Projector Position Adjustment Unit Single-Axis Dial Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional projectors require complex gear systems for dual-axis adjustment of the projection lens, increasing the volume and complexity of the position adjustment unit, making it difficult to achieve a compact and symmetric design.

Innovation Solution

A projector design that utilizes a single-axis rotation mechanism for the adjustment dial, incorporating a gear module and guide slots/projections to facilitate movement in both vertical and horizontal directions, reducing the number of gears and allowing for a central dial placement, thereby simplifying the position adjustment unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a dial that rotates around at least two axes is used for vertical and horizontal adjustments, then the position adjustment function is achieved, but the volume of the position adjustment unit increases and the structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustment functionVSAvoidvolume of position adjustment unit
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines vertical and horizontal adjustment functions into a single dial that rotates around one axis. The dial includes a first dial for vertical adjustment and a second dial arranged on the circumference of the first dial for horizontal adjustment, both operable from a single rotational axis location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The second dial is arranged on the circumference of the first dial in a ring shape, creating a nested configuration where one dial is positioned on the perimeter of the other, allowing both adjustment functions to be integrated in a compact arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If gears are connected complexly to enable dual-axis dial rotation, then the position adjustment function is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustment functionVSAvoidgear connection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the gear systems for vertical and horizontal adjustments into a shared single-axis rotation mechanism. A first gear module connects the first dial to the projection lens module for vertical adjustment, while a second gear module connects the second dial to the projection lens module for horizontal adjustment, both operating from the same rotational axis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single rotational axis serves dual purposes by controlling both the first dial for vertical adjustment and the second dial for horizontal adjustment, making the rotation mechanism universal for both adjustment directions.

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

3Volume of stationary object

If a single-axis rotation mechanism is used for the adjustment dial, then the volume of the position adjustment unit is reduced and structure is simplified, but the ability to adjust in both vertical and horizontal directions must be achieved through innovative mechanism design

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume of position adjustment unitVSAvoidtwo-directional adjustment capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment dial is segmented into two independent dials: the first dial for vertical adjustment and the second dial for horizontal adjustment. Each dial has its own gear module (first gear module and second gear module respectively) that independently controls the projection lens module in its respective direction, allowing both adjustment capabilities to coexist in a compact single-axis design.

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

This design reduces the volume of the position adjustment unit, lowers complexity, and enhances product quality and price competitiveness by enabling a compact, symmetric, and efficient two-directional adjustment with a single rotation axis.

Implementation Method 1

a first movement bracket including a helix groove engaging with a helix of the screw may move in the first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHelix: Helix

Implementation Method 2

a gear module moving the second movement bracket in the second direction on rotation of the second dial

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGear: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS11681208B2Projector
Publication Date: 2023.06.20 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US11681208B2 patent drawing
  • US11681208B2 patent drawing
  • US11681208B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a projector comprising: a housing; a projection part for projecting an image; a projection lens module for expanding and projecting, on an outside screen, the image projected from the projection part; and a position adjustment part for controlling the positions of a first direction and a second direction of the projection lens module. The position adjustment part comprises: a first fixed bracket fixed to the housing and comprising an opening part through which a projection lens passes; a first moving bracket positioned on one surface of the fixed bracket and enclosing the circumference of the projection lens; a second moving bracket positioned on one surface of the first moving bracket and enclosing the circumference of the projection lens; a screw coupled to the first moving bracket in the first direction; a first dial exposed to the outer side by being coupled to the end part of the screw; a second dial positioned in a ring-shape on the circumference of the first dial; and a gear module for moving the second moving bracket in the second direction when the second dial rotates.