Switchable Optical Element for Compact Image Display Light Path Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image display apparatuses, such as projectors, require significant space to move optical components for detecting light source states, leading to apparatus upsizing due to the need for changing light paths.
Innovation Solution
An image display apparatus with a light source section, an optical element having a light reflection and transmission part, and a holding section that switches between these states to alter the light path without increasing the apparatus size, allowing for easy light path adjustment and reduced movement of optical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a detection sensor is moved on the light path or the light path is changed to detect light source state, then light detection capability is improved, but apparatus size increases due to large space required for moving optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is segmented into a light reflection part and a light transmission part, allowing the light path to be divided into different channels. This segmentation enables simultaneous light detection and image projection without requiring large space for moving components, as each part handles specific light paths independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding section enables dynamic switching between the light reflection part and light transmission part positions, allowing the system to adaptively change light paths based on operational requirements. This dynamic configuration eliminates the need for large mechanical movement spaces while maintaining detection capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical components are moved to change light path, then light path flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases due to movement mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The light reflection part and light transmission part are merged into a single integrated optical element rather than separate components requiring complex movement mechanisms. This merging maintains light path flexibility while significantly reducing mechanical complexity, as the switching is achieved through the holding section controlling the unified optical element's position.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light reflection part and light transmission part are positioned to switch light paths, then light path switching capability is improved, but optical alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element serves multiple functions with both light reflection and light transmission capabilities integrated into a single component. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate optical components that would otherwise require precise alignment, as the universal optical element handles multiple light path functions from a single positioned component.
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 light path changes without upsizing the apparatus, reduces the movement amount of optical elements, and simplifies configurations, while maintaining high brightness and accuracy in image generation and light detection.
Implementation Method 1
The optical element includes a light reflection part and a light transmission part
Implementation Method 2
The optical element includes a light reflection part and a light transmission part provided at a position different from a position of the light reflection part
Data Source
AI summary
An image display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a light source section (610, 650), an optical element (620), and a holding section. The light source section (610, 650) emits light. The optical element (620) includes a light reflection part (626, 656) and a light transmission part (627, 657) provided at a position different from a position of the light reflection part (626, 656). The holding section movably or rotatably holds the optical element (620) and is capable of switching, for example, between a first state in which the light reflection part (626, 656) is arranged on a light path of the emitted light of the light source section (610) and a second state in which the light transmission part (627, 657) is arranged on the light path of the emitted light of the light source section (610).