Projection Device Imaging Module with Movable Optical Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge is to reduce the size of projection devices while improving their resolution, as larger high-resolution imaging components increase the device's size and cost.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an imaging module with a display element, a prism, and an image displacement device, where the image displacement device includes an optical element, a carrier, and actuators that allow the optical element to swing, reducing the distance between the display element and the prism, thereby minimizing the back focal length and the overall size of the projection device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If larger high-resolution imaging components are used to improve resolution, then image quality is improved, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the optical element movable through an image displacement device with actuators. The optical element can swing between different positions, allowing the system to dynamically adjust the optical path. This enables high-resolution imaging without requiring permanently large components, as the movable configuration allows compact packaging while maintaining imaging quality during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes dimensional change by transitioning the optical element from a fixed linear arrangement to a movable configuration that exploits angular displacement. The optical element swings along an arc path, effectively using angular dimension to achieve compact optical path folding. This allows the optical system to fit within a smaller volume while maintaining the necessary optical path length for high-resolution imaging.

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

2Measurement precision

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidcomponent count
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing the movable optical element to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same optical element that provides high-resolution imaging also enables optical path folding and compact system packaging through its movement capability. The actuator system not only positions the optical element but also enables the entire system to achieve high resolution without requiring separate dedicated components for each function.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated movable optical element system. Rather than using separate fixed components for imaging, beam steering, and path folding, the patent combines these functions into one movable optical element controlled by actuators. This consolidation reduces the total number of components while achieving high-resolution imaging in a compact configuration.

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 configuration reduces the size and cost of the projection device while enhancing its optical quality and image resolution.

Implementation Method 1

The prism includes an optical surface. The image displacement device is disposed between the display element and the prism.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical reflection and refraction: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The optical element is disposed on the carrier... to drive the optical element on the carrier to swing relative to the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical path manipulation: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS10859891B2Projection device and imaging module thereof
Publication Date: 2020.12.08 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • US10859891B2 patent drawing
  • US10859891B2 patent drawing
  • US10859891B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging module includes a display element, a prism and an image displacement device. The display element includes an active display surface. The prism includes an optical surface. The image displacement device is disposed between the display element and the prism. The image displacement device includes an optical element, a carrier, a base and at least one actuator. The optical element is disposed on the carrier. The at least one actuator drives the optical element on the carrier to swing relative to the base.