Projector Mode Switching for Image Projection and Ambient Lighting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic apparatuses with projector functions are limited in expanding usability beyond image projection and sound output, lacking additional functionalities that enhance user experience.

Innovation Solution

An electronic apparatus that can switch between projection mode and lighting mode, adjusting brightness and color based on detected events, such as a cover being coupled, using sensors for illuminance and color information, and controlling LED devices to project light for lighting purposes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the projector projects light at high brightness for image projection, then the image quality is improved, but the device cannot provide lighting function

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidbrightness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic mode switching between projection mode and lighting mode based on detected events (such as cover coupling). The projector adapts its brightness characteristics dynamically: in projection mode it operates at first brightness for image quality, while in lighting mode it operates at second brightness for illumination, resolving the contradiction between maintaining image projection capability and providing lighting function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the projector operates in projection mode with fixed brightness, then the projection function is stable, but the device lacks additional usability

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveusabilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs event-based automatic mode switching where the system self-detects conditions (such as cover coupling detected by sensors) and automatically transitions between projection mode and lighting mode without requiring manual user intervention. This expands usability while keeping the control system relatively simple, as the mode switching is triggered automatically by environmental events rather than complex user interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Illumination intensity

If the projector switches to lighting mode with reduced brightness, then the lighting function is activated, but the projection image quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting capabilityVSAvoidprojection quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the operational characteristics of the projector into distinct modes: projection mode with first brightness optimized for image quality, and lighting mode with second brightness optimized for illumination. By separating these functions into distinct operational segments triggered by events, the system can optimize each mode independently without compromising the other, as each mode activates only when needed rather than operating simultaneously at compromised performance levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Expands the usability of electronic apparatuses by utilizing projecting light as lighting, enhancing user experience through adjustable brightness and color projection based on detected events.

Implementation Method 1

detect whether the cover is coupled on the projector based on first illuminance information detected by the illuminance sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIlluminance detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

color information detected by the color sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectColor detection: Absorption Spectroscopy

Implementation Method 3

control the projector to project light at a second brightness which is less than the first brightness

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission from LED devices: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 4

The projector may include a plurality of light-emitting diode (LED) devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Electroluminescence

Data Source

PatentUS12488715B2Electronic apparatus and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2025.12.02 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12488715B2 patent drawing
  • US12488715B2 patent drawing
  • US12488715B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic apparatus and a control method thereof are provided. The electronic apparatus includes a projector, a memory configured to store instructions and a processor configured to execute the instructions to control the projector to operate in a projection mode in which the projector projects light at a first brightness to project a first image, detect an event while operating in the projection mode, enter a lighting mode based on the detected event, and control, based on entering the lighting mode, the projector to project light at a second brightness which is less than the first brightness.