Compact Projection Light Module Using Polarization Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light modules for projectors require significant installation space and high production costs due to complex beam paths and numerous optical components, particularly in portable applications where compactness is essential.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a polarization manipulation apparatus, such as a λ/4 wave plate or Faraday rotator, to differentiate and redirect blue radiation components by rotating their polarization 90°, allowing for a compact design with reduced optical components and minimized space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a complex beam path with multiple optical components is used to recycle blue radiation, then the optical output is improved, but the installation space and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical components (beam splitter, polarization manipulation apparatus, focusing apparatus) into an integrated light module structure. The beam splitter is positioned to simultaneously handle both the laser apparatus radiation and the recycled blue radiation, merging their paths. This integration reduces the overall installation space while maintaining the optical functions of recycling blue radiation and directing it to the luminous wheel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes polarization manipulation to differentiate radiation paths in a new dimension. By rotating the polarization of recycled blue radiation through 90 degrees using a polarization manipulation apparatus (such as a wave plate or Faraday rotator), the system creates distinct propagation directions for different radiation types. This polarization-based spatial separation allows compact routing without requiring large physical space for separate beam paths.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple optical components are mounted to achieve compact design, then the installation space is reduced, but the production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple optical components into a single compact light module assembly. The beam splitter, polarization manipulation apparatus, and focusing apparatus are mounted in close proximity, sharing common mounting structures and optical paths. This merging reduces the total number of separate mounting operations required and simplifies assembly procedures, thereby reducing production costs despite the advanced optics involved.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam splitter serves multiple functions: it transmits radiation from the laser apparatus to the luminous wheel, reflects recycled blue radiation back through the polarization manipulation apparatus, and differentiates between different radiation types based on polarization state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying manufacturing and reducing production costs.
3Productivity
If blue radiation is recycled through multiple components, then the optical efficiency is improved, but the high power densities damage the phosphor wheel substrates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a polarization manipulation apparatus as an intermediary component between the beam splitter and the luminous wheel. This apparatus (such as a wave plate or Faraday rotator) manipulates the polarization state of recycled blue radiation, allowing it to be directed onto the luminous wheel at optimized angles and polarization states. This intermediary manipulation enables efficient recycling while controlling the power density distribution to prevent damage to the phosphor wheel substrates.
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 approach enables the creation of extremely compact light modules with reduced installation space and production costs, while maintaining comparable optical outputs and extending the lifespan of phosphor wheel substrates by minimizing high power densities.
Implementation Method 1
a polarization manipulation apparatus, which is adapted to rotate the polarization of radiation that has passed through it twice in different directions through 90°
Implementation Method 2
a first beam splitter which is adapted to transmit radiation in a wavelength range λ465 nm (HR=highly reflective)
Implementation Method 3
a focusing apparatus arranged in the beam path of the radiation emitted by the laser apparatus between the first beam splitter and the luminous wheel
Implementation Method 4
a region 22a, which is coated with a phosphor which converts the radiation in the blue wavelength range impinging on it into the red wavelength range
Data Source
AI summary
A light module for a projection apparatus, comprising a laser apparatus adapted to emit linearly polarized radiation in the blue wavelength range, a luminous wheel arranged in the beam path of the radiation emitted by the laser apparatus, a first beam splitter arranged in the beam path of the radiation emitted by the laser apparatus between the laser apparatus and the luminous wheel, a focusing apparatus arranged in the beam path of the radiation emitted by the laser apparatus between the first beam splitter and the luminous wheel, and at least one polarization manipulation apparatus, adapted to rotate the polarization of radiation that has passed through it twice in different directions through 90°, wherein the first beam splitter is arranged such that it is also located in the beam path of radiation in the blue wavelength range which has passed twice through the polarization manipulation apparatus in different directions.