US010134317B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 10 ,134,317 B2

Li et al. (45 ) Date of Patent: Nov. 20 , 2018
(54 ) PROJECTION DEVICE , PROJECTION
CONTROL SYSTEM , AND PROJECTION
(58 ) Field of Classification Search
CPC .... HO4N 9 /315 ; H04N 9 /3158 ; HO4N 9 /3188;
CONTROL METHOD H04N 9 /3194 ; H04N 9 /3108; H04N 9/31 ;
( 71 ) Applicant: APPOTRONICS CHINA (Continued )
CORPORATION , Shenzhen (CN ) (56 ) References Cited
(72) Inventors : Yi Li, Pleasanton , CA (US ); Zeqin U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
Wang, Shenzhen (CN )
(73 ) Assignee: APPOTRONICS CORPORATION 8 ,287 , 133 B2 10 /2012 Watanabe et al.
2007 /0013871 A11 /2007 Marshall et al.
LIMITED , Shenzhen (CN ) (Continued )
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U .S .C . 154 (b ) by 0 days. CN 101095184 A 12 /2007
CN 101929637 A 12 / 2010
( 21 ) Appl. No.: 15 /548 ,395 (Continued )
(22 ) PCT Filed: Jan . 28, 2016 OTHER PUBLICATIONS
(86 ) PCT No .: PCT/CN2016 /072438 International Search Report in the parent PCT application No.
$ 371 (c )( 1), PCT/ CN2016 /072438, dated Apr. 25, 2016 .
(2 ) Date: Aug. 2, 2017 (Continued )
(87 ) PCT Pub . No.: W02016 /124094 Primary Examiner — Sherrie Hsia
PCT Pub. Date: Aug. 11, 2016 (74) Attorney , Agent, or Firm — Chen Yoshimura LLP
(65 ) Prior Publication Data (57) ABSTRACT
US 2018 /0033357 A1 Feb . 1, 2018 Provided is a projection device , comprising a light-emitting
( 30 ) Foreign Application Priority Data apparatus, a spatial light modulator, a pixel shifting appa
ratus , a projection lens, and a control processor ; the light
Feb . 5 , 2015 (CN ) . ....... ....... 2015 1 0060703 emitting apparatus comprises an excitation light source , a
colored - light generating apparatus , and a drive apparatus ;
(51) Int. Ci. the control processor is separately connected to the drive
H04N 931 ( 2006 .01) apparatus, the light source , the spatial lightmodulator, and
GO9G 3 /00 ( 2006 .01) the pixel shifting apparatus , and is used for : controlling the
GO3B 33 /08 ( 2006 .01) frequency of periodic motion of the drive apparatus ; while
the drive apparatus moves the conversion area of the col
G09G 3 /34 ( 2006 .01) ored -light generating apparatus to pass across the position
(52) U .S . CI. illuminated by the excitation light, shutting off the light
CPC .............. G09G 3 /007 (2013 .01 ); GO3B 33/08 source or controlling the spatial light modulator to enter a
(2013.01 ); H04N 9 /31 ( 2013 .01) ; H04N non - projecting state . No light passes through the pixel
9 /3155 (2013. 01 ); shifting apparatus when it is changing states, thus it is
(Continued ) (Continued )

309
301 302 303 305
Exdi ho
pixelshift 308
tation Disini
light
source 304 306

control SLM
processor 307
311

310
 US 10, 134 ,317 B2
Page 2
prevented from affecting the contrast. Also provided are a 2008/0151356 AL 6 / 2008 Fujita et al .
projection control system and a projection control method . 2009/0115917 A1 * 5 /2009 Horikawa .......... GO2B 26 /0841
348 /745
16 Claims, 5 Drawing Sheets 2010 /0283977 A1 11/2010 Wang et al.
2011 /0090465 AL 4 / 2011 Watanabe et al.
(52 ) U . S . CI. FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
CPC ......... H04N 9/3158 (2013 .01 ); H04N 9/3188
(2013 .01) ; H04N 9 /3194 ( 2013 .01); GO9G CN 102043314 A 5 /2011
3 /3406 (2013.01) ; G09G 2310/0235 (2013 .01); EP 0751683 A2 1 /1997
GO9G 2310 /0237 (2013 .01) ; G09G 2320/0238 2004 - 180011 A 6 /2004
(2013.01 ); G09G 2320 /0252 ( 2013 .01) ; GO9G JP 2006146036 A 6 /2006
2340/0414 (2013.01); G09G 2340/0421 2007 - 163943 A 6 /2007
(2013 .01 ) JE 2008139700 A 6 / 2008

(58 ) Field of Classification Search

CPC .... H04N 9/312 ; H04N 9/3141; H04N 9 /3197 ; OTHER PUBLICATIONS
GO9G 3 /007 ; GO9G 2320 /0252 IPRP in the parent PCT application No. PCT/CN2016 /072438 ,
USPC . ..... 348 /742, 743, 744 , 759, 766 , 770 , 771 , dated Aug. 8 , 2017 .
348 / 790 , 580 ; 353/31, 34 , 37 ; 345/ 56 Japanese Office Action , dated May 29 , 2018 in a counterpart
See application file for complete search history . Japanese patent application, No. JP 2017 -540842.
Chinese Office Action , dated Aug . 25 , 2017 , and Search Report
( 56 ) References Cited dated Aug. 17 , 2017 , in a counterpart Chinese patent application ,
No . CN 201510060703 . 8 .
U .S. PATENT DOCUMENTS Chinese Office Action , dated Jun. 11 , 2018 in a counterpart Chinese
patent application , No. CN 201510060703.8 .
2007/0236616 A1 * 10 / 2007 Pettitt ................. GO2B 26 /008
348 / 743 * cited by examiner
us pe randon - samoore
atent Nov . 20 , 2018 Sheet 1 of 5 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2

100
114Tutt

Oripove N

A
dictiorbisheiniti
r.
Astrant
Hedis artir sh
NA
N

N
.

MAYRN * * * * * * *

Fig. 1

309
301 302 303 305
Exdi pixel'shift ) 308
tation
light
source 304 306

TYPIF
fcopoeces or
control
processor
SLM
307

310
Fig . 2
atent Nov . 20 , 2018 Sheet 2 of 5 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2

303 002

001

4u-

111

004
003
Fig . 3

model 003

001
relationand 105

106

002
| 004

Fig . 4
 atent Nov . 20 , 2018 Sheet 3 of 5 US 10 ,134 ,317 B2

Image A

w + +
-

- - - - - - - - - - - -
? ? ?? ??? ??? ??? ? ? ? ???? ??? ?? ?? ??? ?? ? ?? ? ???? ??? ???? ???? ???? ??? wyt - - * . + + +
-

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
-

Wwwwwwww H Www with white

-
-

L . Wir hit wthe r ite the with mewith he way thatt h e wette with the the who
-

Image B

Fig . 5

609 600
603
601 602 605 Dit
shift 607
Exc
tation
lightAMAAAAwww
org

source .
SLM
A

611
control
processor

610

Fig. 6
atent Nov . 20 , 2018 Sheet 4 of 5 US 10 , 134 , 317 B2

001 603
008
002

003

007
004

006
003

Fig. 7
002
001
003
004
-
-
-
4

- -

- -

-
-
-

Fig. 8
 atent Nov. 20, 2018 Sheet 5 of 5 Us 10,134,317 B2

909 908
903 pixel
901 902 905 shift
Exci
tation ? ??? ??? ???
ligh ? ?? ? ?? ? ? | ? ?? ?

