Spatial Light Modulator Brightness Limiting via Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing pricing structure for spatial light modulators (SLMs) is disrupted when low-brightness SLMs are used in high-brightness applications, as customers can purchase cheaper low-brightness SLMs and utilize them in high-brightness scenarios, defeating the intended pricing structure, and there are differences in thermal dissipation and construction that affect device lifespan and image quality.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a controller that determines the brightness level of an image and enforces a brightness limit by reducing the attribute of the image, such as limiting the average picture level (APL), using an identification (ID) function to manage SLM capabilities, and modifying existing algorithms to restrict brightness in low-brightness applications, ensuring the SLMs are used within their intended brightness limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If low-brightness SLMs are used in high-brightness applications, then cost is reduced, but pricing structure integrity deteriorates and device reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the brightness parameter of the displayed image through software control. The controller adjusts the average picture level (APL) parameter to enforce brightness limits, thereby preventing low-brightness SLMs from being used in high-brightness applications while maintaining pricing structure integrity. This software-based parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the SLM effectively adaptable to its intended brightness class without physical modification.
2Reliability
If brightness limiting is enforced through controller algorithms, then pricing structure integrity is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the existing SLM controller perform multiple functions: it continues to drive the SLM for image display while also enforcing brightness limits through modified algorithms. The controller universally manages both the normal display operation and the brightness restriction function, avoiding the need for separate dedicated brightness control hardware and thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If existing algorithms are modified to restrict brightness, then pricing structure integrity is maintained, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-modifying the controller algorithms during the manufacturing process to include brightness limiting functionality. The brightness restriction logic is built into the controller software before the product reaches the customer, so no additional manufacturing steps or complex assembly processes are required. This preliminary integration of brightness control into the existing algorithm simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining pricing structure integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a spatial light modulator (SLM) configured to project an image. The system also includes a controller coupled to the SLM. The controller is configured to receive the image and determine a brightness level of the image. The controller is also configured to enforce a brightness limit on the image responsive to the brightness level, to produce a reduced image. The controller is configured to instruct a display to display the reduced image.