 patent drawing
  • US9122141B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A micro-projector applied to a portable computer includes a projecting device and a clipping structure. The projecting device is capable of communicating with the portable computer through signals and projecting a projection light. The clipping structure is capable of clipping the portable computer selectively. The projecting device is disposed on the clipping structure.