source ?? ?
SLM

? 911
control
processor

19l0
Fig . 9
 US 10 ,134 ,317 B2
PROJECTION DEVICE , PROJECTION Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a pro
CONTROL SYSTEM , AND PROJECTION jection device , projection control system and projection
CONTROL METHOD control method that can improve display quality of DLP
projection devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In one aspect, the present invention provides a projection
device ,which includes : an image light generating device , for
Field of the Invention generating an image light for forming a projected image ; a
pixel shifting device, disposed on a transmission path of the
This invention relates to projection technologies, and in image light generated by the image light generating device ,
particular, it relates to a projection device , projection control the pixel shifting device being configured to switch its state
system and projection control method . between a first state and a second state , wherein a first
projected image formed after the image light passes through
Description of Related Art the pixel shifting device when the pixel shifting device is in
the first state and a second projected image formed after the
In recent years , with the development of display tech image light passes through the pixel shifting device when
nologies , people have increasing expectations for image the pixel shifting device is in the second state are shifted
display quality of display devices . Increasing the resolution with respect to each other (the pixel shifting device can
of a display is considered an effective way to improve image cause the first projected image and the second projected
display quality . In the projection area , 4K2K spatial light 20 image to shift; more specifically , by the switching of state ,
modulator panels based on LCOS (Liquid Crystal On Sili - the first projected image and the second projected image are
con ) and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display ) technologies have projected to different locations , to achieve the shifting
been developed . 4K2K is a term used in the display area , effect ); and a control processor , respectively coupled to the
generally referring to a high display resolution of approxi- image light generating device and the pixel shifting device ,
mately 4K pixels in the horizontal direction and approxi- 25 wherein the control processor controls the pixel shifting
mately 2K pixels in the vertical direction , for example , a device to perform a switching of state , and during a time
resolution of 3840x2160 pixels . However, such panels are interval when the pixel shifting device performs the switch
still relatively expensive . 4K2K panels based on DLP (Digi- ing of state , controls the image light generating device to
tal Light Processing ) are still not available due to difficulties generate no image light.
in structural designs or manufacturing . 30 In one embodiment, the image light generating device
includes: a light generating device for generating a projec
SUMMARY tion light ; and a spatial light modulator, for receiving the
projection light generated by the light generating device, and
modulating the projection light based on input image signal
itedFor cost concerns
) developed , JVC
e - shift (Victor
( pixel Company
shifting of Japan
) technology , Lim 35 to output the image light, wherein the control processor
to realize
4K2K display . This technology uses a 2K1K spatial light controls the spatial light modulator based on the input image
signal to modulate the projection light.
modulator panel, and uses an e -shift device to shift the In one embodiment, the spatial lightmodulator is a digital
image pixels in a diagonal direction by one half of a pixel micromirror device or a Liquid Crystal On Silicon device .
size, to realize 4K2K display. 2K1K is a term used in the
display area , generally referring to a resolution of approxi 40 pixel In one embodiment, during the time interval when the
shifting device performs the switching of state , the
mately 2K pixels in the horizontal direction and approxi control processor controls the spatial light modulator to be
mately 1K pixels in the vertical direction
curection,, Tor
for example
example ,, aa inin aa non
non --projecting
pro state, or controls the light generating
resolution of 1920x1080 pixels . This technology utilizes device to generate no light, whereby the image light gener
polarization light panels (LCOS or LCD ), and the e - shift 45 ating device generates no image light.
device can be implemented by electro - optical effect, mag - In one embodiment, the light generating device includes :
neto -optical effect, or acousto -optic effect. The switching a light source for generating a light; a color light generating
speeds of these e -shift implementations are very fast, i.e ., the device in some embodiment, the color light generating
diagonal shifting speed is very fast and can satisfy the device is a wavelength conversion device , such as a phos
requirement of display . 50 phor wheel, a color wheel, etc .; in other embodiments , it can
Some manufacturers have applied e -shift technology to also be a filter wheel), including a plurality of color seg
DLP projection devices, to increase their image resolution . ments and a transition segment, wherein each color segment
As shown in FIG . 1 , which illustrates the working principle generates a projection light of a corresponding color when
of an e -shift device manufactured by TI ( Texas Instruments ). illuminated by the light generated by the light source ; and a
This technology uses a spinning glass plate 100 to achieve 55 drive device , coupled to the color light generating device ,
the diagonal shifting of pixels by one half of a pixel size . for driving the light generating device to move periodically
Assuming that the size of a pixel is 5 .4 microns, then the relative to an illumination position of the light generated by
diagonal shift of one half of a pixel size is 3 .818 microns. the light source formed on the color light generating device ,
Assuming that the material of the glass plate is BK7 and its wherein the color segments and the transition segmentof the
thickness is 0 .7 mm , then the glass plate needs to be rotated 60 color light generating device are sequentially moved to pass
by approximately 0 .92 degrees . Because the glass plate is the illumination position of the light generated by the light
not a micro structure , its rotation is not very fast, and source according to a predefined order ; wherein the control
typically requires 0 .5 msec to rotate the above angle. Thus, processor is respectively coupled to the drive device, the
it is not easy to achieve fast speed when using the e - shift spatial light modulator and the pixel shifting device , for
technology in DLP projection devices. Also , it has been 65 controlling a frequency of the periodic movement of the
shown that when used in DLP projectors, the image drive device , and for controlling the pixel shifting device to
enhancement effect of e - shift devices limited . perform the switching of state during a time interval when
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
the drive device drives the transition segment to move to In one embodiment, the image light generating device
pass the illumination position of the light generated by the includes : a light generating device for generating a projec
light source . tion light ; and a spatial light modulator, for receiving the
An operation of the drive device driving the transition projection light generated by the light generating device , and
segment to move to pass the illumination position of the 5 modulates the projection light based on input image signal
light generated by the light source and an operation of the to output the image light. The control system further
includes: a second unit, for controlling the spatial light
pixel shifting device switching its state may be performed modulator based on the input image signal to modulate the
during a same time interval or during time intervals close to projection light.
each other.
In one embodiment, the color light generating device 10 micromirror
In one embodiment, the spatial lightmodulator is a digital
device or a Liquid Crystal On Silicon device .
further includes a sensing device , for generating a shifting In one embodiment , during the time interval when the
feedback signal when the transition segment is illuminated pixel shifting device performs
by the light generated by the light source , and transmitting unit controls the spatial lightthemodulator
switching of state , the first
to be in a non
the shifting feedback signal to the control processor,wherein
wherein 15 projecting state, or controls the light generating device to
based on the shifting feedback signal, the control processor generate no light, whereby the image light generating device
controls the pixel shifting device to perform the switching of generates no image light.
state and controls the image light generating device to In one embodiment, the light generating device includes :
generate no image light on the pixel shifting device . a light source for generating a light; a color light generating
During the time interval when the drive device drives the 20 device in some embodiment, the color light generating
transition segment to move to pass the illumination position device is a wavelength conversion device , such as a phos
of the light generated by the light source , the control phor wheel, a color wheel, etc .; in other embodiments , it can
processor controls the spatial light modulator to be in a also be a filter wheel), including a plurality of color seg
non -projecting state , and during a time interval when the ments and a transition segment, wherein each color segment
drive device drives the color segments to move to pass the 25 generates a projection light of a corresponding color when
illumination position of the light generated by the light illuminated by the light generated by the light source ; and a
