Projection Imaging Module Actuator Rear Focus Distance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projection apparatuses face challenges in reducing size and cost while increasing resolution, as larger high-resolution imaging elements and optical or mechanical components lead to increased volume and cost.

Innovation Solution

The imaging module reduces the distance between the display element and the optical element by using an image displacement device with a carrier, base, and actuators, allowing the optical element to swing relative to the base, thereby minimizing the rear focus distance and compacting the projection apparatus.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a larger high-resolution imaging element is employed to increase the resolution of the projection apparatus, then the image quality is improved, but the size and volume of the projection apparatus increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidprojection apparatus volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the actuator from the traditional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration where it is located at a position not overlapping with the display element in the projection plane. This spatial rearrangement allows the actuator to drive the optical element while minimizing the overall footprint of the imaging module, thus reducing projection apparatus volume while maintaining high-resolution capabilities

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates the actuator, optical element, and display element into a compact nested structure where the actuator is positioned behind or beside the display element in the optical path. This nesting arrangement allows components to share space efficiently, reducing the overall volume of the projection apparatus while maintaining the necessary functional distances for high-resolution imaging

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Measurement precision

If additional optical or mechanical components are added to increase resolution, then the image quality is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidoptical system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the actuator to serve multiple functions: it not only drives the optical element for image displacement but also helps position the optical element at an optimized distance from the display element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby simplifying the overall optical system while maintaining high-resolution performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the functions of the actuator and the optical element mounting structure into an integrated assembly. The actuator is directly coupled to the optical element carrier, merging the driving mechanism and the optical component holder into a single functional unit. This reduction in component count simplifies the device structure and reduces complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 reduces the volume and cost of the projection apparatus while improving optical quality by allowing a smaller projection lens to be used and enhancing image resolution.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one actuator is disposed on the base. One end of the at least one actuator is connected to the carrier to drive the optical element on the carrier to swing relative to the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectActuator-driven swinging motion:

Implementation Method 2

the active display surface is adapted to receive an illumination beam and convert the illumination beam into an image beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight modulation:

Data Source

PatentUS10838288B2Projection apparatus and imaging module thereof
Publication Date: 2020.11.17 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • US10838288B2 patent drawing
  • US10838288B2 patent drawing
  • US10838288B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging module includes a display element and an image displacement device. The display element includes an active display surface adapted to receive an illumination beam, convert the illumination beam into an image beam, and transmit the image beam. The image displacement device includes an optical element located on a transmission path of the image beam and adapted to allow the image beam to pass therethrough, a carrier, a base and at least one actuator, wherein the optical element is disposed on the carrier, the at least one actuator is disposed on the base, one end of the at least one actuator is connected to the carrier to drive the optical element on the carrier to swing relative to the base, and an orthographic projection area of the at least one actuator on a reference plane does not overlap with an orthographic projection area of the active display surface.