Projector Light Source Layout for Beam Compression Without Afocal Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source devices using one-dimensional arrangements of semiconductor lasers require large optical components and increased costs when compressing light flux using afocal optical systems.
Innovation Solution
A light source device configuration with multiple light source sections emitting light fluxes in different directions, utilizing reflecting members and a polarization combining element to reduce beam width without an afocal optical system, by adjusting the distance between light fluxes and combining them for efficient polarization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an afocal optical system is used to compress the light flux from multiple one-dimensional light source units, then the light flux can be compressed, but large-sized optical components are required, causing growth in device size and increased cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the light source into multiple one-dimensional light source units arranged in a two-dimensional configuration, where each unit emits light flux in a specific direction. This segmentation allows the light flux to be compressed through geometric arrangement and reflection rather than requiring a large afocal optical system, thus achieving compression without increasing device size
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from one-dimensional light source arrangements to a two-dimensional configuration, enabling the light flux from multiple units to be combined and compressed in a manner that avoids the need for large optical components. The two-dimensional arrangement allows for more efficient spatial utilization of the light flux
2Productivity
If an afocal optical system is used to compress the light flux, then beam compression is achieved, but the cost of the light source device increases due to large-sized optical components
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the light source into multiple smaller one-dimensional units arranged in two dimensions, the invention achieves light flux compression through geometric arrangement rather than expensive large optical components, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining compression efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, large-sized optical components with a configuration of smaller, more affordable light source units and simpler optical elements, achieving the same functional result at lower cost
3Quantity of substance
If multiple one-dimensional light source units are arranged to emit light flux, then the light flux can be generated, but without proper compression the beam width remains large requiring large optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the light flux from multiple one-dimensional light source units by arranging them in a two-dimensional configuration and using reflecting members to direct their emission directions toward a common region. This combining effect compresses the overall beam width while maintaining high light flux output, eliminating the need for large optical components
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 reduces the size and cost of the light source device while maintaining efficient light flux compression, enhancing light use efficiency and reducing heat generation.
Implementation Method 1
the polarization combining element reflects one of the first light flux and the second light flux reflected by the second reflecting member, and the third light flux, and transmits the other
Implementation Method 2
a first reflecting member configured to reflect the second light flux toward a direction crossing an emission direction of the second light flux and the first direction, a second reflecting member configured to reflect the second light flux reflected by the first reflecting member toward an emission direction of the first light flux
Data Source
AI summary
A light source device according to the present disclosure includes a first light source section for emitting a first light flux, a second light source section for emitting a second light flux, a third light source section for emitting a third light flux, a first reflecting member, a second reflecting member for reflecting the second light flux, and a polarization combining element. With respect to the polarization combining element, the first light flux and the second light flux are light polarized in a first polarization direction, and the third light flux is light polarized in a second polarization direction, and the first and second reflecting members are disposed so that a distance between the first light flux and second light flux becomes smaller after incidence than before the incidence. The polarization combining element combines the first light flux, the second light flux, and the third light flux with each other.