Reflector Optical Path Folding for Diagonal Projection Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projection apparatuses become larger and less efficient when attempting to project images diagonally, as they require shifting optical axes and inclining projection lenses, leading to increased thickness and reduced light usage efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A thin projection apparatus design featuring a first optical system, an aperture, a second optical system, and a reflector with a reflection surface aligned along the optical axis of the first system, allowing light to be efficiently reflected and projected diagonally without passing through unnecessary optical components, thereby reducing the overall size and improving light usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the optical axis of the projection lens is inclined or the front and rear lens groups are shifted to achieve diagonal projection, then the image can be projected diagonally, but the apparatus becomes thicker and larger in the direction of inclination and shifting
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the optical path arrangement from a planar configuration to a three-dimensional folded path using a reflector. The light travels from the light source, through the first lens group, reflects off the reflector, passes through the second lens group, and reaches the screen. This folded optical path enables diagonal projection capability while maintaining a compact apparatus thickness by utilizing spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions rather than simply inclining or shifting components in a single plane.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is divided into two separate lens groups (first lens group and second lens group) positioned at different locations in the optical path. The first lens group is positioned closer to the light source and the second lens group is positioned closer to the screen, with a reflector arranged between them. This segmentation allows each lens group to be optimized for its specific function and position, enabling compact arrangement while achieving diagonal projection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the optical axis of the projection lens is inclined or the front and rear lens groups are shifted, then diagonal projection is achieved, but the apparatus becomes larger in the direction of optical axis deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is arranged at an angle to fold the optical path, transforming a linear optical arrangement into a multi-dimensional configuration. This allows the light to traverse a longer effective optical path within a smaller horizontal footprint by utilizing vertical or depth-space dimensions, thereby achieving diagonal projection without proportionally increasing the apparatus's horizontal area.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional optical systems are used for diagonal projection, then the projection function is achieved, but light usage efficiency is reduced due to light passing through unnecessary optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes unnecessary optical components from the light path. By using a reflector to fold the optical path and positioning the two lens groups at different locations, the design eliminates redundant lenses and optical elements that would otherwise be required in conventional inclined or shifted configurations. This extraction of unnecessary components reduces light loss and improves overall light usage efficiency while maintaining diagonal projection capability.
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 solution enables a compact, efficient diagonal projection of light and images, reducing the apparatus's thickness and improving light usage while allowing for flexible projection angles and cost-effective manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
a reflector (14) having a reflection surface (14a) that reflects the light having exited from the first optical system (11) toward the second optical system (12)
Data Source
AI summary
A projection apparatus includes a first optical system, an aperture disposed on the light exiting-side of the first optical system, a second optical system disposed on the light exiting-side of the aperture, and a reflector disposed on the optical path between the first optical system and the second optical system, the reflector having a reflection surface that reflects the light having exited from the first optical system toward the second optical system. The optical axis of the second optical system is disposed along the optical axis of the first optical system. The reflection surface of the reflector is disposed along the optical axis of the first optical system. At least part of the first and second optical systems that is on the side opposite the reflection surface of the reflector is cut off.