Compact Projection Apparatus via Optical Axis Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional projection apparatuses tend to increase in size due to the configuration of light sources and optical systems, particularly when using large light sources, leading to a demand for a more compact design.
Innovation Solution
The projection apparatus incorporates a light source apparatus that outputs light via an exit port, an image generation apparatus with reflective optical elements, and a projection optical apparatus that includes a deflection member and a passage optical path, where the light exiting optical axis of the light source is parallel to the light incident optical axis of the projection optical apparatus, allowing for reduced dimensions by optimizing the placement of optical components and light modulation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a large light source is employed to achieve high luminance, then the brightness is improved, but the dimension of the projector in the depth direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the light source apparatus such that its light exiting optical axis is parallel to the light incident optical axis of the projection optical apparatus, and the extension of the light exiting optical axis intersects with the passage optical path. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the optical components to be arranged more efficiently in three-dimensional space, reducing the depth direction dimension while maintaining high luminance output
2Ease of operation
If the video display device is provided on the light incident side of the transmissive optical system, then the image projection function is achieved, but the dimension of the projector along the depth direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by placing the video display device on the light exiting side of the projection optical apparatus instead of the light incident side. The optical image modulated by the video display device is incident on the projection optical apparatus, which then projects the image. This inversion allows for a more compact depth dimension while preserving the image projection capability
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 effectively reduces the protruding dimensions of the light source and image generation apparatus, minimizing the overall size of the projector while maintaining efficient image projection capabilities, even when using high-luminance light sources.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflective optical element that reflects at least part of the light outputted from the light source apparatus
Implementation Method 2
a deflection member that deflects light that travels along the entrance optical path
Data Source
AI summary
An image generation apparatus includes a first reflective optical element that reflects at least part of the light outputted from a light source apparatus and a second reflective optical element disposed in the optical path of the light reflected off the first reflective optical element. A projection optical apparatus has an entrance optical path located in the light exiting optical axis of the image generation apparatus, a deflection member that deflects light having traveled along the entrance optical path, and a passage optical path along which the light deflected by the deflection member travels. The light exiting optical axis of the light source apparatus is parallel to the light incident optical axis of the projection optical apparatus, and the extension of the light exiting optical axis of the light source apparatus intersects with the passage optical path.