Projector Integrated Laser Pointer Motor Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

User-based errors such as hand tremors cause fluctuations in the laser dot when operating laser pointers manually, leading to distractions and embarrassment for users.

Innovation Solution

An integrated laser pointer system within a projector, controlled by a processor, which can switch between manual and automatic modes, synchronize with content changes, and eliminate user-caused errors by using mechanical components like AC/DC electric motors and piezoelectric motors to precisely control the laser dot's position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual operation of laser pointer is used, then ease of operation is improved, but stability of laser dot position deteriorates due to hand tremors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidstability of laser dot position
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation system with an automated motor control system. AC/DC electric motors and piezoelectric motors are used to precisely control the laser pointer's position, eliminating hand tremors while maintaining ease of operation through automated control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser pointer system performs self-adjustment and self-positioning through integrated motor control. The system automatically maintains stable laser dot position without requiring manual intervention to compensate for hand tremors, enabling the system to serve itself in maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Stability of the object's composition

If integrated laser pointer is controlled by processor, then stability of laser dot position is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of laser dot positionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the laser pointer control functions with the projector's existing processor and mechanical components. By integrating the AC/DC motor and piezoelectric motor control into the projector's existing system architecture, the solution achieves stable laser positioning without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The system effectively eliminates user-caused errors, providing precise control over the laser dot and reducing distractions, allowing users to focus on content presentation without manual tremors affecting the laser's stability.

Implementation Method 1

piezoelectric motors to precisely control the laser dot's position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

AC/DC electric motors to precisely control the laser dot's position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11003258B2Projector with integrated laser pointer
Publication Date: 2021.05.11 KONICA MINOLTA SYSTEMS LABORATORY INC
  • US11003258B2 patent drawing
  • US11003258B2 patent drawing
  • US11003258B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling an integrated laser pointer of a projector includes causing the integrated laser pointer to, in response to commands from a processor: switch the integrated laser pointer to an ON state and adjust a position of the integrated laser pointer to display a dot on a predetermined position of a projected image, switch between the ON state and an OFF state in synchronization with a change in a content of the projected image, switch between an automatic mode and a manual mode, and switch to the OFF state and stop displaying the dot.