Multi-Channel Projection Display for Compact High-Brightness Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical projection systems face challenges in brightness, miniaturization, and efficiency, particularly in mobile imaging systems, due to limitations in luminous flux and system size, as well as speckle structures and resolution in scanning laser projectors.
Innovation Solution
A digital projection display utilizing a two-dimensional matrix of reflective pixelated DMDs with controlled deflection angles, combined with a two-dimensional optical channel arrangement, allowing for superimposed images and efficient use of optical elements for both illumination and projection, reducing system size and increasing brightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If miniaturization is performed in projection systems, then system size is reduced, but brightness in the projected image is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The projection system is divided into multiple optical channels (e.g., 9 channels arranged in a 3x3 matrix), each with its own projection lens and DMD device. This segmentation allows the system to maintain compact dimensions while collectively providing sufficient luminous flux for bright projection by combining the output of multiple channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-channel one-dimensional projection approach to a multi-channel two-dimensional array arrangement. The optical channels are arranged in a matrix pattern, utilizing spatial distribution in two dimensions to achieve both miniaturization and maintained brightness through parallel projection paths.
2Device complexity
If single-channel projection systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but overall system length increases to maintain projection brightness
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single long optical path, the system segments the projection function across multiple short optical channels arranged in parallel. Each channel has its own compact projection lens and DMD, allowing the overall system length to be reduced while maintaining total luminous flux output.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple optical channels are merged into a single projection system with unified control and image synthesis. The individual projections from multiple channels are combined to form the final projected image, achieving both compactness and adequate brightness.
3Volume of moving object
If scanning laser projectors are used for miniaturization, then system size is reduced, but speckle structures appear and resolution is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the speckle-generating laser scanning mechanism and replaces it with DMD-based spatial light modulation. This removes the harmful speckle structures while maintaining the compact form factor, as the DMD uses reflective pixelated surfaces rather than coherent laser scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, high-power single-mode lasers with lower-cost, lower-power laser diodes or LED light sources in combination with DMD devices. This substitution maintains adequate projection brightness while eliminating speckle and reducing system cost and complexity.
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
Achieves high brightness, compactness, and efficiency with a minimum number of components, enabling super-resolution and uniform light distribution across large projection areas.
Implementation Method 1
at least one reflective image generator (120) which is designed to display individual images in a two-dimensional distribution (122) of partial areas (124) of the same
Implementation Method 2
a projection optics arrangement (130) with a two-dimensional arrangement (132) of projection optics (134) which is configured to image an associated partial area (125) of the at least one image generator (120) onto an image plane (150) in each case
Implementation Method 3
at least one beam splitter (140) which is arranged in a beam path between the at least one reflective image sensor (120) and the two-dimensional arrangement (132) of projection optics (134), on the one hand, and the beam path between the at least one light source (110) and the at least one reflective image sensor (120), on the other hand
Data Source
AI summary
A projection display includes a light source, and at least one assembly. Each assembly has an optical element and at least two individual optical channels. Each of the optical channels are formed of a surface light modulator which influences a light propagation direction pixel by pixel. For all of the individual optical channels of the assembly, a cross-channel totality of optical elements of all individual optical channels illuminates the surface light modulator when light enters the assembly so that the optical element of the individual optical channel images a light which is reflected at the surface light modulator as an object structure and all images of the individual optical channels are superimposed to form one or more virtual or real overall images on a screen.