Integrated Projection Module with Diffraction and Diffusion Areas

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mobile phone projection systems have a low integration level due to separate modules for structured light and floodlight, occupying excessive mounting space.

Innovation Solution

A projection module with a single housing encapsulating both a diffraction area for structured light and a diffusion area for floodlight, allowing both functions to be performed without separate modules, thereby improving integration and reducing space requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate modules are used for structured light projector and floodlight, then each module can perform its specific function independently, but the integration level is low and mounting space is occupied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional independenceVSAvoidintegration level
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the structured light projector and floodlight into a single integrated projection module. The housing contains both light sources and their respective optical components (diffraction optical element for structured light, diffusion optical element for floodlight) in a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate modules while maintaining functional independence through dedicated optical paths and control circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate modules are used for structured light projector and floodlight, then each module can perform its specific function independently, but mounting space is occupied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional independenceVSAvoidmounting space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges two separate projection modules into one integrated unit. The housing accommodates both the structured light source with diffraction optical element and the floodlight source with diffusion optical element, sharing common mounting space, control circuits, and structural support, thereby significantly reducing the total area required for installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If a single housing encapsulates both diffraction area and diffusion area, then integration level is improved and space is reduced, but optical path separation and light control become more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration levelVSAvoidoptical path control
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different optical characteristics to different regions within the single housing. The diffraction optical element is positioned and configured specifically for structured light projection, while the diffusion optical element is separately positioned and configured for floodlight projection. Each optical element and light source combination operates independently with its own optimized optical path, allowing complex light control functions to be achieved through localized design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enhances integration level and reduces space needed for mounting, facilitating more compact and efficient projection functionality in mobile devices.

Implementation Method 1

an optical element (15) mounted on the housing (12) and comprising a diffraction area (151)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

a diffusion area (152) configured to diffuse light passing through the diffusion area (152)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffusion: Diffusion

Data Source

PatentEP3786707B1Projection module and terminal
Publication Date: 2024.02.07 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • EP3786707B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3786707B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3786707B1 patent drawingFigure 4A~4B

AI summary

A projection module including a base, a housing, a first light source, a second light source and an optical element. The housing is disposed on the base, and defines an accommodating cavity together with the base. The first light source is disposed on the base and arranged in the accommodating cavity. The second light source is disposed on the base and arranged in the accommodating cavity. The optical element is disposed on the housing and includes a diffraction area and a diffusion area. The first light source aligns with the diffraction area, the second light source aligns with the diffusion area, the diffraction area is configured to diffract light passing through the diffraction area, and the diffusion area is configured to diffuse light passing through the diffusion area.