Optical Scanning Video Projection Device Height Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in downsizing optical beam projection devices, particularly in reducing the height of two-dimensional optical scanning type video projection devices for applications like spectacle displays, where conventional configurations result in increased height due to the tilting of optical scanning mirror devices.
Innovation Solution
The configuration involves a first substrate with an optical waveguide type multiplexer and a second substrate with a movable optical scanning mirror device, where the light beam is guided in a direction different from its emission, with both substrates disposed parallel to each other, allowing for a compact design by eliminating the need for tilting and reducing the overall height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the optical scanning mirror device is tilted to achieve proper light beam reflection, then the optical scanning function is achieved, but the height of the video projection device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional tilted mirror configuration (requiring vertical height) to a parallel substrate configuration where light guidance occurs in the horizontal plane through optical waveguides. This dimensional change allows the system to achieve the same optical scanning function without increasing device height, as the light path is redirected from a vertical tilt arrangement to a planar waveguide-based guidance system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical waveguides as intermediary elements between the light source and the scanning mirror. These waveguides mediate the light transmission, allowing the light beam to be guided from the first substrate to the second substrate without requiring the scanning mirror to be tilted. The waveguides effectively decouple the optical guidance function from the mechanical tilt requirement, enabling a compact parallel substrate design.
2Length of stationary object
If the substrates are disposed in parallel to reduce device height, then the height is decreased, but the light beam guidance in a direction different from emission becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tilt arrangement with an optical waveguide-based guidance system. Instead of mechanically tilting the scanning mirror substrate to achieve proper light reflection, the system uses optical waveguides to guide the light beam in the required direction. This substitution of mechanical orientation with optical guidance reduces device height while the waveguide structure manages the directional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical waveguides serve multiple functions: they transmit light from the light source, guide the light in the required direction, and enable the parallel substrate configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby managing complexity while achieving the compact design.
3Ease of operation
If conventional tilting configuration is used, then optical scanning is achieved, but fabrication costs increase due to complex wire bonding requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes from a three-dimensional tilted mirror arrangement to a two-dimensional parallel substrate configuration with planar light guidance. This dimensional simplification makes the wire bonding process easier and more cost-effective, as the electrodes and connections can be arranged in a simpler planar geometry on the substrates, reducing fabrication complexity and cost.
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
This configuration effectively decreases the height of the video projection device, enabling it to be stored inconspicuously in spectacle frames and reduces fabrication costs through simplified wire bonding, while maintaining efficient optical scanning performance.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide type multiplexer having a plurality of optical waveguides
Implementation Method 2
an optical scanning mirror device having a movable mirror... two-dimensionally scans with the entered light beam
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an optical scanning type video projection device that decreases the height of the optical scanning type video projection device by improving the disposition of a light source module device and an optical scanning mirror device. The optical scanning type video projection device has: a first substrate on which an optical waveguide type multiplexer having a plurality of optical waveguides and a light multiplexer is provided; a second substrate on which an optical scanning mirror device having a movable mirror is provided; and an optical member configured to guide a light beam emitted from the optical waveguide type multiplexer to the movable mirror in a direction that is different from an emitting direction of the light beam. The first substrate and the second substrate are disposed in parallel with each other.