Optical Element for Compact Projector Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image projection systems require a large number of optical components and high numerical apertures, imposing stringent conditions on the configuration of projection lenses, particularly in shallow-depth projectors, which limits efficiency and increases complexity.
Innovation Solution
An optical system with a source of illumination focused on a focusing zone, utilizing collimating means and an optical element with a redirecting surface to adapt the illuminating beam for the imager, reducing the number of optical components and optimizing beam divergence to less than 6°, thereby simplifying the projector design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional illumination systems use multiple optical components (light guide, relay lenses), then the beam can be converted to rectangular cross section and made spatially uniform, but the number of optical components increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple separate optical components (light guide and relay lenses) into a single optical element. This single element performs both beam rectangularization and spatial uniformity generation, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the required beam quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it converts the circular beam cross section to rectangular, creates spatial uniformity, and controls beam direction. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function.
2Reliability
If conventional systems use multiple relay lenses to image the light guide exit onto the imager, then proper illumination can be achieved, but the numerical aperture requirements increase imposing draconian conditions on the projection lens
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the light guide and relay lens functions into a single optical element, the system reduces the total number of interfaces and optical paths. This simplification relaxes the numerical aperture requirements that would otherwise be imposed by multiple separate lenses, particularly on the projection lens in shallow-depth configurations.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional illumination systems use a rectangular light guide and multiple relay lenses, then the beam can be properly shaped and directed, but the overall system size and depth increase
Solution Approach 1:
The consolidation of multiple optical components into a single element dramatically reduces the axial length of the illumination system. This single element achieves the same beam shaping functionality that previously required a sequence of components spanning several centimeters, thereby enabling compact projector designs.
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 reduces the number of optical components, enhances efficiency, and allows for more compact and cost-effective projector designs with improved uniformity and contrast, while maintaining high flux and aperture performance.
Implementation Method 1
the first surface refracts the illuminating beam
Implementation Method 2
the first surface reflects the illuminating beam
Implementation Method 3
collimating means for collimating the illuminating beam originating from the focusing zone
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an optical system comprising:at least one source of illumination designed to produce an illuminating beam; andat least one imager able to produce an imaging beam when illuminated by the said illuminating beam;the said system being characterized in that it further comprises:collimating means for collimating the said illuminating beam; andat least one optical element comprising, on a first surface, means for redirecting part of the said illuminating beam towards the said imager, so as to illuminate the said imager and for adapting the shape of the said beam to suit the said imager.