Projector Support Frame Layout for Compact Optical Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projectors face an increase in size due to the need for a fixed base to hold the projection optical apparatus, optical path changer, and light modulator.

Innovation Solution

A projector design that includes a light source apparatus, image generator, optical path changer, and projection optical apparatus, where holders are used to pivotably support optical parts and fix them to a common holder, reducing the need for a separate fixed base.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a fixed base is used to hold the projection optical apparatus, optical path changer, and light modulator, then the structural stability is improved, but the apparatus size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidapparatus size
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the support functions for the projection optical apparatus, optical path changer, and light modulator into a single integrated holder structure. This holder combines multiple support features that were previously distributed across separate mounting components, achieving both structural stability and compactness by eliminating redundant support elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The holder is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously supports the projection optical apparatus, optical path changer, and light modulator. This universal support structure replaces multiple separate mounting mechanisms, reducing the overall apparatus volume while maintaining the stability needed for precise optical alignment and operation.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple separate holders are used for different optical components, then the positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidholder configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated holder is segmented into distinct support regions for the projection optical apparatus, optical path changer, and light modulator. Each region provides precise positioning for its respective component while being part of a unified structure, avoiding the complexity of multiple separate holders while maintaining manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple positioning functions that were previously distributed across separate holders are merged into a single integrated holder design. This consolidation maintains the precise positioning capability for each optical component while simplifying the overall device structure and reducing assembly 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

The design minimizes the projector's size by eliminating the need for a separate fixed base, allowing for a more compact and efficient configuration.

Implementation Method 1

an optical support section that pivotably supports the optical member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivotal support: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS12566363B2Support frames for a projector
Publication Date: 2026.03.03 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US12566363B2 patent drawing
  • US12566363B2 patent drawing
  • US12566363B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A projector according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a light source apparatus, an image generator, an optical path changer, and a projection optical apparatus. The image generator includes a light modulator that modulates the light emitted from the light source apparatus in accordance with image information to generate the image light, and a first holder that holds the light modulator. The optical path changer includes an optical part that the image light outputted from the image generator enters, an optical support section that pivotably supports the optical part, and a second holder that holds the optical support section. The projection optical apparatus includes a projection system that the light emitted from the optical path changer enters, and a third holder that holds the projection system. The first and second holders are fixed to the third holder.