Projector Light Modulator Plate Mechanism for Precise Convergence

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing three chip DMD light engines for projectors require complex mechanical convergence mechanisms that are space-consuming, expensive, prone to misalignment, and compromise image quality due to environmental factors.

Innovation Solution

A single component convergence mechanism using a laterally deformable plate with adjustable spring mechanisms allows precise alignment of light modulators in two perpendicular directions, reducing mechanical complexity and susceptibility to misalignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional mechanical convergence mechanisms are used, then fine X-Y optical adjustment of DMD positions is achieved, but device complexity increases and space consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepixel alignment precisionVSAvoidmechanical complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple adjustment functions (X-position, Y-position, and rotation) into a single convergence mechanism assembly that integrates multiple adjustment screws working together on a common platform, reducing the number of separate mechanisms needed while maintaining precise alignment capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The convergence mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - adjusting X-position, Y-position, and rotational alignment of the DMD chip using a unified mechanical structure, making the mechanism versatile and reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional mechanical convergence mechanisms are used, then fine X-Y optical adjustment of DMD positions is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepixel alignment precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple adjustment functions (X-position, Y-position, and rotation) into a single convergence mechanism assembly that integrates multiple adjustment screws working together on a common platform, reducing the number of separate mechanisms needed while maintaining precise alignment capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism allows for adjustable convergence parameters through threaded screws that enable precise positioning of the DMD chip in X and Y directions and rotational adjustment, facilitating cost-effective manufacturing through standardized threaded components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional mechanical convergence mechanisms are used, then adjustment range is provided, but alignment stability decreases due to environmental factors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment rangeVSAvoidalignment stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism allows for adjustable convergence parameters through threaded screws that enable precise positioning of the DMD chip in X and Y directions and rotational adjustment, facilitating cost-effective manufacturing through standardized threaded components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex multi-component mechanical mechanisms with a simplified screw-based adjustment system that uses elastic deformation of a single component to achieve convergence, reducing mechanical complexity and potential failure points

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

4Manufacturing precision

If electronic convergence with sub-pixel dithering is used, then misalignment is masked, but image quality decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepixel alignmentVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex multi-component mechanical mechanisms with a simplified screw-based adjustment system that uses elastic deformation of a single component to achieve convergence, reducing mechanical complexity and potential failure points

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

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 mechanism provides robust, cost-effective alignment with minimal drift, ensuring pixel alignment within acceptable thresholds without compromising image quality.

Implementation Method 1

the pressure causing the spring mechanisms to deform in the plane of the plate, thereby moving a displaceable region of the plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4668730A1Single component convergence mechanism for a light modulator of a projector
Publication Date: 2025.12.24 CHRISTIE DIGITAL SYSTEMS USA INC
  • EP4668730A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4668730A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4668730A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A single component convergence mechanism for a light modulator of a projector is provided. The single component convergence mechanism includes: a plate; a light-modulator-mounting position at the plate; a pair of slot spring mechanisms in the plate, the pair of slot spring mechanisms on opposite sides of the light-modulator-mounting position; and a pair of connecting slots (1116) in the plate joining the pair of slot spring mechanisms. A region formed by the pair of slot spring mechanisms and the pair of connecting slots (1116) is laterally displaceable within the plate via force applied to on a spring mechanism of the pair of slot spring mechanisms, the light-modulator-mounting position located at the region. The pair of slot spring mechanisms are connected to the region to a remainder of the plate.