Rotating LED Array Projector for Compact Full-Color Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image projectors using 3 color light recombination are complex and large due to the need for optical elements for each color, making them inefficient in terms of size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The use of a light emitting diode (LED) array supported by a movable actuator, such as a rotatable or translatable actuator, to generate and combine images by rotating or translating the LED array, allowing for the creation of composite frames and video images with reduced size and complexity, utilizing independently controllable LEDs of different wavelengths to produce full color images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If 3 color light recombination with separate optical elements for each color is used, then full color video projection is achieved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines red, green, and blue LEDs into a single integrated array structure, eliminating the need for separate optical paths and elements for each color. This merging approach projects all three colors simultaneously through a single optical system, dramatically reducing device complexity while maintaining full color projection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single LED array serves multiple functions by generating all three primary colors (red, green, blue) in one location, replacing the traditional multi-component system. This universal structure performs color generation, light emission, and image formation simultaneously, reducing the overall number of required optical elements
2Illumination intensity
If separate optical elements for each color are included, then full color image generation is possible, but projector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the red, green, and blue light sources into a single LED array and using a shared optical path, the patent consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate optical trains into one compact system, significantly reducing projector volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges LEDs in a spatial array configuration where red, green, and blue LEDs are positioned at different locations within the same optical path. This spatial dimensionality allows simultaneous multi-color emission without requiring separate optical elements for each color, reducing overall system size
3Measurement precision
If a large number of LEDs are used in the array, then image resolution improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The LED array is segmented into distinct red, green, and blue LED groups that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows precise control over each color component while maintaining an organized structure that reduces control complexity compared to treating all LEDs as a single unit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs time-sequential activation of different LED groups (red, green, blue) within each frame cycle. By periodically activating specific color groups in a structured sequence, the system achieves high-resolution color imaging while simplifying control logic through rhythmic, predictable activation patterns
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 approach enables the generation of high-resolution video images with reduced size and complexity by using a movable LED array to create composite frames, improving image projection efficiency and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting diode (LED) array such as an LED array that has an array axis and includes a plurality of LEDs arranged along the array axis
Implementation Method 2
as the LED array is rotated as a function of time, a sequence of images of the array can be generated
Implementation Method 3
a translatable actuator that has a translation axis perpendicular to the array axis
Implementation Method 4
a set of imaging optics positioned in optical communication with the LED array for forming a first image of the LED array at a distance
Data Source
AI summary
A projector assembly includes a light emitting diode (LED) array, wherein the LED array has an array axis, wherein the LED array includes a plurality of LEDs arranged along the array axis, and wherein the plurality of LEDs are individually addressable. The projector assembly includes a rotatable actuator supporting the LED array, wherein the rotatable actuator has a rotation axis, and wherein the rotation axis and the array axis are parallel. The projector assembly includes a collimator positioned in optical communication with the LED array for collimating light emitted from the plurality of LEDs and a set of imaging optics positioned in optical communication with the collimator for focusing collimated light and forming a first image of the LED array at a distance, wherein the first image includes a first axis corresponding to the array axis and a second axis orthogonal to the rotation axis.