source, the control processor controls the spatial lightmodu - drive device, coupled to the color light generating device ,
lator to be in a projecting state ; or the control processor is for driving the light generating device to move periodically
further coupled to the light source , and wherein during the relative to an illumination position of the light generated by
time interval when the drive device drives the transition 30 the light source illuminating on the color light generating
segment to move to pass the illumination position of the device , wherein the color segments and the transition seg
light generated by the light source , the control processor ment of the color light generating device are sequentially
controls the light source to be off , and during a time interval moved to pass the illumination position of the light gener
when the drive device drives the color segments to move to ated by the light source according to a predefined order. The
pass the illumination position of the light generated by the 35 control system further includes : a third unit, for determining
light source , the control processor controls light source to be a frequency of the periodic movement of the drive device
on ; or the transition segment of the color light generating based on a frame rate of the display image, and for control
device includes an opaque material. ling the drive device to move periodically based on the
In one embodiment, the device further includes projection frequency ; wherein the first unit further controls the pixel
lenses for receiving the image light after it passes through 40 shifting device to perform the switching of state during a
the pixel shifting device and projecting the image light onto time interval when the drive device drives the transition
a screen to form an image . segment to move to pass the illumination position of the
In another aspect, the present invention provides a control light generated by the light source , and controls the pixel
system for a projection device (i.e. a controller processor or shifting device to perform no switching of state during a
a control chip for the projection device ) . 45 time interval when the drive device drives the color segment
The projection device includes: an image light generating to move to pass the illumination position of the light
device, for generating an image light for forming a projected generated by the light source .
image ; a pixel shifting device , disposed on a transmission In one embodiment, an operation of the drive device
path of the image light generated by the image light gener - driving the transition segment to move to pass the illumi
ating device , the pixel shifting device being configured to 50 nation position of the light generated by the light source and
switch its state between a first state and a second state , an operation of the pixel shifting device switching its state
wherein a first projected image formed after the image light are performed during a same time interval or during time
passes through the pixel shifting device when the pixel intervals close to each other.
shifting device is in the first state and a second projected In one embodiment, the color light generating device
image formed after the image light passes through the pixel 55 further includes a sensing device , for generating a shifting
shifting device when the pixel shifting device is in the feedback signal when the transition segment is illuminated
second state are shifted with respect to each other (the pixel by the light generated by the light source , and transmitting
shifting device can cause the first projected image and the the shifting feedback signal to the first unit of the control
second projected image to shift; more specifically , by the system , wherein based on the shifting feedback signal, the
switching of state , the first projected image and the second 60 first unit of the control system controls the pixel shifting
projected image are projected to different locations, to device to perform the switching of state and controls the
achieve the shifting effect ). The control system includes : a image light generating device to generate no image light on
first unit for controlling the pixel shifting device to perform the pixel shifting device.
a switching of state , and controlling the image light gener- In one embodiment, during the time interval when the
ating device to generate no image light during a time interval 65 drive device drives the transition segment to move to pass
when the pixel shifting device performs the switching of the illumination position of the light generated by the light
state . source , the first unit controls the spatial lightmodulator to be
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
in a non -projecting state, and during a time interval when the FIG . 9 schematically illustrates the structure of a projec
drive device drives the color segments to move to pass the tion device according to a fourth embodiment of the present
illumination position of the light generated by the light invention .
source , the first unit controls the spatial lightmodulator to be
in a projecting state; or wherein during the time interval 5 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED
when the drive device drives the transition segment to move EMBODIMENTS
to pass the illumination position of the light generated by the
light source, the first unit controls the light source to be off, Embodiments of the present invention are described in
and during a time interval when the drive device drives the detail below with reference to the drawings.
color segments to move to pass the illumination position of 10 A DLP projection device commonly includes a light
the light generated by the light source , the first unit controls generating device, a spatial light modulator, projection
light source to be on . lenses and a control processor. The light generating device
In one embodiment, the device further includes projection generates a light sequence of multiple different colored
lenses for receiving the image light after it passes through monochromatic lights in a predetermined time sequence .
the pixel shifting device and projecting the image light onto The controller processor convers video signal of each frame
a screen to form an image . to multiple single - color image signals , and controls the
In a third aspect, the present invention provides a projec - spatial light modulator to modulate the input light sequence
tion control method , which includes the following steps. based on the multiple single - color image signals . When a
Controlling a spatial lightmodulator based on input image 20 pixel shifting device is implemented in the DLP projection
signal to modulate an input light and output an image light. device , the inventors of this invention discovered that the
Passing the image light through a pixel shifting device to pixel shifting device has an adverse impact on the contrast
generate a projection light. of the projected image. Through study, the inventors dis
Controlling the pixel shifting device to switch its state covered that during the time interval the pixel shifting
between a first state and a second state , wherein a first 25 device switches its states, if the light is illuminated on the
projected image formed after the image light passes through pixel shifting device, it will cause the image contrast to
the pixel shifting device when the pixel shifting device is in decrease , which lowers the image quality of the display . The
the first state and a second projected image formed after the inventors further discovered that various control techniques
image light passes through the pixel shifting device when may be employed such than during the time interval when
the pixel shifting device is in the second state are shifted 30 the pixel shifting device is switching its state , no light is
with respect to each other, and preventing the image light switching illuminated on the pixel shifting device; and after the state
from passing through the pixel shifting device during a time may be controlled of the pixel shifting device is completed , the light
interval when the pixel shifting device performs the switch normally . This way ,to theilluminate
image
the pixel shifting device
resolution is improved by
ing of state . 35 using the pixel shifting device with state switching , and at
In the above projection control method , the method of *
preventing the image light from passing through the pixel the same time, the contrast is not adversely impacted .
shifting device includes : controlling the spatial light modu First Embodiment
lator to be in a non - projecting state ; or controlling the input
light to turn off . 40 FIG . 2 schematically illustrates the structure of a projec
An advantage of the embodiments of the present inven - tion device according to a first embodiment of the present
tion is that, because during the time interval when the pixel invention . The projection device includes an excitation light
shifting device is performing the switching operation , no source 301, a wavelength conversion device 303 which
light passes through the pixel shifting device , the degrada - receives the excitation light illuminated on it and converts
tion of the contrast of the projected image is prevented . 45 the excitation light to converted lights, a spatial light modu
lator (SLM ) 307, a pixel shifting device 308 , projection
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS lenses 309 and a control processor 311 . In a preferred
embodiment, the projection device may further include an
FIG . 1 schematically illustrates the working principle of input lens 302, a light shaping lens 304, an output lens 305
a conventional pixel shifting device . 50 and a prism 306 .
FIG . 2 schematically illustrates the structure of a projec - The excitation light source 301, the input lens 302, the
tion device according to a first embodiment of the present wavelength conversion device 303 , the light shaping lens
