Virtual Image Projection Optics for Calibration Distance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems lack the ability to project virtual images at controlled distances with adjustable magnification, leading to inefficiencies in image quality testing and alignment processes.
Innovation Solution
An optical setup comprising a curved mirror, beam splitter, and linear stage that allows for precise adjustment of the distance between the light source and the mirror, enabling controlled projection distances and magnification of virtual images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional optical system is used for image quality testing, then the testing process is simple, but the system cannot project virtual images at controlled distances with adjustable magnification
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into separate functional modules: a display unit for generating the calibration image, a beam splitter for directing light paths, and an adjustable mirror for controlling virtual image projection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling controlled distance projection while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between the light source and mirror is fixed, then the system structure is simple, but the magnification of virtual images cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror is mounted on an adjustable support structure that allows dynamic modification of the distance between the light source and the mirror. This dynamic adjustment capability enables continuous variation of virtual image magnification while maintaining a relatively simple overall system structure, as only the mirror position requires adjustment rather than redesigning the entire optical path.
3Measurement precision
If virtual image projection is added to existing optical systems, then image quality testing capability is improved, but the system length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The beam splitter is positioned at a 45-degree angle to the optical axis, creating a perpendicular light path that directs the calibration image to the mirror and reflects it back to the image formation plane. This dimensional arrangement allows virtual image projection functionality to be integrated into the existing optical system without significantly extending the system length, as the additional optical path is arranged in a perpendicular dimension rather than along the main optical axis.
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 high-quality virtual image projection with minimal distortion, facilitating comprehensive image quality testing and precise alignment of sensor and lens components, and adaptable projection mapping on complex surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a beam splitter for receiving the calibration image and transmitting the calibration image to the concave mirror, and for receiving the mirrored calibration image and transmitting the mirrored calibration image to the image formation plane
Implementation Method 2
a concave mirror; a beam splitter for receiving the calibration image and transmitting the calibration image to the concave mirror
Implementation Method 3
a linear displacement stage for linearly displacing the display relative to the beam splitter and/or for linearly displacing the image formation plane relative to the beam splitter
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
Method and device for projecting a virtual image for calibration of an optical system having an image formation plane (4), comprising: a display (1) for displaying a calibration image; a concave mirror (3); a beam splitter (2) for receiving the calibration image and transmitting the calibration image to the concave mirror (3), and for receiving the mirrored calibration image and transmitting the mirrored calibration image to the image formation plane (4); a linear displacement stage (5) for linearly displacing the display (1) relative to the beam splitter (2) and/or for linearly displacing the image formation plane (4) relative to the beam splitter (2).