Rotatable Projection Lens with Dual-Axis Optical System

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional projectors require cumbersome adjustments to change the projection position and direction, limiting flexibility in setting the projection direction without altering the projector's position or direction.

Innovation Solution

A projection lens system with a first and second mirror, optical systems, rotation mechanisms, and sensors that allow the projection lens to be rotated independently, enabling flexible adjustment of the projection direction without moving the projector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a reflecting mirror is used to change the inclination angle of the projection surface, then the projection position can be changed in one direction, but the projection direction cannot be freely set in all directions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection direction flexibilityVSAvoidoptical system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical system is divided into two independent rotation mechanisms: a first rotation mechanism for rotating the projection lens around the optical axis, and a second rotation mechanism for rotating the entire optical system. This segmentation allows independent control of each rotation degree of freedom, enabling 360-degree projection direction adjustment without requiring a completely redesigned optical path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds a second rotational degree of freedom by introducing the second rotation mechanism that rotates the entire optical system around a vertical axis, complementing the first rotation mechanism's horizontal rotation. This dimensional expansion from single-axis to dual-axis rotation enables comprehensive 360-degree coverage in all directions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If the projector main body is moved or inclined to adjust the display position, then the projection position can be changed, but the adjustment process becomes troublesome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection position adjustmentVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the mechanical approach of moving or inclining the entire projector main body with an optical solution using rotatable mirrors and a rotatable projection lens. This substitution allows projection direction and position adjustment through optical path modification rather than physical relocation, significantly reducing adjustment time and effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces dynamic rotation capabilities to the previously static projector main body. The first and second rotation mechanisms enable the projection lens and optical system to rotate dynamically, allowing rapid adjustment of projection direction without physically moving the projector's position, thus reducing adjustment time while maintaining operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the projection lens is rotated independently from the projector main body, then the projection direction can be freely set without changing the projector's position, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection direction setting freedomVSAvoidrotation mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The independent rotation of the projection lens is achieved by segmenting the rotation function into two independent mechanisms: the first rotation mechanism for the projection lens and the second rotation mechanism for the optical system. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function, reducing the overall complexity compared to a single complex rotation system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second rotation mechanism serves multiple functions: it rotates the entire optical system to change the projection direction, and it also enables the projection lens to be positioned for different projection surfaces (front, rear, left, right). This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized mechanisms, thereby controlling device complexity while maximizing adaptability.

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

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

Enables the projector to freely set the projection direction in all directions of 360° without changing the projector's position or direction, simplifying the adjustment process.

Implementation Method 1

The first mirror bends a first optical axis to a second optical axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The second mirror bends the second optical axis to a third optical axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20250053075A1Projector with rotatable projection lens
Publication Date: 2025.02.13 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US20250053075A1 patent drawing
  • US20250053075A1 patent drawing
  • US20250053075A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A projection lens is separated by a second mirror into a first optical system that is disposed so as to be closer to an image forming panel and a second optical system that includes the second mirror and is disposed so as to be closer to a screen which is a projection surface. The second optical system is held rotatably around a second optical axis with respect to the first optical system by a first rotation mechanism. A rotation angle of the second optical system with respect to the first optical system is detected by a first sensor. A tilt angle of the projected image on the projection surface by the rotation angle is obtained by a tilt correction section, and the display position of the image to be displayed on the image forming panel is corrected according to the tilt angle.