invention . 304 and a drive device ( e . g . a motor, not shown in the
FIG . 3 schematically illustrates the structure of a color 55 drawings ) together form a light generating device , which
generates a periodic color light sequence, and outputs the
wheel used in the first embodiment . color light sequence along a predetermined light path . This
FIG . 4 schematically illustrates the structure of another light sequence passes through the output lens 305 and the
color wheel used in the first embodiment. prism 306 , and is inputted to the spatial light modulator 307.
FIG . 5 schematically illustrates the effect of image pro In this embodiment, the wavelength conversion device
jection of the first embodiment . 60 may be implemented as a rotating color wheel 303 , and the
FIG . 6 schematically illustrates the structure of a projec - drive device drives the color wheel 303 to rotate , such that
tion device according to a second embodiment of the present the color wheel 303 moves periodically relative to the
invention. excitation light illuminating on its surface . In other embodi
FIG . 7 schematically illustrates the structure of a color ments , the wavelength conversion device may be driven in
wheel used in the second embodiment. 65 other ways by drive devices to achieve a periodic movement
FIG . 8 schematically illustrates the structure of a color of the wavelength conversion device relative to the excita
wheel used in a third embodiment of the present invention . tion light, such as a linear oscillation .
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
The excitation light source 301 emits an excitation light color wheel 303 ; the wavelength conversion material illu
with a relatively short wavelength , which can excite the minated by the light spot converts the excitation light to a
wavelength conversion material (such as a phosphor pow - converted light having a wavelength corresponding to the
der ) to generate a converted light. For example, the excita wavelength conversion material. Because the position of the
tion light source 301 may be a blue LED ( light emitting 5 light spot is fixed relative to the rotation shaft, when the
diode), a UV ( ultraviolet) LED , or their arrays , or a blue LD color wheel 303 rotates around the shaft, the multiple color
(laser diode ), a UV LD , or their arrays . In some embodi segments that are distribute in the angular direction around
ments , the excitation light source 301 may emit a white light. the axis of the shaft sequentially pass through the position
The input lens 302 is disposed on the optical path between illuminated by the light spot, so the wavelength conversion
the excitation light source 301 and the color wheel 303 . The 10 materials in the multiple color segments convert the exci
input lens 302 focuses the light , so that the excitation light tation light to corresponding converted lights . The converted
emitted by the excitation light source 301 is focused and lights ofmultiple different colors form a periodic sequential
incident on the color wheel 303 to form a light spot of a light sequence which is output from the color wheel 303 .
defined shape. In other embodiments , the excitation light The color wheel 303 may be a transmission type or a
source 301 and the input lens 302 may be integrated 15 reflective type. In some embodiments , the single color
together , i. e ., a input lens 302 may be formed on the light wavelength conversion materials are coated on a substrate or
output surface of the excitation light source 301 , so that the mixed into the substrate to achieve wavelength conversion .
excitation light source 301 has an output light focusing Also , when the excitation light is a white light, the color
function . wheel 303 may be implemented by appropriate color filters
The color wheel 303 may have a round shape, such as a 20 which change the wavelength of the white light. When the
ring shape or a round plate shape , or a rectangular shape, etc . excitation light is a blue light, the blue segment of the color
In this embodiment, at least some of the regions of the color wheel 303 may be a blue light transmission segment that
wheel 303 are color segments . The color segments are directly transmits the blue light.
coated with or otherwise formed with at least two wave Those skilled in the art would understand that the color
length conversion materials; different wavelength conver - 25 wheel 303 may be implemented by other devices depending
sion materials are formed in different regions to form on the particular applications. For example , for a single - chip
different color segments . In this embodiment, there are at projection system , the color wheel 303 may include red ,
least two color segments . The color wheel 303 further green and blue three primary color segments ; for a two - chip
includes a transition segment, which is located on the color projection system , the color wheel 303 may include blue and
wheel 303 adjacent to the color segments . FIG . 3 schemati- 30 yellow segments , or cyan and red segments, or green and
cally illustrates the structure of a color wheel of this embodi- magenta segments . For a three - chip projection system , a
ment. The color wheel 303 includes the transition segment blue light source can be paired with a yellow segment, or a
001, a red segment 002 , a green segment 003 and a blue red light source can be paired with a cyan segment, etc . For
segment 004 . The transition segment 001, the red segment specific color wheels , the specific control method of the
002, the green segment 003 and the blue segment 004 are 35 projection system need to be adjusted accordingly ; this is
arranged adjacent to each other in a predefined order along familiar to those skilled in the art, and will not be described
a circumferential direction of the color wheel 303 . The color in detailed here .
wheel 303 further includes spoke segments , which are the The excitation light emitted by the excitation light source
border regions between adjacent color segments . The spoke 301 is focused by the focusing lens 302 onto the color wheel
segments are used to separate the materials of the adjacent 40 303. By setting the spatial relationship among the excitation
color segments ; smaller and more sharply defined spoke light source 301, the input lens 302 and the color wheel 303 ,
segments indicate fine manufacturing techniques of the color and by adjusting the parameters of the input lens 302, the
wheel 303 . When the projection device is in an operating position and orientation of the light spot of the excitation on
state, the color wheel 303 which is mounted on the motor is the color wheel 303 can be controlled , and the light emitting
driven by the motor to rotate ; because the color wheel 303 45 efficiency and conversion efficiency can be improved .
is disposed on the path of the excitation light and faces the The light shaping lens 304 is disposed on the output path
excitation light, the excitation light forms an illumination of the converted light, for receiving the color light sequence
light spot on the color wheel 303 which moves relative to the including the converted lights emitted by the color wheel
color wheel 303 in a circular path 111 . FIG . 3 shows, only 303 , and shaping the beam shape. The light is then focused
as an example , the color wheel 303 having the red segment 50 by the output lens 305 and the light traveling direction is
002, the green segment 003 and the blue segment 004 ; in changed by the prism 306 ; the color light sequence is then
other embodiment, the color segments may include red , incident onto the spatial light modulator 307. The color
green and yellow segments, or there may be only two color wheel 303 and the light shaping lens 304 may be integrated
segments, or four or more color segments. In one example, together, i.e ., a light shaping lens 304 may be formed on the
in addition to the red , green and blue segments , the color 55 light emitting surface of the color wheel 303 to adjust the
wheel further includes a white segment and a yellow seg - output angles of the color light sequence including the
ment. In the five- color -segment example shown in FIG . 4 , in converted lights.
addition to the transition segment 001, the red segment 002 , The spatial light modulator 307 receives the converted
the green segment 003, and the blue segment 004 , the color light from the wavelength conversion device , and modulates
wheel further includes a white segment 105 and a yellow 60 the converted light based on input image signals , to generate
segment 106 . The transition segment 001 may include any an image light. In this embodiment, the spatial light modu
wavelength conversion material to emit a color light when lator 307 is a digital mirror device or digital micromirror
illuminated by the excitation light. The transition segment device , DMD ). The DMD typically uses a digitalmicromir
001 may also include no wavelength conversion material, or ror chip , which can be thought of as a semiconductor light
may be coated with a non -transparent material. The excita - 65 switch . Tens of thousand of micro mirrors are formed on a
tion light emitted by the excitation light source 301 is static random access memory (SRAM ) to form a digital
focused by the input lens 302 to form a light spot on the micromirror device , where each mirror can turn on or off the
 US 10 ,134,317 B2
10
light of one pixel. The light “ on ” and “ off” are achieved by light; the excitation light is focused by the input lens 302 to
controlling the switching of the mirror between two slanted be incident on the color wheel 303 , to form a light spot on
states. For example, a slanting angle of + 10 degrees may be the color wheel 303 . When the color wheel is rotated to a
“ on ” and - 10 degrees may be “ off” (or + 12 degrees may be position where the light spot is located in the red segment
" on " and - 12 degrees for “ off ” , etc .). When the mirrors are 5 002 , the control processor 311 controls the spatial light
not in operation , they are at a 0 degree “ parking ” state . The modulator 307 to display the red image data ; when the color
