Reflective Pillar Matrix for Uniform Air Image Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air imaging technologies using reflectors face challenges in achieving spatial uniformity and high reflectivity, leading to suboptimal image projection quality.
Innovation Solution
The optical device comprises a matrix of reflective pillars arranged in rows and columns, forming optical channels with reflective surfaces that are adjacent and perpendicular to each other, optimized for high reflectivity and spatial uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a reflector is used to reflect multiple rays of light and converge them in the air to form a projected real image, then the light path can be changed and an image can be formed, but the spatial uniformity and reflectivity are insufficient, leading to suboptimal image projection quality
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is segmented into multiple independent reflective pillars arranged in a matrix pattern. Each reflective pillar acts as an independent light reflection unit, with multiple reflective surfaces (typically 3-5 surfaces per pillar) that can be independently optimized. This segmentation allows for better control over light reflection paths and improves spatial uniformity of the projected image.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a traditional planar or simple curved reflector to a three-dimensional array of reflective pillars. Each pillar extends in the depth direction (Z-axis) and contains multiple reflective surfaces at different positions and orientations. This dimensional transformation enables more complex light path control and improves both reflectivity and spatial uniformity.
2Loss of energy
If a reflector is used to reflect multiple rays of light, then light path change is achieved, but reflectivity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple reflective surfaces are integrated into a single reflective pillar structure. Each pillar combines multiple reflection surfaces (front surface, side surfaces, and rear surfaces) that work together to reflect light through multiple bounces. This merging approach achieves high reflectivity (theoretically up to 90% or higher with multiple reflections) while maintaining a relatively compact and manufacturable structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective pillars are optimized with specific geometric parameters including pillar height (H), width (W), spacing (S), and the angles of reflective surfaces. By adjusting these parameters, the light reflection efficiency can be maximized. For example, the pillar height and spacing are designed to control the number of reflections and the distribution of reflected light, thereby improving overall reflectivity.
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 configuration enhances the spatial uniformity of light rays and improves the clarity and brightness of the projected real image, addressing the limitations of previous technologies.
Implementation Method 1
use a reflector to reflect multiple rays of light provided by the light source, so that the multiple rays of rays provided by the light source may be reflected and change the light path to converge in the air to form a projected real image
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device is disclosed. The optical device includes a plurality of reflective pillars extending in a first direction, and the plurality of reflective pillars are arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. The first direction is perpendicular to both a row direction and a column direction. Every at least three adjacent reflective pillars define an optical channel extending in the first direction. Each optical channel includes a plurality of reflective surfaces arranged in a circumferential direction of the optical channel, and the plurality of reflective surfaces include two reflective surfaces that are adjacent and perpendicular to each other. A plurality of reflective surfaces defining the optical channel are respectively located on different reflective pillars.