Projection System Optical Element Merging Refraction Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection systems face challenges in shortening the projection distance while maintaining image quality and compactness, as the design becomes complex with the addition of more reflection surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The projection system incorporates a first optical system with a lens and a second optical system featuring a single optical element with a transmissive surface, reflection surfaces, and a convex transmissive surface, allowing for a shorter projection distance by refracting light flux effectively and suppressing the increase in intermediate image size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a projection system uses multiple reflection surfaces to shorten projection distance, then the projection distance is reduced, but the design complexity increases and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (refraction and reflection) into a single optical element. This optical element integrates a first transmissive surface, first reflection surface, second reflection surface, and second transmissive surface, eliminating the need for separate lenses and mirrors while achieving the desired short projection distance and maintaining image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical element performs multiple functions simultaneously: it refracts light at the first and second transmissive surfaces, reflects light at the first and second reflection surfaces, and forms intermediate images. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall system design.
2Length of stationary object
If a projection system uses multiple reflection surfaces to shorten projection distance, then the projection distance is reduced, but image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple optical surfaces into a single element, the patent reduces the number of interfaces where light must transition between components. This minimizes cumulative optical errors and maintains image quality while achieving short projection distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent carefully controls the curvature radii and positions of the four surfaces of the optical element. By optimizing parameters such as the curvature radius of the first transmissive surface, the positions of reflection surfaces, and the thickness of the element, the system achieves both short projection distance and high image quality.
3Volume of moving object
If a projection system uses a single optical element with multiple surfaces, then the system becomes more compact, but light loss at the periphery increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface properties to different regions of the optical element. The first and second transmissive surfaces have specific curvature radii that optimize light transmission, while the first and second reflection surfaces are positioned and shaped to control light reflection. This local optimization ensures uniform light distribution and minimizes peripheral light loss.
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 enables a compact and efficient projection system with improved resolution and reduced aberrations, allowing for a shorter focal length and increased light flux to the screen, particularly at the upper portion, while minimizing light loss at the periphery.
Implementation Method 1
The first transmissive surface, a first reflection surface disposed at an enlargement side of the first transmissive surface, a second reflection surface disposed at an enlargement side of the first reflection surface, and a second transmissive surface disposed at an enlargement side of the second reflection surface
Implementation Method 2
The first reflection surface disposed at an enlargement side of the first transmissive surface, a second reflection surface disposed at an enlargement side of the first reflection surface
Data Source
AI summary
A projection system includes a first optical system including a first lens, and a second optical system including an optical element and disposed at the enlargement side of the first optical system. The first lens is disposed in a position closest to the enlargement side in the first optical system. The optical element has a first transmissive surface, a first reflection surface, a second reflection surface, and a second transmissive surface. The second reflection surface is disposed between the first reflection surface and a first surface of the first lens that is a surface on the enlargement side in a direction along a first optical axis of the first optical system. The second transmissive surface is disposed at a side opposite a side where the first optical system is located with respect to the second reflection surface in the direction.