0 degree " parking ” state and the “ off” state are referred to as wheel is rotated to a position where the light spot is located
non -projecting state . Also , by controlling the “ on ” time in the green segment 003 , the control processor 311 controls
duration and speed , the brightness of the pixels can be the spatial light modulator 307 to display the green image
modulated . 10 data ; and when the color wheel is rotated to a position where
The pixel shifting device 308 is employed to shift the the light spot is located in the blue segment 004 , the control
output position of the input light. It has two states, and by processor 311 controls the spatial light modulator 307 to
switching between the two states , the image formed by the display the blue image data ; this completes the display of
projected light is shifted along a predetermined direction by one frame of RGB image . Because of the effect of persis
a predetermined amount before and after the shifting opera - 15 tence of vision , the viewer perceives the image A located at
tion . For ease of description , as shown in FIG . 5 , assume that the position indicated by the solid lines in FIG . 5 .
when the pixel shifting device 308 is in the first state , the Then , when the color wheel is rotated to a position where
image formed by the projected light after the shifting device the light spot is located in the transition segment 001, the
is image A , and after the switching of state so that the pixel control processor 311 controls the excitation light source
shifting device 308 is in the second state, the image formed 20 301 to turn off , and controls the pixel shifting device 308 to
by the projected light after the shifting device is image B . perform a state switching operation , to switch the state of the
The shifting effect of the image A and the image B may be pixel shifting device 308 to the second state . Thus, in this
a shift along a diagonal direction of the image A by one half state , the image formed by the projected light after passing
a pixel size , as shown in FIG . 5 . In some embodiments, through the pixel shifting device 308 , as compared to the
depending on the design , the image B may be shifted along 25 image A , is shifted by one half the pixel size in the diagonal
the horizontal direction of the image Aby one half the pixel direction . By setting the angular range of the transition
size , or shifted along the vertical direction of the image A by segment 001 on the color wheel and the switching speed of
one half the pixel size . The shifting amount is not limited to the pixel shifting device 308 , the operation of the drive
one half the pixel size , and may also be 1 / N of the pixel size, device driving the transition segment to move and pass the
or N times the pixel size , where N is a natural number. The 30 illumination position of the excitation light and the switch
pixel shifting device 308 may be a currently available ing operation of the pixel shifting device 308 to occur within
product that can achieve the above function , or similar the same time interval or in time intervals close to each
products that may become available in the future . A product other , so that when the shifting operation of the pixel shifting
manufactured by JVC may be used directly to implement the device 308 is completed , the color wheel rotates by exactly
pixel shifting device 308 . 35 one revolution such that the illumination spot is located in
The control processor 311 is the main control and pro the red segment again . Thus, by repeating the above process,
cessing device of the projector device . It is used to for data when the color wheel 303 is rotated to a position where the
processing and for controlling the various components of the light spot is located in the red segment 002 , the control
projector device , and may include: a unit for determining the processor 311 controls the spatial light modulator 307 to
movement frequency of the periodic movement of the drive 40 display the red image data ; when the color wheel is rotated
device based on the frame rate of the image signal to be to a position where the light spot is located in the green
displayed ; a unit for controlling the drive device to move segment 003, the control processor 311 controls the spatial
periodically based on the movement frequency ; a unit for light modulator 307 to display the green image data ; and
controlling the on and off of the excitation light source 301 ; when the color wheel is rotated to a position where the light
a unit for receiving a feedback signal from the color wheel 45 spot is located in the blue segment 004 , the control processor
303; a unit for processing the digital or analog video or 311 controls the spatial light modulator 307 to display the
image signal into red , green and blue (RGB ) data , formatting blue image data; this completes the display of one frame of
the RGB data into bitmap data and writing it into the RGB image, and the image perceived by the viewer is the
memory of the spatial light modulator 307 , thereby control- image B located at the position indicated by the dashed lines
ling the motion of the pixel mirrors of the spatial light 50 in FIG . 5 . When the color wheel 303 again rotates to a
modulator 307 ; and a unit for controlling the switching of position where the light spot is located in the transition
state of the pixel shifting device 308 . segment 001, the control processor 311 again controls the
The projection lenses 309 is used to receive the image excitation light source 301 to turn off, and controls the pixel
light that has passed through the pixel shifting device 308 shifting device 308 to perform a state switching operation ,
and project it onto the screen to form the image . 55 so that the pixel shifting device 308 is in the first state . The
The operation principle of the projection device of this above process is repeated to display a continuous image.
embodiment is described below . When the color wheel 303 rotates, the light beam of the
The video signal 310 is inputted to the control processor red , green and blue color light sequence is sequentially input
311 . The control processor 311 processes the video signal into the digitalmicromirror chip ; when the red light is input
310 into digital signal of the RGB format and writes the data 60 into the digital micromirror chip , somemirrors are turned to
into the spatial light modulator 307 . Initially, the pixel an “ on ” position based on the pixel position and intensity of
shifting device 308 is in the first state , and the control the red image data ; the green and blue light and image data
processor 311 controls the color wheel 303 to rotate . As operate the sameway. The lightbeam after reflection by the
shown in FIGS . 2 and 3 , when the drive device drives the digitalmicromirror chip is passed through the pixel shifting
color segments to moved into the illumination position of 65 device 308 , and is then projected onto the screen by the
the excitation light, the control processor 311 controls the projection lenses 309 . The human vision system integrates
excitation light source 301 to turn on and emit the excitation the red , green and blue information on the screen to perceive
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
11
a full color image. The image A is superimposed on the light source 301 during the time intervalwhen the transition
shifted image B , so that the perceived pixel size is smaller, segment 001 moves to pass the illumination position of the
and the perceived image is clearer, so as to increase the excitation light. In this case, during the time interval when
perceived spatial resolution of the image display . When the the pixel shifting device 308 performs state switching , no
resolution of the spatial light modulator 307 is 2K1K , by 5 light transmits through the pixel shifting device 308 , deg
using the above control, a display having the effect of a radation of contrast of the projected image is likewise
4K2K image is accomplished . prevented . Thus, the image perceived by the viewer is
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, the image A clearer, enhancing the visual experience of the viewer.
and the image B are not limited to shifting by one half of the
pixel size in the diagonal direction ; the image B may be 10 Second Embodiment
shifted by one half of the pixel size in the horizontal
direction , or the image B may be shifted by one half the pixel FIG . 6 schematically illustrates the structure of a projec
size in the vertical direction . tion device according to this embodiment. The projection
In one embodiment , the control processor 311 controls the device includes an excitation light source 601, an input lens
excitation light source 301 and the pixel shifting device 308 15 602 , a wavelength conversion device 603, a light shaping
to be synchronized , i. e ., in the time interval when the pixel device 605 , a spatial light modulator 607 , a pixel shifting
shifting device 308 is performing the switching operation , device 608 , projection lenses 609 and a control processor
the excitation light source 301 is turned off; outside of the 611 .
time interval when the pixel shifting device 308 is perform - One main difference between this embodiment and the
ing the switching operation , the excitation light source 301 20 first embodiment is that, the wavelength conversion device
is turned on . The timing of the excitation light source 301 603 of this embodiment is color wheel having a structure
and the pixel shifting device 308 can be set beforehand to shown in FIG . 7 , which includes a first transition segment
achieve the effect of the present invention . 001, a first red segment 002, a first green segment 003 , a first
In one embodiment, the control processor 311 controls the blue segment 004 , a second transition segment 005 , a second
color wheel 303, the excitation light source 301 and the pixel 25 red segment 006 , a second green segment 007, and a second
