Projector-Based Thermostat Display Using Waveguide for Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional thermostats have exposed touch-sensitive displays that are susceptible to damage, leading to reduced device lifespan and limited adaptability to environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A thermostat with a projected display system using a projector and waveguide to project a user interface onto a surface, allowing for adaptive brightness and color adjustment based on ambient light and surface color, and incorporating emergency data integration for enhanced user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional exposed touch-sensitive display is used, then user interaction is direct and simple, but the display is susceptible to damage and has reduced device lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a projector to create a visual copy of the user interface on the mounting surface instead of using a physical display screen. The optical field serves as a virtual copy of the interface, eliminating the need for a fragile exposed display while maintaining full user interaction capabilities through touch sensors and visual feedback.
2Reliability
If a projector-based display system is used, then display durability is improved and adaptability to environmental conditions is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical display screen with an optical projection system. Instead of using a physical display panel that requires protection, the system uses a projector to cast images onto the mounting surface, and uses optical sensors to detect touch inputs. This substitution eliminates the fragile mechanical component while achieving the same user interface functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a projector-based display system is used, then adaptability to environmental conditions is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mounting surface serve multiple functions: it acts as both the mounting surface for the thermostat and the projection surface for the display. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate display screen and simplifies the manufacturing process, as the same surface performs dual roles in the 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 projected display system provides a robust and adaptable user interface that is less prone to damage, improves visibility, and integrates emergency alerts, enhancing user experience and device functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the waveguide is located within the opening of the surface and transmits the light from the projector through the opening in the surface
Implementation Method 2
the diffraction grating directs the light from the direction element by redirecting the light in a third direction to the user
Data Source
AI summary
A controller configured to provision on a surface of an environment includes a projector configured to project light for a user interface through an opening in the surface, wherein the projector is located on a first side of the surface. The controller includes a waveguide located within the opening of the surface, wherein the waveguide is configured to transmit the light from the projector through the opening in the surface. The controller further includes a direction element located on a second side of the surface, wherein the direction element is configured to direct the light from the projector to a user.