Split Aperture Projector Camera Optical Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projector-camera systems face challenges in mobility and calibration complexity, with separate camera systems requiring difficult alignment and integrated camera systems limiting functionality and suffering from image degradation.
Innovation Solution
A dual-aperture optical apparatus with a shared lens group for both projector and camera functions, utilizing a spatial light modulator, lenses, and a sensor to achieve autofocus, touch sensing, and parallax-based distance measurement, allowing for precise image projection and detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate camera system is used to detect touch on the projected image, then touch detection functionality is achieved, but calibration complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the camera system with the projector by integrating the camera lens with the projector lens assembly. The camera shares the projector's optical path and mechanical housing, eliminating the need for separate calibration procedures. The camera sensor is positioned to receive reflected light from the projection screen through the same optical elements used for projection, creating a unified system where calibration is inherently synchronized.
Solution Approach 2:
The projector lens assembly serves dual functions: projecting images onto the screen and capturing reflected light for touch detection. The same optical elements (lenses, aperture, housing) are utilized for both projection and camera functions, reducing system complexity and eliminating separate calibration requirements for the camera component.
2Device complexity
If the camera is concentrically integrated into the projector, then device complexity is reduced, but information determination capability and image quality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The lens assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones: the projector optical path and the camera optical path. The camera lens is positioned within the projector housing but maintains a separate optical channel that receives reflected light from the screen. This segmentation allows the camera to capture sufficient light information for accurate touch detection while remaining integrated within the projector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection screen acts as an intermediary element that reflects light back to the camera sensor. The camera does not directly view the projection source but captures reflected light from the screen surface, enabling touch detection while maintaining optical separation between the projector and camera functions. This intermediary approach preserves image quality and touch detection precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a laser curtain system is mounted to the display screen, then touch detection is achieved, but system mobility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is merged with the projector unit, creating a single portable device that provides both projection and touch detection capabilities. The camera is integrated into the projector housing and shares its power source and control system, eliminating the need for separate laser curtain mounting hardware and enabling easy system mobility while maintaining full touch detection 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 easy integration into ultra-short throw projectors, simplifies calibration, and enhances functionality by providing precise focus and touch detection, while maintaining image quality and allowing for advanced features like optical super resolution.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens group to receive light from the spatial light modulator and to project the light onto a target through a first aperture of the second optical element
Implementation Method 2
a second lens group to receive reflected light reflected from the target
Implementation Method 3
a second lens group to receive reflected light reflected from the target and to provide the reflected light to a sensor through a second aperture of the second optical element
Implementation Method 4
a spatial light modulator
Data Source
AI summary
Described examples include an optical apparatus having a first lens, a first optical element having a first aperture, a second lens, and a second optical element having a second aperture. The optical apparatus includes a third lens having a first portion to receive projected light from the first lens through the first aperture and to project the projected light onto a target. Also, the third lens has a second portion to receive reflected light reflected from the target and to provide the reflected light to the second lens through the second aperture.