Projection Lens Barrel Assembly for Compact Optical Engines

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional projection apparatuses have bulky modular projection lens assemblies that require complex assembly processes and special tools, limiting cost reduction and adaptability across different models.

Innovation Solution

A projection apparatus design featuring a lens barrel formed by multiple casings that can be directly assembled to the optical engine, allowing the lens to move relative to the engine without needing special tools, and enabling easier modification and adaptation across various models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a modular projection lens assembly is purchased from vendors, then the projection apparatus can be assembled, but additional assembly operations are required and production cost cannot be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction costVSAvoidassembly process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the lens barrel and optical engine into a single integrated assembly, eliminating the need for separate modular lens assemblies. The lens barrel is directly formed as one piece with the optical engine, combining multiple components into a unified structure that reduces both assembly operations and production costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated lens barrel-optical engine assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, optical focusing, and mechanical alignment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized components and assembly operations, reducing overall device complexity.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a modular projection lens assembly with fixed dimension and shape is used, then the assembly process is standardized, but it cannot be adapted to other models of projection apparatuses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different modelsVSAvoidmodular design
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the projection apparatus into a modular optical assembly unit that can be independently designed and adjusted. The optical engine and lens barrel are segmented as a unified module that can be reconfigured for different projection models, providing adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated lens barrel-optical engine assembly incorporates adjustable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration for different projection models. The design includes movable and adjustable components within the unified structure, enabling adaptation to various applications while maintaining assembly simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a modular projection lens assembly is assembled to the optical engine, then the projection apparatus can be formed, but special tools are required for proper adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly and adjustmentVSAvoidspecial tools required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the lens barrel and optical engine into a single integrated assembly, the patent eliminates the interface between separate modular components. This integration removes the need for special alignment tools and adjustment procedures, as the unified structure is designed to be assembled as a complete unit with built-in alignment features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated assembly incorporates self-aligning and self-adjusting features that allow the optical engine and lens barrel to automatically position themselves correctly during assembly. The design includes built-in guidance and positioning elements that enable proper alignment without requiring external special tools or complex adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7405891B2Projection apparatus
Publication Date: 2008.07.29 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • US7405891B2 patent drawing
  • US7405891B2 patent drawing
  • US7405891B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A projection apparatus including an optical engine, a ring, a lens and multiple casings is provided. The optical engine is suitable for producing an image light beam to project an image onto a screen. The ring is fixed on the optical engine. The lens is disposed outside the optical engine and located at a transmission path of the image light beam. The casings are assembled to the ring and connected to each other to form a lens barrel for fixing the lens, and the lens is driven to move relative to the optical engine and the ring by the lens barrel. The projection apparatus has a smaller overall dimension.