Dual Function Projector Light Diffusion Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Projectors that function as both illumination devices and image projectors often present difficulties in startup, as the addition of illumination functionality can complicate the user experience, and existing technologies do not provide clear solutions for seamlessly switching between illumination and image projection modes.

Innovation Solution

A projector design incorporating a light source, spatial light modulation device, light diffusion device, and light diffusion controller that adjusts the degree of light diffusion based on power supply and user commands, allowing for easy switching between illumination and image projection modes, with features like a PDLC device and focus-adjusting lens for optimal light control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the projector is equipped with both illumination function and image projection function, then the versatility and adaptability of the device is improved, but the startup operation becomes complicated and the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual function capabilityVSAvoidstartup operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The projector automatically detects the presence of a screen and autonomously determines whether to perform image projection or illumination, eliminating the need for manual user input. The system serves itself by making intelligent decisions based on environmental conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between dual functionality and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The projector uses screen detection feedback to automatically switch between illumination and image projection modes. By detecting whether a screen is present, the system receives feedback that triggers appropriate mode selection, enabling seamless operation without complicating the startup process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the projector automatically performs image projection upon power supply, then the productivity and quick access to main function is improved, but the ability to provide illumination when needed deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequick access to main functionVSAvoidillumination function availability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The projector dynamically switches between illumination mode and image projection mode based on real-time screen detection. The system is not fixed in one state but adapts its function dynamically, allowing it to provide illumination when no screen is detected and perform image projection when a screen is present, thus resolving the contradiction between quick access and versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The projector is designed to universally perform both illumination and image projection functions by detecting the presence of a screen. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single unified system that automatically selects the appropriate mode, maintaining both productivity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the projector provides illumination function, then the adaptability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveillumination capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The illumination function is merged with the existing image projection system by utilizing the same light source and optical components. The projector combines both functions into a unified system controlled by a single screen detection mechanism, thereby providing illumination capability without significantly increasing 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

Enables convenient operation by allowing the projector to function as an illumination device upon power supply and switch seamlessly to image projection, providing a user-friendly experience for both purposes, enhancing usability and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

a light diffusion device which adjusts a degree of diffusion of the light incident on the spatial light modulation device or the light emitted from the spatial light modulation device; and a light diffusion controller which controls the light diffusion device so that the light diffusion device diffuses the light when the light source starts to light up

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPolymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) effect: Liquid Crystals

Data Source

PatentUS9274404B2Dual function projector

Publication Date: 2016.03.01 SEIKO EPSON CORP

AI summary

A projector includes a light source; a spatial light modulation device which modulates light from the light source according to an image that is written; a light diffusion device which adjusts a degree of diffusion of the light incident on the spatial light modulation device or the light emitted from the spatial light modulation device; and a light diffusion controller which controls the light diffusion device so that the light diffusion device diffuses the light when the light source starts to light up.