Image Projection Apparatus Light Source Deterioration Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital light processing (DLP) projectors lack an effective method to detect and notify users of light source issues, such as projection lens deterioration, which can affect image quality and projector performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a photodetection system with first and second photodetectors to compare the amount of light before and after the projection optical system, and using circuitry to control a notification device when a significant difference is detected, indicating potential issues like lens deterioration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a photodetection system is added to detect light source issues, then the reliability of projector operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces photodetectors as intermediary devices that indirectly monitor the light source and optical components by measuring light intensity. Instead of directly inspecting the light source or lens, the system uses photodetectors to detect changes in transmitted light, which serve as indicators of component deterioration. This intermediary approach enables reliable monitoring while avoiding direct interference with the optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The projector system performs self-diagnosis by using photodetectors to automatically monitor its own light source and optical components. The control unit compares light intensity measurements taken at different positions (before and after the projection lens) to detect abnormalities such as lens deterioration or light source degradation. This self-monitoring capability allows the system to maintain reliability without requiring external inspection equipment or manual checking.
2Measurement precision
If photodetectors are placed in the optical path to monitor light, then the measurement precision of light source status is improved, but the loss of light energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical monitoring function into two separate photodetector positions: one measuring light intensity before the projection lens and another measuring light intensity after the lens. This segmentation allows the system to compare the two measurements to detect changes in light transmission caused by lens deterioration or light source degradation. By distributing the measurement function across multiple points rather than using a single intrusive sensor, the system achieves precise monitoring while minimizing disruption to the main optical path and light energy flow.
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
Enables timely detection and notification of light source or optical component deterioration, allowing for proactive maintenance and ensuring consistent image quality and projector performance.
Implementation Method 1
a photodetector configured to detect an amount of first light out of light emitted from a light source and an amount of second light out of the light emitted from the light source
Data Source
AI summary
An image projection apparatus includes a projection optical system configured to project an image with light emitted from a light source; a photodetector, and circuitry. The photodetector is configured to detect an amount of first light out of the light emitted from the light source and does not enter the projection optical system, and an amount of second light out of the light emitted from the light source and has passed through the projection optical system. The circuitry is configured to compare the amount of first light and the amount of second light, and control a notification device to perform a notification operation in response to reception of a comparison result that a difference in the amount of first light and the amount of second light is equal to or greater than a threshold.