shifting device 308 to be synchronized , i.e ., when the color blue segment 008 . The first transition segment 001, the first
wheel 303 is rotated such that the color segments are moved red segment 002, the first green segment 003 , and the first
into the illumination position of the excitation light, the blue segment 004 are respectively located at locations
excitation light source 301 is turned on , and when the color symmetrical with respect to the central axis to the second
wheel 303 is rotated such that the transition segment 001 is 30 transition segment 005 , the second red segment 006 , the
moved into the illumination position of the excitation light, second green segment 007, and the second blue segment
the excitation light source 301 is turned off and the pixel 008 . This arrangement can achieve better color effects of the
shifting device 308 is controlled to perform the switching projected image .
operation . The timing of the color wheel 303, the excitation The operation principle of the projection device of this
light source 301 , and the pixel shifting device 308 can be set 35 embodiment is described below .
beforehand to achieve the effect of the present invention . The video signal 610 is inputted to the control processor
In one embodiment, the color wheel 303 is additionally 611 . The control processor 611 controls the color wheel 603
provided with a sensing device , so that when the transition to rotate . As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , initially , the pixel
segment is illuminated by the excitation light, the sensing shifting device 608 is in the first state, and when the drive
device generates a shifting feedback signal and transmits the 40 device drives the color segments to moved into the illumi
shifting feedback signal to the control processor 311 . When nation position of the excitation light, the control processor
the control processor 311 receives the shifting feedback 611 controls the excitation light source 601 to turn on and
signal, it controls the pixel shifting device 308 to perform a emit the excitation light. The excitation light is focused by
state switching and controls the excitation light source 301 the input lens 602 to be incident on the color wheel 603 , to
to turn off , so that during the time interval when the pixel 45 form a light spot on the color wheel 603 . When the color
shifting device 308 is performing the switching operation , wheel is rotated to a position where the light spot is located
no image light is incident to the pixel shifting device . in the first red segment 002 , the control processor 611
In this embodiment, when the transition segment 001 of controls the spatial light modulator 607 to display the red
the color wheel 303 moves and passes through the illumi- image data ; when the color wheel 603 is rotated to a position
nation position of the excitation light, the excitation light 50 where the light spot is located in the first green segment 003 ,
source 301 is turned off, which prevents the excitation light the control processor 611 controls the spatial lightmodulator
source 301 from continuously emitting and saves energy . In 607 to display the green image data ; and when the color
particular, for a projection device that employs DLP tech - wheel 603 is rotated to a position where the light spot is
nology, because the pixel shifting device has a relatively located in the first blue segment 004, the control processor
slow switching operation , the off time of the excitation light 55 611 controls the spatial light modulator 607 to display the
source 301 is relatively long, which can save more energy. blue image data ; this completes the display of one frame of
Meanwhile , because during the time interval when the RGB image. Because of the effect of persistence of vision ,
transition segment 001 of the color wheel 303 passes the viewer perceives the image A located at the position
through the illumination position of the excitation light, the indicated by the solid lines in FIG . 5 .
pixel shifting device 308 performs state switching , and no 60 Then , when the color wheel is rotated to a position where
light transmits through the pixel shifting device 308, deg - the light spot is located in the second transition segment 005 ,
radation of contrast of the projected image is prevented the control processor 611 controls the excitation light source
Thus , the image perceived by the viewer is clearer, enhanc 601 to turn off , controls the spatial lightmodulator 607 to be
ing the visual experience of the viewer. in a dark field , and controls the pixel shifting device 608 to
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, when the 65 perform a state switching operation , to switch the state of the
transition segment 001 of the color wheel 303 is made of an pixel shifting device 608 to the second state . Thus, in this
opaque material, it is not necessary to turn off the excitation state, the image formed by the projected light after passing
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
13 14
through the pixel shifting device 608, as compared to the segment 001, a red segment 002 , a green segment 003 and
image A , is shifted by one half the pixel size in the diagonal a blue segment 004 ; each color segment is a part of a ring
direction . By setting the angular range of the second tran - shaped band , and the multiple segments are arranged con
sition segment 005 on the color wheel and the switching centrically and distributed in the radial direction . The tran
speed of the pixel shifting device 608 , it is ensured that when 5 sition segment 001 is a fan shaped region that extends
the shifting operation of the pixel shifting device 608 is radially across all of the ring shaped bands , so that each
completed , the color wheel just rotates to a position where color segment is a ring shaped band with a notch . Corre
the illumination position is located in the second red seg 5 ans
spondingly , the excitation light source emits three indepen
ment 006 . Likewise , by repeating the above process , when dent excitation light beams, which are focused by focusing
the color wheel 603 is rotated to a position where the light 10 lenses ont
lenses onto the color wheel forming three light spots respec
spot is located in the second red segment 006 , the control tively located within the three color segments . The three
processor 611 controls the spatial light modulator 607 to color segments respectively absorb the corresponding exci
display the red image data ; when the color wheel 603 is tation light to generate three beams of converted light, i. e .,
rotated to a position where the light spot is located in the
second green segment 007, the control processor 611 con - 1515 verted
red converted light, green converted light and blue con
light.
trols the spatial light modulator 607 to display the green
image data ; and when the color wheel 603 is rotated to a The three converted light beams are respectively modu
position where the light spot is located in the blue segment lated by the spatial light modulator unit to form three
008 , the control processor 611 controls the spatial light projection light beams, which are combined by a light
modulator 607 to display the blue image data ; this completes 20 combination device to obtain a mixed projection light
the display of one frame of RGB image, and the image including red , green and blue components . The mixed pro
perceived by the viewer is the image B located at the jection light is passed through the pixel shifting device and
position indicated by the dashed lines in FIG . 5 . This projected by the projection lenses to form an image .
completes the display of a 4K2K image . Alternatively , the three beams of converted light may be
The image A and the shifted image B are sequentially 25 combined by a light combination device first to form a
projected by the projection lenses 309 onto the screen , so mixed converted light beam including red , green and blue
that as perceived by the viewer, the image A and the image components, and the mixed converted light is modulated by
B are superimposed , which achieves the effect of a clearer the spatial light modulator to form a projection light. The
image for the viewer. projection light is passed through the pixel shifting device
The color wheel 603 continues to rotate to a position 30 and projected by the projection lenses to form an image .
where the light spot is located in the first transition segment Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the working
001, the control processor 611 controls the excitation light principles of the projection device employing the ring
source 601 to turn off, controls the spatial light modulator shaped color wheel of this embodiment are similar to those
607 to be in a dark field , and controls the pixel shifting of the first and second embodiments , and detailed descrip
device 608 to perform a state switching operation , to switch 35 tions are omitted here . Briefly, when the light spots of the
the state of the pixel shifting device 608 to the first state . excitation lights are located in the transition segment 001,
When the shifting operation of the pixel shifting device 608 the pixel shifting device performs its state switching opera
is completed , the color wheel 603 just rotates to a position tion .
where the illumination position is located in the first red Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that for
segment 002. The process is repeated . As a result , the viewer 40 single- chip , two-chip and three - chip projection systems,
perceives a clearer image continuously . their specific control schemes are designed based on the
In this embodiment, when the transition segment 001 of requirements of the projection system . For example , for a
the color wheel 603 moves and passes through the illumi- single - chip projection system , if the color wheel is one that
nation position of the excitation light, the excitation light includes a red , a green and a blue ring, then the excitation
