Socket-Mounted Projector with Dual Lighting and Projection Modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projectors lack versatility and effective utilization of both illuminating and projecting functions, especially in home settings, where they are not commonly used and lack specific methods for switching between these functions.

Innovation Solution

A projector configuration that includes a connecting unit for mounting to a lighting socket, a light source, a light modulating unit, a diffusion adjusting unit, and a communication unit, allowing for remote control and adjustment of the image signal and diffusion degree based on received information, enabling both illuminating and projecting functions to be utilized effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the projector is mounted to a lighting socket for home use, then the projector can function as both lighting and projection equipment, but it becomes difficult to effectively switch between and utilize both functions

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The projector automatically determines whether to perform projection or illumination based on the received image signal characteristics. When the image signal indicates projection content (such as slides, videos, or text), the projector activates the projection function. When the image signal indicates illumination needs (such as dark scenes or low-light conditions), the projector switches to illumination mode. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual switching and enables effective utilization of both functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The projector dynamically adjusts operational parameters based on the received image signal. The control unit analyzes the image signal to determine the appropriate mode (projection or illumination) and adjusts the light source intensity, diffusion degree, and optical path configuration accordingly. This parameter change approach allows seamless transition between functions and effective utilization of the projector's dual capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the projector is used in meeting rooms with dedicated sockets, then the projecting function can be utilized, but the illuminating function cannot be effectively used in home settings

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidproductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The projector is designed with universal functionality to perform both projection and illumination tasks. By analyzing the received image signal characteristics, the projector automatically determines the appropriate function to perform. This multi-functionality design enables the projector to be effectively used in various settings including homes, where it can provide both lighting and projection services, thereby increasing overall productivity and utility.

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

3Measurement precision

If the diffusion degree is adjusted for clear projection, then the projection quality improves, but the illumination coverage and softness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection clarityVSAvoidillumination quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The projector dynamically adjusts the diffusion degree based on the operational mode determined from the image signal. In projection mode, the diffusion degree is set to a lower level to ensure clear and sharp projected images. In illumination mode, the diffusion degree is increased to provide soft, widespread lighting coverage. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the projector to optimize both projection clarity and illumination quality according to the current operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit changes the diffusion parameter based on the determined operational mode. When projection is required, the diffusion degree parameter is adjusted to minimize light scattering for sharp images. When illumination is required, the diffusion degree parameter is adjusted to maximize light distribution and softness. This parameter change approach enables the projector to achieve optimal performance for both projection and illumination functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 easy attachment and effective use of a projector as both lighting and projection equipment in home settings, allowing for versatile use such as displaying messages to family members upon their return, with clear projection and sufficient illumination.

Implementation Method 1

a light source configured to emit light with electric power supplied to the connecting unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Implementation Method 2

a light modulating unit configured to convert the light emitted by the light source into modulated light specified by an image signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight modulation:

Implementation Method 3

a diffusion adjusting unit configured to adjust a diffusion degree of the light made incident on the light modulating unit or the light emitted from the light modulating unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight diffusion: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS9554103B2Projector and control method therefor
Publication Date: 2017.01.24 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US9554103B2 patent drawing
  • US9554103B2 patent drawing
  • US9554103B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A projector can be easily attached by mounting a connecting unit to a socket for illumination in an ordinary home. Since the projector includes a communication unit configured to receive an electronic mail, the projector updates an image signal and adjusts a diffusion degree of modulated light by a light-diffusion adjusting unit on the basis of contents of the mail received by the communication unit. Therefore, when a user desires to inform family members who will return home that the user suddenly has to go out, if the user transmits in advance, to the projector, a mail including a message for a family member who returns home, the family member who returns home turns on an illumination switch at the entrance, whereby the projector can start up, perform an illuminating function, and clearly project and display the message.