Projection Module 3D Circuit Layout for Compact Space Utilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current projection apparatuses lack efficient space utilization in their circuit design, leading to reduced functionality and increased volume due to circuits being distributed on a single plane.

Innovation Solution

A projection apparatus with a three-dimensional circuit structure where the projection apparatus and media player circuit module are arranged on the top surface of the frame and between adjacent extension arms, utilizing flexible connection portions to connect circuit boards perpendicular to each other, allowing for non-planar distribution and improved space utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the circuit module is arranged on a single plane, then the structure is simple, but the space utilization is poor and the volume is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit structureVSAvoidapparatus volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional spatial arrangement by extending circuit boards along the Z-axis direction. Multiple circuit boards are stacked and connected vertically, utilizing the third dimension to reduce the horizontal footprint and overall volume of the apparatus while maintaining structural simplicity through standardized stacking patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested arrangement where smaller circuit boards are positioned within the vertical space created by larger circuit boards. The extension arms and support structures are nested within the overall housing structure, maximizing space utilization by placing components within the available three-dimensional envelope rather than spreading them out on a single plane.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If the circuit module is arranged on a single plane, then the design is straightforward, but the circuit design space is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit designVSAvoidcircuit design space
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent expands the circuit design space by adding the Z-axis dimension to the traditional XY-plane arrangement. This vertical stacking approach provides additional area for placing circuit boards, connectors, and associated components without complicating the manufacturing process, as the stacking follows a regular, repeatable pattern that maintains ease of assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Volume of moving object

If the circuit boards are arranged perpendicular to each other, then the space utilization is improved, but the connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus volumeVSAvoidconnection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces extension arms as intermediary components that facilitate connections between perpendicular circuit boards. These extension arms act as mechanical mediators, providing standardized connection interfaces and mounting points that simplify the joining of orthogonal circuit boards, thereby reducing the overall connection complexity despite the three-dimensional arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the circuit module into segmented components (multiple separate circuit boards) that can be independently manufactured and then connected through standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows each board to be optimized for its specific function while using uniform connection mechanisms, reducing the complexity of inter- board connections even when arranged perpendicular to each other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 design increases circuit design space, reduces combination time, and minimizes volume while maintaining full-function specifications, enabling the projection of diversified patterns and images.

Implementation Method 1

An imaging principle of the projection apparatus is to convert an illumination light beam generated by an illumination system into an image light beam by using a light valve

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight modulation:

Implementation Method 2

the image light beam is projected onto a projection target object (such as a screen, a ground, or a wall) by using a projection lens to form a projection image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical focusing: Lens

Implementation Method 3

The light-transmissive cover is arranged on the housing to cover the opening of the housing. The optical engine module is configured to provide a projection light beam to be transmitted through the light-transmissive cover

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission:

Data Source

PatentEP3745201B1Projection apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.02.28 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • EP3745201B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3745201B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP3745201B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

A projection apparatus including a housing, a light-transmissive cover, an optical engine module, a frame, and a projection apparatus and media player circuit module is provided. The light-transmissive cover is arranged on the housing to cover an opening of the housing. The optical engine module is configured to provide a projection light beam to be transmitted through the light-transmissive cover. The optical engine module is arranged in the housing. The frame is arranged on a top surface of the optical engine module. The frame includes extension arms extending in a direction away from the top surface. The projection apparatus and media player circuit module is configured to drive the optical engine module, and to play a pattern or an image, and is arranged on the extension arms to be distributed on at least two of side surfaces and a bottom surface of the optical engine module.