Integrated Projector Module with Dual-Axis Rotation Ring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern mobile computing devices face challenges in ergonomically designing components such as input and output devices, with current input devices being uncomfortable for data entry and output devices limited to single options, hindering user experience and failing to harness full computing power.

Innovation Solution

A computing device with an enclosure supporting a display and an integrated projector module adjustably coupled to a projector adjustment ring for dual-axis rotation, enabling enhanced user interaction through virtual keyboards and projection capabilities, along with integrated input/output devices for improved ergonomics and functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an integrated projector module is added to mobile computing devices, then projection capability and user interaction are enhanced, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The projector module is integrated into the mobile computing device by combining it with the display assembly. The projector module includes a light source, optical system, and scanning mirrors that work together within a compact structure, merging multiple functions (projection, display, input) into a single device unit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The projector module is nested within the display assembly structure. The optical components, including scanning mirrors and lens, are arranged in a nested configuration where smaller components are positioned within the space occupied by larger components, maximizing space utilization in the compact mobile device form factor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If dual-axis rotation capability is provided for the projector module, then projection flexibility and ergonomics are improved, but mechanical complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprojection flexibilityVSAvoidmechanical complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The projector module is designed with dual-axis rotation capability, allowing it to dynamically adjust its orientation in two independent directions. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables the projector to point towards different surfaces and angles, providing flexibility for various projection scenarios while maintaining a compact structure through controlled mechanical movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If virtual keyboards are projected for input, then ergonomics and user experience are enhanced, but precision and reliability of input may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveergonomicsVSAvoidinput precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the projected virtual keyboard provides visual feedback to the user about key presses. The display and projector work in coordination to provide immediate visual confirmation of input actions, helping users maintain precision when interacting with the virtual keyboard interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The physical mechanical keyboard is replaced with a projected virtual keyboard that uses optical projection and digital sensing. This substitution eliminates the need for physical keys while maintaining input functionality through touch or gesture recognition, improving ergonomics by removing the need for physical keyboard attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple output options (display and projector) are integrated, then versatility is improved, but space requirements and device size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoutput optionsVSAvoiddevice size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile computing device is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both a display for direct viewing and a projector module for external projection. The same computing platform and processing unit support both output modes, allowing the device to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The optical components of the projector module, including the projection lens and scanning mirrors, are designed with thin-film and flexible structures that minimize the overall volume required. This allows the projector functionality to be integrated into the compact mobile device without significantly increasing its size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10481734B2Computing device, apparatus and system for display and integrated projection

Publication Date: 2019.11.19 INTEL CORP

AI summary

Embodiments of an apparatus and system are described for a hybrid computing device. Some embodiments may comprise a computing device having an enclosure arranged to support a display on a front of the enclosure, a projector adjustment ring integrated into a portion of the perimeter of the enclosure, and a projector module adjustably coupled to the projector adjustment ring. In various embodiments, the projector module may be arranged for dual-axis rotation within the projector adjustment ring. Other embodiments are described and claimed.