Optical Device Merging Projection and Detection Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical devices for image projection and position detection face challenges in miniaturization due to independent optical mechanisms, which restrict size and geometric detection ranges.
Innovation Solution
A compact optical device that combines image projection and optical path length measurement using a shared optical path, employing a light source for projection and measurement, a moveable mirror for path alteration, and a photodetector for calculating the optical path length and object position, allowing for simultaneous image display and position detection without geometric restrictions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If independent optical mechanisms are used for image projection and position detection, then each function can be performed separately, but the device size increases and miniaturization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the image projection optical system and position detection optical system into a single integrated optical mechanism. The projection light and detection light share common optical components including the objective lens and optical path, allowing both functions to be performed simultaneously through wavelength multiplexing without requiring separate independent mechanisms, thereby achieving miniaturization while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is designed to perform multiple functions using the same components. The objective lens serves both for projecting the image and for detecting the position of reflected light. The optical path is used both for sending projection light and for receiving detection light, making the system universal and eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function
2Reliability
If independent optical mechanisms are used for image projection and position detection, then each function can be performed separately, but the position detection range is geometrically restricted
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the projection and detection optical paths, the system allows the detection range to extend across the entire image display area. The integrated design enables the detection light to follow the same optical path as the projection light, removing geometric restrictions that would exist with separate independent mechanisms and allowing versatile position detection throughout the full projection range
3Reliability
If separate optical paths are used for projection and measurement, then functional independence is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the projection and measurement optical paths into a single integrated system, reducing the number of separate optical components and mechanisms required. By using common optical elements such as the objective lens and shared optical path, the system reduces structural complexity while maintaining functional independence through wavelength-based separation of functions
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is designed with universal components that perform multiple functions. The same optical path and lenses are used for both projection and measurement, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to perform both functions independently through wavelength multiplexing
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
Enables accurate and miniaturized optical path length calculation and position detection across the entire image display range, improving detection accuracy and reducing device size while maintaining image quality and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a light source for measuring optical path length; a light source for image projection; a light projection device to project the lights from the light sources for measuring optical path length and image projection onto the same optical path
Implementation Method 2
an optical path direction changing device, that changes the optical path of the light from the light projection device by a designated angle
Implementation Method 3
a light detecting indicator that detects the reflected light from the designated target; an optical path length calculator that calculates the optical path length based on the detection results from the light detecting indicator
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an optical device includes emission of an image projecting light source and emission of an optical path length measuring light source are provided by a light projecting device and respective beams are directed to a moveable mirror. In accordance with the movement of moveable mirror, an image projecting light scans a target and an image is displayed. Reflected light is scattered from the target and reaches a photodetector. By calculating the time difference of reference light and reflected light detected by the photodetector, the distance of the optical device and a reflection point of an optical path length measuring light is computed. By combining the computed optical path length data and angle data of the moveable mirror, the reflecting point of the optical path length measuring light is determined.