Deployable Vehicle Projector Module With Extended Optical Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing entertainment systems for vehicles require significant time and effort to set up, especially in outdoor or harsh environments, due to the need for proper positioning and adjustment of projectors and projector screens.
Innovation Solution
An entertainment apparatus is designed to be stored within a tunnel of a vehicle, with a shuttle extending out to deploy the apparatus. The apparatus includes a projector module that rotates from a storage position to an operational position, and a mirror that extends the optical path to increase the size of the projected image without increasing the apparatus's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entertainment apparatus is stored within a sealed tunnel, then electronic components are protected from environmental conditions, but the apparatus cannot be deployed for use
Solution Approach 1:
The entertainment apparatus is segmented into separable components: the projector module that extends from the tunnel, the projector screen that can be positioned independently, and the support structure. This allows the system to be stored compactly within the sealed tunnel while enabling deployment of individual components for use.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates movable and adjustable components including the extendable projector module, adjustable projector screen position, and rotatable mounting mechanisms. These dynamic elements allow the system to transition from a compact stored state within the tunnel to an operational deployed state while maintaining protection during storage.
2Manufacturing precision
If the projector and projector screen are manually positioned and adjusted, then proper image alignment is achieved, but significant time and effort are required for setup
Solution Approach 1:
The projector module is pre-mounted on an extendable mechanism with pre-configured optical alignment features. The projector screen includes pre-positioned mounting points and alignment guides. These preliminary configurations enable rapid deployment without requiring manual positioning and adjustment, reducing setup time while maintaining alignment precision.
3Area of stationary object
If the optical path length is increased to enlarge the projected image, then the apparatus size must be increased, but compact storage is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the third dimension (depth along the optical path) by extending the projector module outward from the tunnel. This allows the optical path to be lengthened for larger image projection without increasing the footprint or volume of the main apparatus body, enabling compact storage while achieving large projected images when deployed.
4Volume of stationary object
If the projector is fixed in a compact orientation, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the projected image size is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The projector module incorporates a rotatable mounting mechanism that allows it to be oriented at different angles relative to the projector screen. This dynamic positioning capability enables the system to maintain a compact apparatus volume when stored while achieving optimal projected image size when deployed by adjusting the projector's orientation to extend the optical path.
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 solution reduces setup time by allowing the entertainment apparatus to be quickly deployed and positioned, while also protecting electronic components from environmental conditions, and enabling operation in remote or harsh locations.
Implementation Method 1
The projector can project light towards or onto the mirror of the entertainment apparatus. The mirror can reflect the light from the projector back towards the projector screen.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems and methods for a vehicle and projector module. The vehicle can include a compartment. The vehicle can include a projector module configured to extend from the compartment to provide light to a projector screen.