source 601 is turned off, which prevents the excitation light 45 light sources corresponding to the red , green and blue rings
source 601 from continuously emitting and saves energy. In should be turned on at different times sequentially, so that
particular, for a projection device that employs DLP tech the wavelength conversion device sequentially outputs red ,
nology , because the pixel shifting device has a relatively green and blue lights in a time sequence . For a two- chip
slow switching operation , the off time of the excitation light system , the color wheelmay include a blue ring and a yellow
source is relatively long , which can save more energy . 50 ring , and the corresponding excitation light sources for the
Meanwhile , because during the time interval when the blue and yellow rings are turned on at different times
transition segment 001 of the color wheel 603 passes sequentially, so that the wavelength conversion device
through the illumination position of the excitation light, the sequentially outputs blue and yellow lights in a time
pixel shifting device 608 performs state switching , and no sequence . For a three -chip system , the color wheel may
light transmits through the pixel shifting device 608, deg - 55 include a red , a green and a blue ring , and the corresponding
radation of contrast of the projected image is prevented . three excitation light sources are turned on simultaneously ,
Thus, the image perceived by the viewer is clearer, enhanc such that the wavelength conversion device simultaneously
ing the visual experience of the viewer. outputs red , green and blue lights . These schemes are known
to those skilled in the art and will not be described in more
Third Embodiment 60 detail here .
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the projection Fourth Embodiment
device of various embodiments of the present invention may
use any other suitable types of color wheels, such as ring FIG . 9 schematically illustrates the structure of a projec
shaped wheel or gain type color wheels. FIG . 8 schemati - 65 tion device according to this embodiment. The projection
cally illustrates the structure of a ring shaped color wheel device includes an excitation light source 901 , an input lens
according to a third embodiment,which includes a transition 902 , a wavelength conversion device 903, a light shaping
 US 10 ,134,317 B2
15 16
device 905 , a spatial light modulator 907, a pixel shifting In one embodiment, the control processor 911 controls the
device 908, projection lenses 909 and a control processor color wheel 903 , the spatial light modulator 907 and the
911 . pixel shifting device 908 to be synchronized , i.e ., when the
The wavelength conversion device is a color wheel, color wheel 903 is rotated such that the color segments are
which includes a red segment, a green segment and a blue 5 moved into the illumination position of the excitation light,
segment arranged adjacent to each other in a predefined the spatial lightmodulator 907 is in a projecting state , and
sequence along a circumferential direction of the color when the color wheel 903 is rotated such that the transition
wheel. segment 001 is moved into the illumination position of the
The operation principle of the projection device of this excitation light, the spatial light modulator 907 is in a
embodiment is described below . 10 non- projecting state and the pixel shifting device 908 per
The video signal 910 is inputted to the control processor forms the switching operation . The timing of the color wheel
911 . The control processor 911 controls the color wheel 903 903, the spatial lightmodulator 907 , and the pixel shifting
to rotate . As shown in FIG . 9 , initially, the pixel shifting device 908 can be set beforehand to achieve the effect of the
device 908 is in the first state , and when the drive device present invention .
drives the color segments to moved into the illumination 15 In one embodiment, the color wheel 903 is additionally
position of the excitation light, the excitation light is focused provided with a sensing device , so that when the transition
by the input lens 902 to be incident on the color wheel 903 , segment is illuminated by the excitation light, the sensing
to form a light spot on the color wheel 903 . When the color device generates a shifting feedback signal and transmits the
wheel is rotated to a position where the light spot is located shifting feedback signal to the control processor 911 . When
in the red segment, the control processor 911 controls the 20 the control processor 911 receives the shifting feedback
spatial light modulator 907 to display the red image data ; signal, it controls the pixel shifting device 908 to perform a
when the color wheel 903 is rotated to a position where the state switching and controls the spatial light modulator 907
light spot is located in the green segment, the control to be in a dark field . Thus, during the time intervalwhen the
processor 911 controls the spatial light modulator 907 to pixel shifting device 908 is performing switching, because
display the green image data ; and when the color wheel 903 25 the spatial light modulator 907 in in a dark field , no image
is rotated to a position where the light spot is located in the light is incident to the pixel shifting device .
blue segment, the control processor 911 controls the spatial In this embodiment, because during the time interval
light modulator 907 to display the blue image data ; this when the transition segment of the color wheel 903 passes
completes the display of one frame of RGB image . Because through the illumination position of the excitation light, the
of the effect of persistence ofvision , the viewer perceives the 30 pixel shifting device 908 performs state switching, and since
image A located at the position indicated by the solid lines no light transmits through the pixel shifting device 908
in FIG . 5 . during this time interval, degradation of contrast of the
Then , when the color wheel 903 is rotated to a position projected image is prevented . Thus, the image perceived by
where the light spot is located in the transition segment, the the viewer is clearer , enhancing the visual experience of the
control processor controls the spatial lightmodulator 907 to 35 viewer .
be in a dark field , and controls the pixel shifting device 908 It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
to perform a state switching operation , to switch the state of modification and variations can be made in the projection
the pixel shifting device 908 to the second state . Thus, in this device and related method of the present invention without
state , the image formed by the projected light after passing departing from the spirit or scope of the invention . Thus, it
through the pixel shifting device 908 , as compared to the 40 is intended that the present invention cover modifications
image A , is shifted by one half of the pixel size in the and variations that come within the scope of the appended
diagonal direction . Here , dark field refers to an operation of claims and their equivalents .
the DMD where the DMD reflects the input light, so that the What is claimed is :
reflected lightwill not enter the pixel shifting device and the 1 . A projection device, comprising :
projection lenses , i.e ., the DMD is in a non - projecting state . 45 an image light generating device , for generating an image
By setting the angular range of the transition segment on the light for forming a projected image;
color wheel and the switching speed of the pixel shifting a pixel shifting device , disposed on a transmission path of
device 908 , it is ensured that when the shifting operation of the image light generated by the image light generating
the pixel shifting device 908 is completed , the color wheel device , the pixel shifting device being configured to
just rotates to a position where the light spot is located in the 50 switch its state between a first state and a second state ,
red segment. The above process is repeated . wherein a first projected image formed after the image
The image A and the shifted image B are sequentially light passes through the pixel shifting device when the
projected by the projection lenses 909 onto the screen , so pixel shifting device is in the first state and a second
that as perceived by the viewer, the image A and the image projected image formed after the image light passes
B are superimposed , which achieves the effect of a clearer 55 through the pixel shifting device when the pixel shift
image for the viewer. ing device is in the second state are shifted with respect
In one embodiment, the control processor 911 controls the to each other ; and
spatial lightmodulator 907 and the pixel shifting device 308 a control processor, respectively coupled to the image
to be synchronized , i.e ., in the time interval when the pixel light generating device and the pixel shifting device ,
shifting device 308 is performing the switching operation , 60 wherein the control processor controls the pixel shifting
the spatial light modulator 907 is in a non - projecting state ; device to perform a switching of state to switch
outside of the time interval when the pixel shifting device between the first state and the second state , and during
308 is performing the switching operation , the spatial light a time interval when the pixel shifting device performs
modulator 907 is in a projecting state . The timing of the the switching of state , controls the image light gener
spatial lightmodulator 907 and the pixel shifting device 308 65 ating device to generate no image light.
can be set beforehand to achieve the effect of the present 2 . The projection device of claim 1 , wherein the image
invention . light generating device comprises:
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
17 18
a light generating device for generating a projection light; segments to move to pass the illumination position of
and the light generated by the light source, the control
a spatial lightmodulator, for receiving the projection light processor controls the spatial lightmodulator to be in a
generated by the light generating device, and modulat projecting state ;
ing the projection light based on input image signal to 5 orwherein the control processor is further coupled to the
output the image light, lightsource , and wherein during the time interval when
wherein the control processor controls the spatial light the drive device drives the transition segment to move
modulator based on the input image signal to modulate to pass the illumination position of the light generated
the projection light. by the light source , the control processor controls the
3 . The projection device of claim 2 , wherein the spatial 10 light source to be off, and during a time interval when
light modulator is a digital micromirror device or a Liquid the drive device drives the color segments to move to
Crystal On Silicon device . pass the illumination position of the light generated by
4 . The projection device of claim 2 , wherein during the the light source , the control processor controls light
time interval when the pixel shifting device performs the source to be on ;
switching of state , the control processor controls the spatial 15
light modulator to be in a non -projecting state , or controls or wherein the transition segment of the color light
the light generating device to generate no light, whereby the generating device includes an opaque material.
image light generating device generates no image light. 9 . The projection device of claim 1, further comprising
5 . The projection device of claim 4 , wherein the light projection lenses for receiving the image light after it passes
generating device comprises : 20 through the pixel shifting device and projecting the image
a light source for generating a light; light onto a screen to form an image .
a color light generating device, including a plurality of 10 . A control system for a projection device, wherein the
color segments and a transition segment, wherein each projection device comprises:
color segment generates a projection light of a corre an image light generating device , for generating an image
sponding color when illuminated by the light generated 25 light for forming a projected image ;
by the light source; and a pixel shifting device , disposed on a transmission path of
a drive device , coupled to the color light generating the image light generated by the image light generating
device, for driving the light generating device to move device , the pixel shifting device being configured to
periodically relative to an illumination position of the switch its state between a first state and a second state,
light generated by the light source formed on the color 30 wherein a first projected image formed after the image
light generating device , wherein the color segments and light passes through the pixel shifting device when the
the transition segment of the color light generating
device are sequentially moved to pass the illumination pixel shifting device is in the first state and a second
position of the light generated by the light source projected image formed after the image light passes
according to a predefined order ; 35 through the pixel shifting device when the pixel shift
wherein the control processor is respectively coupled to ing device is in the second state are shifted with respect
the drive device , the spatial light modulator and the to each other;
pixel shifting device , for controlling a frequency of the the control system comprising :
periodic movement of the drive device , and for con a first unit for controlling the pixel shifting device to
trolling the pixel shifting device to perform the switch - 40 perform a switching of state to switch between the first
ing of state during a time intervalwhen the drive device state and the second state, and controlling the image
drives the transition segment to move to pass the light generating device to generate no image light
illumination position of the light generated by the light during a time interval when the pixel shifting device
source . performs the switching of state .
6 . The projection device of claim 5 , wherein an operation 45 11 . The system of claim 10 ,
of the drive device driving the transition segment to move to wherein the image light generating device comprises :
pass the illumination position of the light generated by the a light generating device for generating a projection light;
light source and an operation of the pixel shifting device and
switching its state are performed during a same time interval a spatial light modulator, for receiving the projection light
or during time intervals close to each other. 50 generated by the light generating device, and modulates
7 . The projection device of claim 6 , wherein the color the projection light based on input image signal to
light generating device further includes a sensing device , for output the image light,
generating a shifting feedback signal when the transition wherein the control system further comprises :
segment is illuminated by the light generated by the light a second unit , for controlling the spatial light modulator
source , and transmitting the shifting feedback signal to the 55 based on the input image signal to modulate the pro
control processor, wherein based on the shifting feedback jection light;
signal, the control processor controls the pixel shifting wherein during the time interval when the pixel shifting
device to perform the switching of state and controls the device performs the switching of state , the first unit
image light generating device to generate no image light on controls the spatial light modulator to be in a non
the pixel shifting device . 60 projecting state , or controls the light generating device
8 . The projection device of claim 5 , to generate no light, whereby the image light generat
wherein during the time interval when the drive device ing device generates no image light.
drives the transition segment to move to pass the 12 . The system device of claim 11 ,
illumination position of the light generated by the light wherein the light generating device comprises:
source , the control processor controls the spatial light 65 a light source for generating a light;
modulator to be in a non -projecting state , and during a a color light generating device , including a plurality of
time interval when the drive device drives the color color segments and a transition segment, wherein each
 US 10 , 134 ,317 B2
19 20
color segment generates a projection light of a corre light generated by the light source, the first unit controls
sponding color when illuminated by the light generated the spatial light modulator to be in a projecting state;
by the light source; and or wherein during the time interval when the drive device
a drive device , coupled to the color light generating drives the transition segment to move to pass the
device, for driving the light generating device to move 5 illumination position of the light generated by the light
periodically relative to an illumination position of the source , the first unit controls the light source to be off ,
light generated by the light source illuminating on the and during a time interval when the drive device drives
color light generating device , wherein the color seg the color segments to move to pass the illumination
ments and the transition segment of the color light position of the light generated by the light source , the
generating device are sequentially moved to pass the 10
illumination position of the light generated by the light first unit controls light source to be on .
source according to a predefined order; 15 . A projection control method , comprising:
wherein the control system further comprises: controlling a spatial lightmodulator based on input image
a third unit, for determining a frequency of the periodic signal to modulate an input light and output an image
movement of the drive device based on a frame rate of 15 light;
the display image, and for controlling the drive device passing the image light through a pixel shifting device to
to move periodically based on the frequency ; generate a projection light; and
wherein the first unit further controls the pixel shifting controlling the pixel shifting device to switch its state
device to perform the switching of state during a time between a first state and a second state, wherein a first
projected image formed after the image light passes
interval when the drive device drives the transition 20 through the pixel shifting device when the pixel shift
segment to move to pass the illumination position of
the light generated by the light source . ing device is in the first state and a second projected
13. The system of claim 12 , wherein an operation of the image formed after the image light passes through the
drive device driving the transition segment to move to pass pixel shifting device when the pixel shifting device is
the illumination position of the light generated by the light 25 in the second state are shifted with respect to each
source and an operation of the pixel shifting device switch other, and preventing the image light from passing
ing its state are performed during a same time interval or through the pixel shifting device during a time interval
during time intervals close to each other. when the pixel shifting device performs the switching
14 . The system device of claim 12 , of state
wherein during the time interval when the drive device 30 16 . The method of claim 15 ,
drives the transition segment to move to pass the wherein preventing the image light from passing through
illumination position of the light generated by the light the pixel shifting device includes :
source ,the first unit controls the spatial lightmodulator controlling the spatial light modulator to be in a non
to be in a non - projecting state , and during a time projecting state ; or
interval when the drive device drives the color seg . 35. controlling the input light to turn off.
ments to move to pass the illumination position of the * * * *